Nadia Minkoff might not be an accessory brand that comes easily to mind and for good reason too. Minkoff is what I like to call an underground designer, whose passion for accessories reads through ‘creative design’ rather than ‘words’. Put simply Minkoff uses accessories to tell a story and that story is one of wonder, dedication and passion. Minkoff’s sole aim is not to make ‘money’ but to inspire consumers to leave ‘fast fashion’ behind and embrace one of a kind accessories that are ‘inevitably timeless’. Despite being founded in 1988, the year which the ghastly ‘pouff’ was in fashion, the same iconic ‘traditional’ aesthetic still remains relevant today. Because lets face it we may indulge in nostalgic prints or buy a s**t load of bags from Skinnydip ( again me) but at heart we all want a neat classic handbag by our side, when we want to pretend that we have ‘life all figured out’. But I digress, having a classic handbag is all very well and done but when you buy poor quality imitations it can often mean you have to buy a classic handbag every season, defeating the concept of ‘slow fashion’.
Slow fashion is not only more sustainable but furthermore has less of an impact on the environment and is cost-effective. I remember reading Rachel Nicole’s post on ‘Investing In Fashion’ and I found myself nodding, as she stated that investing in ‘handbags’ , time pieces and jewellery was worth the extra pennies. Despite a higher price tag which may seem steep at the time, investing in a good quality handbag, especially in a classic style like Minkoff’s, is something which I know will last me a lifetime. Yet it might seem ironic that I am encouraging you to splurge the cash when I barely have a penny to my name but truth is, while I do use fast fashion for trends that come and go, the few essential staples like jewellery, bags and sunglasses, I will happily spend a little more on because I know it will last ( unlike Joni jeans!).
I am what I like to call a cheap ‘blogger’, clothes that I buy myself are often from Primark and I have no shame in admitting that at least 70% of my shoes and casual wear is good ol’ Primarni. But on occasion (and I do mean occasionally) I like to step outside of my cheap thrifting ways and indulge myself in luxurious fancies. Like that time when I brought a Kate Spade watch and it cost me half my rent because it looked like a little kitty or when I thought that Paul’s Boutique had the coolest bags (shame on you 15 year old self). Thus The Islington Cognac at £83,70 reduced from £167.40 seemed like a steal in comparison. It might be a bit more than I would normally pay for a handbag but as I grow older and look to cut down on expenditure, having a bag that is in a neutral colour means that not only is it cost-effective but it is also practical, due to its flexible styling nature. Admittedly most of my clothing is either burgundy, pink or blue so The Islington is a little different to my usual handbag preference but that is why I chose it. I believe when it comes to classic handbags colour is a huge factor and neutral tones like camel, beige and taupe look sophisticated and could still be considered timeless in twenty years time.
But that doesn’t explain why I think that Nadia’s handbags are for ‘life’. Asides from cost-effectiveness, the range of shapes i.e. bucket, clutch are nothing too zany, meaning they can be worn in both a casual manner or if your feeling a little more ‘dressy’ , while all bags are made from the finest quality materials that are made to last. I have lost count of the amount of times I have treated myself to a bag that is say a little more ‘upmarket’ compared to my usual choices and have been left disappointed as they became ‘scuffed’ quite quickly or failed to retain it shape after constant use. The saying goes that you should not wear clothes ‘too many times’ and the same rule supposedly applies to accessories too but I disagree. Surely the point of buying something that has a ‘steeper’ price tag is in the hope that price means quality and quality means longevity but that is not always the case. Take Levis, despite my love for their jeans I have found that after a few washes, the colour fades quickly and the denim can become ‘mottled’, which considering its price tag makes you question whether it is worth investing in their products.
Minkoff’s bags however reportedly do last, as she has implemented a specific ‘longetivity feature’ in each bag. Take the Cognac, made from the finest Italian grain leather, Nadia has attached four brass feet to protect the base from scuffing which is pretty darn genius. Because it is a bucket bag, the use of brass feet helps increase the bags longevity and prevent the bag from getting ruined after a short period of time. What’s more the bucket bag so synonymous with the 90’s, is on trend, practical and can fit at least a weekends stay worth of clothes ( Tried and Tested). But there is more to a bucket bag than just its ‘practicalities’, unlike the 90’s bucket bag that was an imitation of denim, Minkoff’s leather 2017 version is the 90’s more luxurious sister. In a way both bucket bags reflect the changing moods of the era’s they were created in. While the 90’s has consistently been associated with dodgy hair do’s, nostalgic fast-fashion prints and a s**t load of denim, 2017’s taste for both accessories and fashion seems to be a more classy affair. FYI not a diss against the 90’s as I do love 90’s fashion… well some of it at least!
In conclusion, it seems our accessory tastes have become more refined and minimalist bags seem to be coming into fashion. However, while sophistication is the order of the day, there is no way that I am letting go of my special diamond bag or any other ‘zany accessories’ just yet. After all I have created a world where fast fashion can pre-exist next to a few staple ‘slow season’ goods and they can all live happily ever after.
THE END
What are your thoughts on slow fashion and do you believe staple ‘pieces are worth investing in?
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I definitely think items like bags are worth investing in, along with good shoes too x
I tend to buy designer bags because they last. Often only get one once a year and don’t need to update as often! Most of my wardrobe is new look, primark etc i don’t see the point paying for that, and it means I can change what i wear and don’t have to feel guilty for getting bored of something faster…x
The bag is absolutely stunning….I would normally agree on having some key pieces that you have that are quality but a bag can cost me £5 for £500 and I still wreck it. I am just so heavy handed with all my bags x
Looking gorgeous Ana! Thank you for linking my post – I love Nadia Minkoff’s bags and they are such good quality! Definitely a good investment! I’m also so obsessed with those boots, they are incredible! xo
I think there are certain areas of your wardrobe that are worth investing in good quality pieces that will have longevity and prove to be timeless. Watches, handbags and key fashion pieces are things I believe we can and should invest a bit more in and buy classic styles that won’t burn out quickly like some others do. Your Minkoff bag is beautiful and will prove to be one of these timeless pieces.
I think certain style pieces are worth investing in. I remember I’d go through so many River Island bags at like £30-40 a go as they’d break but after investing in a Fossil I knew they’d last and in time save me money x
I have to admit that I do invest in my bags and tend to only buy designer pieces that will last years x
oh wow your gorgeous and so is that bag and boots , i need this is in my life x
This is such a lovely bag, I really like the design and the colour, which is not one I would usually opt for x
I’ve been on the hunt for an awesome new handbag-will definitely be checking out Nadia’s line!
This bag is really cute. I like buy purses and bags that will last. I agree spending a little more on bags that will last is a good thing. I like my accessories to last.
oh see now I love this moral that it’s not about a season or what’s in fashion at that time and its something you can use time and again and it will still look as if it’s just hit the catwalk it’s much more cost-effective
Loving the style of the bag. I’ve been wanting one of these for a while. The brass feet are a great idea to help make it last longer.
I’m really thinking that in a few years when my children are older and less likely to stand on my bags or leave crumbs in them, that I’d love to invest in a good bag. That is a beautiful colour and a great shape.
I love the creativity and uniqueness in your outfit selections. Your layering is very daring but I get it!
Love their ethos! I have had many cheap bags and they don’t last long. You definitely get what you pay for! x
The bag is gorgeous – and you always look fabulous! The lighting, the photography, the background….
I love the bag – having a young son my bag still has to fit in all manner of toys, snacks, a drink etc so I go for practicality over investment. Kaz x
im so distracted by those boots! bags are worth investing in. need to find the one that doesn’t go out of fashion easily
Such a gorgeous bag. I’m all about staples. I now spend more money on staple items and buy less. I think I’ve had my days of throw away fashion.
I am all about investment pieces and accessories now. Especially handbags and shoes. I spend a bit more on them so I can use them for longer. Love the colour of this bag.
That is a gorgeous bag, I do think great quality leather bags are worth the investment.
I hate it when a bag doesn`t retain it shape after constant use. The Minkoff bag looks so practical and long lasting. I haven`t heard of the brand before but I definitely check it out.
Love the bag, especially the colour! I always invest in good quality bags.
Ana this is one amazing looking bag, enjoyed reading this post and now I want to own my very own minkoff bag.
That bag is absolutely divine! I’ve never owned a bucket bag before but I really like that one! By the way, those boots are amazing too. Xx
I love this Minkoff bag. I’ve never had one yet, but I’m converted. Also those red boots are amazing.
I love the bags of Nadia Minkoff – such great designs and finishes 🙂
I have a similar bag actually that is my mum’s from around 20 years ago! It’ll be in style forever 🙂
I definitely think that some stable items are worth forking out for. Love the look of this bag!
I adore those boots! Also I’ve literally just brought some dungarees and over the knee boots. I love how I’m in style with you! You are like my fountain of fashion knowledge haha
Love the 1970s style with the overknees andthe hat! So cool! But all outfits look gorgeous! X
A fab bag that would go with anything, plus I am loving those boots honey, love how you’ve teamed it with the dungarees
That’s a really nice bag. I love the shape and color. Perfect size, not too big or too small.
I agree., but I didn’t always. I didn’t like spending a lot of money on accessories until I bought my first handbag. Now I understand the difference in quality and totally feel its a necessity to a modern woman’s wardrobe.
What a great bag. I like that it’s versatile and well made. The kind of item that will last many seasons. I also like that it has a flat base. It’s a huge pet peeve of mine when I put my bag down and it sags over. So I always look for those that have nice sturdy bottoms and will stay upright. I’m also appreciative that you talked about most of the things you buy coming from less expensive places and splurging on pieces where it really matters
Definitely worth investing in if it lasts. I hope to get something similar when my less glamorous days of carrying baby stuff around are over! LOVE those boots!