Splurge vs Steal

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Almost every single international style blogger has been rocking a variation of the Chloé Drew handbag and isn't gorgeous? While I was in New York last month, I thought I'd pop my head into good 'ol Bergdorff Goodman and peruse the designer handbags. It felt oh-so-good being the presence of Chanel, Balenciaga, Prada and Chloé  to name a few. And I made a list of 'investment' pieces that I'd love to own - but to be honest, the Chloé didn't make my list. At around $1450 (roughly R17 000), it is pricey for a trendy and rather impractical bag. It is tiny, so your standard wallet, smartphone and sunnies are going to have a hard time squeezing in - and thats before makeup, keys and whatever else us girls travel with on the daily.

So while it is incredibly beautiful, its really not a day-to-day bag and you'd only really use it for a night out or event. So instead of R17 000, I spent R299. Oh yes, under 2% of the designer price! This Riley bag from Superbalist caught my eye the other day, shortly after I landed, and I couldn't help but notice how similar it was to the Drew. So wisely, I snapped it up for myself. I think you should too.

Steal vs Splurge

Every girl would love a little Kate Spade classic like their Emerson handbag, and I am honestly toying with the idea of tossing caution to the wind, along with my savings, and buying one next week while we’re on holiday. I love their bright colours and structured silhouette. But given I’m busy launching a women's finance blog (watch this space!), I need to keep it real and think practically. Managing a fashion blog along with a women’s finance blog isn’t going to be an easy line to tread, because as much as my heart wants to shop, and tell you to do the same, my head is reminding me of my goals in terms of savings a for travel, future business and home plans and of course, retirement. And while its not as much fun as shopping, I’ll certainly be encouraging you guys to read up and be smart too. Its all about balance when you’re aspiring to live le good life I guess..

So if you’ve got the budget for the Kate Spade (at around R5000), lucky you. But if you’re looking for a dead ringer, in a great quality leather, Erato has the perfect substitute for a third of the price.