How to choose your first luxury bag?

Buying your first luxury bag is often a defining moment. A mixture of emotion, pride and questioning. Whether it's to treat yourself, mark a milestone or invest in a timeless piece, this first purchase deserves thoughtful consideration. Here are our tips for choosing your first luxury bag.

1. Define your budget

Above all, set a realistic budget. Luxury bags can range from a few hundred to several thousand euros. By defining a range, you can avoid disappointment and steer your search towards houses you can afford.

2. Choose an iconic home

For a first purchase, it's best to turn to a well-known brand: Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Saint Laurent, Céline... These brands have a history, know-how and an attractive resale value if one day you want to make a change.

Here are a few emblematic models with their approximate prices (new or vintage):

• Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 or Neverfull MM  from €1,300

• 

  Chanel Timeless vintage (medium) from €3,000 on the second-hand market

• Saint Laurent Day Bag Small Approximately €2,700

• Hermès Kelly or Birkin (if you're lucky!) Between €9,000 and €12,000 depending on leather and finish.
   

3. Explore more accessible but promising brands

If you're on a tighter budget, or if you'd like to start slowly, there are more affordable brands that are gradually making their way into the world of luxury.

For example:

• Polène: between €320 and €500, depending on the model. Their bestseller, the Numéro Un Nano, costs €390.

• DeMellier: from €300 to €600. The Mini Venice or the Montreal are sure-fire performers.

• Wandler, Little Liffner, Staud: between €250 and €600, with cutting-edge premium positioning.

These brands offer a great gateway into the world of luxury, with refined, durable pieces with a strong identity.

4. Opt for a timeless model

A luxury bag is more than an accessory: it's a piece of wardrobe that will accompany you for years to come. For your first purchase, choose an emblematic model that's easy to wear every day.

As well as being aesthetically pleasing, these models generally retain their resale value very well.

5. Choose a neutral color

While pop colors can be tempting, classic tones such as black, camel, beige, off-white or navy go more easily with all your outfits. These are also the most sought-after shades on the resale market.

6. Pay attention to the material

Leather is king in the world of luxury. But not all leathers are created equal. Smooth leather is elegant but sensitive to scratches, while grained leather is more resistant.

Also take into account the weather in your area and your lifestyle: do you often sling your bag over your shoulder? Do you use public transport? Your daily life will influence your choice.

7. Store or second-hand?

Buying in an official boutique is a great experience, with personalized advice. It's also the assurance of a brand-new, authentic product.

Buying second-hand can be an excellent way to get a bargain. Be careful, however, to buy through reliable platforms such as Monogram Paris, Collector Square, or second-hand retailers (Gaby Paris, Denaria, etc.). Some rare bags may even increase in value over time.

8. Maintenance

A luxury bag is an investment. To keep it beautiful, supple and radiant, it's essential to use appropriate, natural products that respect the material without damaging it.

At Luxury Care, we've designed specific care products for top-of-the-range leathers: moisturizers, cleaners, waterproofers... Everything you need to protect your bag day after day.

In a nutshell

How to choose your first luxury bag:

• Set a budget

• Choose an iconic home

• Also explore more accessible emerging luxury brands

• Choose a timeless model

• Choose a neutral color

• Select the right material

• Buy in total security

• Look after it with care

This first purchase is often the beginning of a great love affair with beautiful pieces. Take your time, trust yourself... and enjoy every moment.