I’ve always had a love for fashion and designer items…but there’s one small problem—I’m frugal. My dream of owning a collection of designer bags doesn’t exactly align with my budget. I tend to be more practical than indulgent, often dismissing the joy that comes with owning expensive items because I struggle to justify their cost. If I’m going to splurge on a handbag, I want to make sure that when the novelty fades, I can recoup as much of its value as possible. (I guess that’s the entrepreneur in me!)

That’s when the idea struck—I could take the old and make it new again. I found a passion for making purposeful designer fashion by repurposing vintage bags! By drawing inspiration from modern styles, and transforming them into something fresh, unique, and timeless I can now enjoy some of the finer things in life!

Q&A About Repurposed Designer Bags

Are the pieces authentic?

Yes, I purchase authentic vintage items, often repurposing them into unique bags by adding hardware and straps. Occasionally, I’ll even incorporate authentic logos to enhance the design. While some of the hardware, like straps or buckles, may not always be original, I carefully select high-quality pieces with finishes that closely mimic the authentic look.

Do the items contain serial numbers?

Sometimes. This can be a bit tricky. Depending on the age and brand of the vintage piece, not all items will have serial numbers. The condition of the piece can also affect whether a code is legible. However, the absence of a serial number doesn’t necessarily undermine its authenticity—it just makes things a bit more confusing for the consumer. I always ensure I purchase from reputable dealers, but it’s important to understand that authenticity isn’t always 100% clear-cut.

Can I resell a repurposed bag?

Yes and no. It depends on the platform you choose to sell on. In my experience, platforms like Poshmark and Mercari can be challenging because the authenticity verification systems they use often don’t recognize repurposed designs. Even though the bag itself is authentic, these platforms may flag it as counterfeit. While I have successfully sold a few on these sites, it can be hit or miss.

Is the quality guaranteed?

Yes and no. Since the bag is vintage, has been altered, and is intended for daily use, I can only guarantee the craftsmanship of my modifications. According to a case by case basis, if any issues arise with the alterations within three weeks of purchase, I will gladly address them.