Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Handbag Day


Martha Stewart had a “handbag” episode all about handbags. I have to say, only Martha can turn an episode about handbags into something very practical. According to Martha, a great handbag should be considered an investment. Her greatest investment was her infamous Hermes Birkin Bag, which she toted to court. The amazing thing about it was that she has owned that bag for 17 years, and it looked absolutely perfect. It was clean and still looked brand new. A quality, well-made bag can be absolutely worth its price if it is taken cared of and stored properly. It’s all about price per wear! Of course, she showed us how she cleans and stores all her bags to keep them looking new. I just adore Martha Stewart and how just oh so perfect she does things in the kitchen. I don’t care that she can’t read cue cards at all; I mean, there is something admirable about a woman who made an empire around home-making.
Some great investment bags (featured on the show and also my faves):

Derek Lam - very unique shape
Zac Posen - I heart Zac Posen



Coach - creamy leather, understated hardware. Classic Coach.


Bulga - a multi-pocket bag. Six outside pockets and three inside pockets.

Mulberry - a cross between a briefcase and a purse.

Rafe Totengo - Latin Quarter bag. I love the hardware detailing.



Martha’s tips for keeping your investment handbags looking new:
(you can also view the tips on marthastewart.com)

Cleaning Your Handbag How-To
1. Empty all pockets and shake gently to remove dust and debris.
2. Clean interior of bag by gently pulling it inside out and using a lint roller. If you can't pull out the lining of your handbag, you can use the fabric brush attachment on your vacuum.
3. Clean exterior of leather bag with alcohol free baby wipes.

Tips for Extending the Life of Your Handbag
1. If there is a big stain, don't try to clean it yourself. Take it to a leather expert as soon as possible.
2. If your handbag does not have "feet" on the bottom, you can have them added by a leather-care expert. Feet protect the bottom of the bag from scratches and dirt.

Tips for Keeping the Interior Clean
1. Never put a pen in your purse without a cap on it.
2. Keep makeup in a separate makeup bag.

Tips for Handbag Storage
1. Handbags can be hung on a hook for a few days, but any longer puts too much strain on the straps.
2. Fill handbags loosely with balls of tissue paper to help keep the shape; stiff bags don't need this.
3. Put handbag in the storage bag it came with. If it didn't come with a roomy drawstring sack then make one out of cotton or use a pillow case.
4. Ideally, handbags would be stored in cubbies built into your closet, but you can also store them in baskets or bins made of plastic-coated wire. Stand them upright or lay them down and don't crowd them. They need to breathe, so don't put a tight-fitting lid on.

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