Starting your luxury designer handbag collection can be such a daunting process. There are so many factors to consider including whether or not to even go down this road on your journey to living your best life. For most, once they have finally decided they wish to proceed on this path, a next set of obstacles presents itself: Where to start? Which bag to chose?Which brand to go with? When and where to get it? Of course, the ultimate decision will be up to you but let me present you with what I think is an easy option. I strongly believe that Saint Laurent (formerly Yves Saint Laurent or YSL) is the best brand for first time designer handbag purchasers and here are 5 reasons why:
Firstly, YSL offers a vast array of handbags for purchase. At 60 years old (in 2022) YSL is considered relatively young in comparison to other well known luxury handbag designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel and Hermes (all of which are over 100 years old). Ironically, in their earliest days YSL did not prioritize their handbag offerings as much as their clothing and jewelry lines. Their clothing designers would conceptualize bag designs, choose unique materials and outsource the actual production of the bags. This was in complete contrast to the better known fashion houses which would often base their entire collections around a single bag and make them in house. Despite this, YSL has managed to consistently deliver such a wide variety of captivating, versatile and unique styles of handbags that appeal to virtually every demographic. If you want a look of youth and edginess their Astro shoulder bag, Round Camera bag, Vintage Denim Puffer bag or any of their shearling or fringe bags would entice you. Say you prefer a look of class and elegance, consider their Le Fermoir, Sac du Jour, Manhattan and Cassandra lines. For every style or aesthetic you can think of, Saint Laurent has the bag for you.
Many people want to get into luxury designer fashion to be a part of a community. They may want to be admired for being on trend and with the times. There are others who wish to be categorized as elegant and timeless. You may even be someone who wants to be classed as bold and eccentric. Perhaps you are like me of the eclectic type -having a broad range of interests and wanting to remain true to that nature all while indulging in luxury. The noticeable yet subtle YSL logo, even as monogram, hails this sense of community and belonging no matter what style of bag you prefer. As popular as the brand is, it somehow has managed to elude the descriptions of basic or common. Wearing a YSL bag tells the story of a person who is confident in their style and individuality but belongs to a community of people who appreciate and are worthy of the finer things in life. This a second reason to make a YSL bag your first designer bag purchase.
The third and most important reason I believe a YSL bag should be first on your wishlist is that it is good value for money. I have watched and read countless reviews on YSL bags of all different types and I rarely ever hear anyone complaining that they are of poor value. In fact, YSL bags often make it into the top 5 lists of a designer handbag lover's "value for money bags". Compared to other popular luxury fashion brands, Saint Laurent has found that sweet spot with pricing. Luxury designer brands are usually inaccessible to the masses due to exorbitantly high prices, making them exclusive and much sought after. However, the prices of YSL bags confidently utter that they are indeed opulent pieces but that you are worthy of owning such a piece. The psychology of it is that the price is high enough for you to aspire to it, yet attainable enough for you to actually pull the trigger and get it.
Fourthly, YSL is a very accessible and inclusive brand. At current, the brand showcases and sells its pieces on a very user friendly website. This is a rare practice among luxury designers who often limit knowledge of and access to their products as another method of maintaining their exclusivity and appeal. In spite of that, Saint Laurent decided to allow this unfettered approach to bag purchases which has strongly worked in their favor. Additionally, there are over 200 brick and mortar stores across the world in which YSL handbags are sold. These include YSL stand alone boutiques, high end department store boutiques, as well as outlet stores. While I must admit that I do not hear many singing praises of Saint Laurent's customer service, I also do not hear too many negative reports. Sales associates that I interacted with were very welcoming, courteous and patient with me, especially when I was making my first purchase. I was not dressed up, carrying any designer items nor announcing that I planned to make any purchase that day. Yet, I was sincerely greeted then given enough time and space to explore the boutique and its offerings. The SAs were very knowledgeable and freely shared information about the different items as I asked questions. For a first timer who may be fearful, uncertain or not fully convinced of making a purchase, this inclusivity is a vital determinant in committing to the journey. I have also noticed that the there is no clear demographic of persons who visit YSL stores or sport their bags, which to me screams inclusivity.
The fifth and final reason is simple- you will love the bag! Once you have decided on the style, material and design of bag that will best fulfill your desires, the next step is to find that perfect one! The bag of your dreams! As mentioned in the first point, YSL most likely has that bag for you. Despite not proffering the highest prices, YSL still produces bags of quality on par with those of the most notable ateliers in the world including the likes of Delvaux, Hermes and Launer. Saint Laurent's history includes a marked interest in jewelry which is evident in the metal hardwares found on their bags. They are of impeccable quality. You will also love your YSL bag because up close and personal you'll discover that it is indeed a work of art. Even if it is a seemingly simple design you will find something unique about a YSL bag that makes your heart smile. Heart smiles are always good indicators that you have made the right choice that you will enjoy for years to come.
PARIS VII Flat Hobo Bag. Photo source: Saint Laurent Official Website
Due to my love of finding and sharing deals, I have one just for you- a bonus reason for making YSL bags your first designer bag purchase. Saint Laurent bags have good resale value. In the unlikely event that you dislike your YSL bag, have buyer's remorse or you have simply decided your preferences changed, you may opt to sell your item. Rest assured, once your YSL bag remains in good to excellent condition, you will most likely be able to recover its full retail price. Additionally, YSL does engage in the practice of occasional price increases; though not as often as other brands. This further strengthens resale values making it possible to actually sell your pre-loved YSL bag at a premium. Despite this, as a shopper you can find great deals on authentic, pre-owned YSL bags on various resale websites.
If you did not know where to start or which brand to consider as your first luxury handbag purchase, I hope I have convinced you to take a closer look at Saint Laurent. If you are not new to the world of designer bags, I hope I have re-ignited an interest into the brand that is enamored by true fashion lovers.
Stay Fashionably Well,
The Fashion Findess
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