Every handbag tells a story - and behind every collection is a journey filled with first purchases, dream bags, and lessons learned along the way. That’s what Pursepectives is all about: shining a spotlight on our community and the collectors who inspire us.
This month, we sat down with Emily, who started her journey with a pre-loved Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 and now treasures both Chanel and Hermès in her collection. From her most regretted sale to the Havre de Luxe product she can’t live without, here’s Emily’s story in her own words.
Name: Emily R.
Q: How old were you when you bought or received your first designer handbag?
I was 21, just after finishing university.
Q: Tell us about it! Was it love at first sight, or is there a story behind it?
It was a pre-loved Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 that I found online. I remember unboxing it and thinking, this is the start of something special. It felt like such a milestone purchase, and I still treasure it now.
Q: What's your most treasured handbag in your collection, and why does it hold a special place in your heart?
My Hermès Evelyne in Etoupe. It was my first Hermès bag, and it feels so practical yet chic. I reach for it constantly, and it always reminds me of the moment I finally walked out of the boutique with that orange bag in hand.
Q: What's the one bag on your wish list that you've been dreaming about adding to your collection?
Definitely a Kelly 28 in gold with gold hardware. It’s the ultimate classic in my eyes, and one I know I’ll work toward one day.
Q: Have you ever sold a bag and regretted it? If so, which one and why?
Yes - a Chanel GST in beige clair. At the time I thought it was too structured for me, but now I really regret it. It’s one of those pieces I’d love to have back.
Q: What's your go-to handbag for everyday use?
Right now, it’s my Chanel Coco Handle in black Caviar. It’s the perfect mix of practical and elegant.
Q: If you could only keep one bag from your collection, which one would it be and why?
My Chanel Classic Flap. It’s timeless, versatile, and the bag I know I’d never tire of.
Q: What's your favourite luxury brand?
Hermès - I love their craftsmanship and how every piece feels like a true work of art.
Q: Which Havre de Luxe product is your absolute favourite?
The Water & Stain Guard. I use it religiously on all my bags and shoes - it gives me peace of mind every time I leave the house.
Q: Lastly, do you have one piece of advice you'd share with our luxe-loving community about building or caring for a designer bag collection?
Don’t rush your collection - buy slowly, and only invest in pieces you truly love. And always, always protect your bags early with products designed for luxury leather. It makes such a difference over time.
A huge thank you to Emily for sharing her story with us - from her first pre-loved Speedy to her Hermès dreams. These are the stories that remind us handbags are so much more than accessories; they’re milestones, memories, and reflections of who we are.
Do you have a collection story to share? We’d love to hear it.
Keep an eye on our Instagram for the next Pursepectives call-out, and you could be featured in an upcoming edition. 💌
See you next month,
Team HDL x
