Owning a designer bag is most girls’ dream. It certainly is mine. I have exactly one designer bag in my closet, which is this Phillip Lim satchel bag worn here. I wouldn’t call it my dream designer bag though. That would be a Chanel, Saint Laurent, or a Céline, and I’m still working towards that. Recently I have found Trendlee, an online consignment store that I think will be where my first Chanel comes from. I’m excited to share with you this beautiful pink Saint Laurent bag that Trendlee kindly lent to me for a review, as well as other tips and tricks I’ve collected from purchasing my Phillip Lim. I hope this will help you closer to the dream of owning your first designer bag (or your 10th one).
I also have a coupon code for you to save 5% on Trendlee. Use code LILYROSE at checkout!
Always look for the bag condition
Any consignment store should always include a short description of the bag’s condition. Trendlee does a great job of showing that information on a separate line. For example, this bag I have here is listed as
Condition: Great. Light scuffs on exterior and handles, scratches on hardware.
Personally, since I take photos of my outfits for the blog, I would look for Great or Excellent in a bag. But sometimes Very good or Good are just as great. I love the idea of purchasing a second hand designer bag because the bag can have one little scratch on the inside, which nobody will see except you, and the price is lowered by a couple hundreds dollars. So why not shop here, you don’t have to pay full price but you get an almost perfect bag!
Always check for flaws in the pictures
Because the bags from Trendlee are pre-owned, they will have flaws. After you read the description of the bag’s condition to get an idea of where the flaws are, use the photos (and zoom in) to inspect them. Make sure you’ll be able to live with those flaws. For example: a scratch on the inside of the bag is more acceptable than a scratch on the designer label. Make sure you inspect them thoroughly because even though Trendlee allows you to return an item no questions asked, you still have to pay for return shipping, which will bring us to the next tip.
Always check for a Return policy
Generally you should always check for a return policy for any online store. You need to make sure you are able to return a purchase should you change your mind or the item looks different in person. Especially if it’s a big purchase worth a couple of thousands of dollars, a return policy is a must! Trendlee offers a no questions asked return policy as long as you contact them within 2 days of receiving your bag. I believe they will deduct a shipping fee from your refund, depending on your item.
Popular colors won’t last
There is one bag that has been on my wish list for the longest time: the Prada Saffiano Double Tote bag, color Caramel/Rosso, read tan color with red suede lining inside. Of course I wouldn’t want to pay the full price for it, so I’ve been keeping an eye on all the consignment stores I know of. And I found it! It was on Trendlee here, but I chickened out. The next day I came back to look at it, it was sold!
Moral of the story: I’m not saying tan bags are the most popular, but neutrals are typically more desired than other colors. People want to invest in a designer bag that goes well with any outfit, smart. But at the same time, that means those black, white, tan or grey bags won’t last long, especially if they’re in above good conditions! So when you see one you like, decide quick.
There are financing options
I get it, we’re not the Jenners who can afford to buy a Hermes every couple weeks. So to purchase a $3,000 bag, it is insane to pay it all at once with a debit or even a credit card. A lot of consignment stores offer financing options to make it more possible to own your dream bag. Trendlee teams up with Affirm to offer easy financing. You can split the cost into 3, 6, 9 or 12 month payments that makes it easier on the wallet. I do want to inform my readers, though, to be very cautious of this option. It is a credit loan that affects your credit score. And there is an interest rate you have to pay just like any other loan. So make sure you know what you’re doing before going this route.
The best way in my opinion is to save up for your dream bag first by setting aside a small amount each week or each month. And then purchase the bag when you reach your savings goal. That way it doesn’t affect your credit score, you don’t have to pay interest and it doesn’t hurt anything if you miss a payment.
Sign up for newsletter for coupon code
Trendlee has a newsletter that you can subscribe to to receive special promotions. I’ve seen coupon codes for up to a couple hundreds off your purchase, which helps a ton. I know it’s not much compared to a couple grand you’ll be spending, but hey it’s something. And don’t forget, readers of With Love Lily Rose can get 5% off too if you use code LILYROSE at checkout!
I understand a designer bag is a luxury that not all of us will justify purchasing, and that’s okay. But if you’re reading this post, it means you already know you want one. You already had that conversation with yourself about why and how much you “need” it. So I just wanted to provide you with some tips on your purchase and hope they help. Leave a comment below and share with me which designer bag is your dream handbag, I’d love to know!
Designer Handbag Saint Laurent Trendlee YSL
You look amazing, Lily! I love that pink bag so much and your rockstuds are super cute!
xo, Jennifer
http://www.publicistinpearls.com
This bag is amazing! I adore the color and it really pops off your chic look! Thanks for sharing Trendlee. I need to check it out soon. 🙂
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thank you for stopping by. I do really love the color of this bag, it’s amazing isn’t it 🙂
I hadn’t previously heard of Trendlee but am going to click over and check out what they have right now! I’d love to own more designer handbags as well but brand new ones just aren’t feasible right now. A preowned option would be absolutely perfect! This Saint Laurent is STUNNING!
So pretty! I love your hair like this! Never hear about Trendlee but looks super nice! Have a nice weekend!
http://violettedaily.com
Yes you should check them out, they are a very nice service ?
Wonderful look!
Have a nice week-end!
Gil Zetbase
http://gilzetbase.com/
I love all of your tips! You are so thorough and this is definitely helpful! Love how you styled the bag!
Tina
http://www.justatinabit.com
I’ve never bought a bag via Trendlee but I’ve always heard about it. I will definitively check it out if I have some money aside to buy my next designer handbag. Thank you so much for sharing those tips 🙂
xx, Carmen – http://www.carmitive.com
Such a cool bag! I love how classy it looks and the color is so fun! 😀
http://thewonderfashion.blogspot.com
I’m glad you like it. This is definitely my favorite color!
Trend lee seems to be a good option. I especially love to check for vintage bags in these online consignment stores. I never bought a designer bag online mainly because I’m scared to buy a fake. However I think these stores are getting better at double checking their products and assuring the authenticity.
Thanks for sharing!
xx
Aurelie | http://www.surface85.com
I have heard about this site but not tried it myself. Such a gorgeous bag and outfit!
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Thanks so much Amy for stopping by and for the lovely words!
Great tips for buying a designer bag! I’ve never heard of Trendlee but I will definitely check it out!
-Clarissa @ The View From Here
Your bag is absolutely gorgeous!!!
Jill
Jill D Blog
Chic outfit!
Have a nice week-end!
Gil Zetbase
http://gilzetbase.com/
Love this. Thanks for sharing.
xx Ohiamiht
Gorgeous outfit! x
You shared some great tips! I dream of having a Chanel bag too. Let’s hope I get one soon 🙂
Love your look and thanks for all the info.
Ivona from http://www.thesmokedetector.net
xoxo
That bright pink bag looks awesome on you Lily! And agree with you that most of us who invest in branded bags will want them to match with practically all outfits 😀
those are some amazing tips! Great look babe
http://www.kmeetsstyle.com
What this is so cool, what a great idea for a shop! I love your outfit too!
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
Such a lovely outfit, love the pop of pink in the bag! Xx
http://www.thefashionfolks.com
You look so pretty & buying second hand is a great option- defiantly have always loved a Hermes/Birkin or a Celine Bag!
~Katelyn
http://www.theyellowspectacles.com
A Celine is top on my wish list too. Thanks Katelyn for stopping by 🙂
I love your handbag. Such a great size and style.
Xo, Christianne
http://simplychristianne.com
Gorgeous bag! It’s certainly an investment owning a designer bag however you can notice the difference. My old Prada (may it rest in peace) lasted for seven years. It was great and the perfect fit, it was a shoulder bag but had a fair amount of space for all of my things.
I haven’t owned a high end designer bag since, however I think you can certainly get some great alternative less known designer bags and there are some amazing ones around!
I would only really invest in a bag if it was perfect, for me it’s more about the TLC of the bag than the name and i’m so picky about styles! Too many of them these days look like suitcases and are way too big 😉
Great post and wonderful tips, your styling is lovely and the shoes you’re wearing here are gorgeous!
Laura xo
http://www.shehearts.net
I loved your Phillip Lim bag, I call it a designer bag. I have some, and believe me, although many people want a Chanel, Chloe, etc, I really kind of prefer Nine West, Betty Barclay and Tom Tailor ones – so practical, not expensive, one can really “count on them” 🙂 But yes, a Chanel is always a Chanel, timeless. I loved your outfit and tips; the financing option is a good tip! Hope you have a nice week!
DenisesPlanet.com
Thanks Denise for your thought. I do love my Phillip Lim, it’s very practical, still very cute and much cheaper. I also got it from a second hand store so it was an even better deal. I have Nine West, Coach etc as well. But that’s right, Chanel is a classic and I feel like it’s something we can spoil ourselves with once or twice in our lives. If someone has more than that, they are very lucky few and we envy them hehe 🙂
I would love to own a dream designer bag. Love the color of this one with the rest of your look. Beautiful Lily!
http://fashionradi.blogspot.com
Love your post, Lily.
I really appreciated the tips you shared.
isabel
http://www.isabelalexander.us
That Caramel Prada bag with the Red lining is absolutely gorgeous! You must get it next time it comes in stock!
X
Anjelique
http://anjelique.com.au | snapchat: anjeliquetv
Oh, tell me about it. I’ve been searching for a pre-owned one <3
Gorgeous photos! I love what your wearing! Also, the bag is lovely. :
You look amazing and that bag is to die for! I love the bright colour!
xo
Siffat
http://icingandglitter.com
Great post dear 😉
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
I have a Deuter Bag though a cheaper model but it certainly helped get me through Asia last year. Good brand, I say. Very soon, I’ll be getting some Eagle Creek gear in the mail and based on their interactive and intuitive site, they seem to be a very good brand of bags to choose as well. Thanks for sharing this roundup of bags, either way. I’ll be sure to check out Osprey when I get a chance.
Great outfit. 🙂
P&P style ♡ ☯ ☮ — DIY — fashion — and more — ☮ ☯ ♡
Thanks for the Trendlee suggestion 🙂
I just came back from a Greek trip on the island of Mykonos where I found a cute little Vintage shop.
Think it was this one. But now, I have Trendlee to compare and find the best deal possible 🙂
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