Designer Handbags Over Highstreet

One thing that is a common factor when I work in retail is that my spending increases also. I guess many can relate to this problem and now that I'm in a luxury retail environment, I guess is a big factor to how I have changed my shopping habits.

Now I really see the investment and benefits of buying something designer instead of fast fashion. Everybody loves abit of shopping in Primark, New Look or H&M but now I've definitely cut down on what I will spend in stores such as those.

For example, I can outrightly say I will always go for a designer/higher end handbag now. The difference in quality is astounding. Sofar, this year I have invested in two Mulberry bags and one Alexander McQueen (hopefully will be adding Valentino to the list before the year is out, so definitely watch out on this space)! Granted, I give my current Italian-brand 'Coccinelle' handbag alot of abuse by overloading it and generally flinging it about; but I expected more of it when I purchased my second one. I was super careful with it on my first outing (as my other bag had ribbing that became damaged easily). Nevertheless, the ribbing came off completely at the bottom corners of the bag. Beyond horrified as the bag was around £250/300.

I've found the bags that I have purchased (which are designer) general wear and tear is not really an issue and that if treated well, should last for years to come. Granted, the price points are significantly higher but now I generally can justify it. I'd prefer if a bag which I rely heavily upon will last than having a disaster such as a strap to snap.

Most designer bags can be easily fixed when they are within warranty (always good to double check though as each designer/company differs with their policies).

August/September 2015

The past few months have been a regular rhythm of work interspersed with more work. It's all been good though and I feel as if I have settled into my retail job comfortably.

I started my degree placement mid-September with a local milliner and am enjoying putting my retail experience into practice with my degree placement. When deciding whether to do a degree placement or not I was somewhat torn - timewise and financially can it be worth it? I decided I thought it was after talking it through with several people. At the end of the day, experience in the work industry is expected and taking a whole year out to focus on that will help achieve that level of experience; alongside learning new skills.

Luckily, my placement is flexible timewise so I can work quite alot. Also, my placement is in Belfast City Centre (which I'm in every day) so is really helpful geographically. At the moment Grainne is still settling in to her new premise so even little tasks such as painting a piece of furntiture or sorting the stockroom can be a great help.