How can I determine the quality and craftsmanship of a handbag?

Our handbags go with us everywhere. Work, brunch, date night – they’re always by our sides and act as an extension of our personal sense of style. It isn’t just an additional accessory, it’s practical fashion 

Whether you’re a high-street lover or have invested in a designer bag, your handbag of choice needs to look good but also survive use after use so, how can you tell if you’re getting your money’s worth?

In this blog, we’re considering what makes a bag of any price point long-lasting and things to look out for when you’re buying.

What should you look out for when buying a handbag?

So, you’re on the hunt for a new bag – it could be an everyday pick or the perfect little going-out bag – but how do you know if you’re getting bang for your buck? 

Of course, you’ll be looking at the pricetag, if it’s easy to clean, and, even moreso, you’ll be rating each bag you see on how well it fits your aesthetic. Is it versatile, and will it work with multiple outfits in your wardrobe? Will it fit all of your essentials into it? 

After those initial thoughts, you should then focus on the quality. There are some easy-to-find indicators that will show you if a bag is worth your hard-earned money. 

The material 

Bags come in such a wide range of materials these days, it can be hard to tell what’s worth buying and what isn’t. For long-lasting quality, you can’t go wrong with authentic leather – which should come with some sort of authentication and a softer feel. 

If the bag is marked ‘full-grain’ or ‘top-grain’ leather, you’re in luck because this is the highest-quality hide you can get. Also, if you’re shopping vintage, these types of good-quality leathers will have a gorgeous patina look to them.  

For faux leather, you should look for a smooth, almost real texture that doesn’t feel like plastic. If it wrinkles a little when you fold the bag, you’re onto a winner. You should also avoid any strong, plastic smells. 

Canvas bags are also trending right now, so if you’re wanting one for yourself, look for a thicker fabric that doesn’t already have any loose seams. 

The lining

Moving on from the outer materials, the interior lining of a bag is also important. Visually, some designer pieces may have a unique pattern to add a luxe touch, but in general, you should be on the lookout for linings made from polyester or cotton – they’re strong and easier to clean.  

The hardware 

Hardware will include the zippers, clasps, closures, buckles and any other ‘metal’ detail on a bag. For many of us, those hardware details are what make a handbag, especially a designer one, special. We’re thinking Gucci’s piston closure on its Jackie bag or Coach’s recognisable ‘C’ turn-lock closure.

Stainless steel and brass are some of the most durable options, and they don’t tarnish as easily. Red flags will be flaking finishes, discolouration, and a zip/closure that’s already stiff. 

The craftsmanship

You can tell a lot about a handbag from its stitching. The tighter and more uniform the stitchwork, the better. There should also be reinforced stitching at stress points like the handles, making sure that the bag can withstand a lot of use. It may seem like a small detail, but one loose thread can cause a lot of damage to your favourite accessory. 

If a designer handbag (or elements of it) is handmade, there’s more of a guarantee that attention to detail has been put into how it was crafted, ensuring better quality. If it feels more special, it probably is. 

Are designer bags always better quality? 

With a lot of handbags, the reputation of the creator can precede them. We as consumers expect the crème de la crème when we buy high-end designer pieces. For the most part, designer bags will be made from higher-quality materials by artisans who know what they’re doing. They’re less likely to be mass-produced too. 

There are still some high-street handbags out there that will surprise you though, it’s just about assessing the craftsmanship before you buy – trust us, we’ve all been guilty of getting a fabulous-looking bag at a great price, taking it home and then realising it will only last a few uses. We all also have a bag at the back of our wardrobe that was maybe only £8 that might last through the apocalypse so take it case-by-case. 

Can I get a quality secondhand handbag?

Vintage and resale bags are actually some of the best quality you can get, and they’re a great way of getting a high-end handbag for a fraction of the cost. They’ve already survived one (or multiple) owners, so a secondhand handbag is a great shout.

If they’re designer or leather, similar to when new, make sure they come with authentication. 

If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe with a quality designer bag, Your Dream Bag may be just what you’re looking for.

With our handpicked selection of designer handbags and accessories and easy-to-enter competitions, getting your hands on your next fashion fave is just a few clicks away.