Purses are more than just functional items; they’re fashion statements, emotional mementos,
and sometimes even investment pieces. However, when your collection starts to spill out of the closet and into every available nook and cranny, it’s time to ask: how many purses are too many? Here’s a guide to help you declutter your handbag collection and keep only what truly adds value to your life.
1. Assess Your
Collection
Start by gathering all your purses in one place. Lay them out so you can see exactly how many you have. This visual can be a wake-up call. Take a moment to appreciate your collection, but also consider the practicality of keeping so many.
2. Categorize Your Purses
Divide your purses into categories such as everyday bags, evening clutches, travel bags, and sentimental pieces. This will help you see where you might have redundancies. For example, do you really need ten black clutches when you only attend formal events a few times a year?
3. Evaluate Usage
For each purse, ask yourself the following questions:
1. When was the last time I used this?
2. Does it match multiple outfits, or is it very specific?
3. Is it still in good condition, or is it worn out?
If you haven’t used a purse in over a year, it might be time to let it go.
4. Consider Your Lifestyle
Think about your current lifestyle and how it has changed.
Perhaps you no longer need that collection of business bags if you’ve transitioned to working from home. Or, if you’ve simplified your wardrobe, you might find that you don’t need as many statement pieces.
5. Set Limits
Decide on a
reasonable number of purses to keep. This number will vary for everyone, but a good starting point is to aim for a selection that covers all your needs without overwhelming your storage space. For example:
2-4 everyday bags
2-4 evening
clutches
1 travel bag
A couple of seasonal or statement pieces
6. Quality Over Quantity
Focus on keeping high-quality bags that are versatile and durable. A well-made purse can last for years and remain stylish. Investing in a few high-quality pieces can reduce the need for a large collection.
7. Sentimental Pieces
It’s okay to keep a purse or two for sentimental reasons, but be selective. Maybe keep the purse you carried on your wedding day, for example. These items can be stored away safely rather than taking up prime real estate in your everyday storage.
8. Organize What’s LeftOnce you’ve decided which purses to keep, organize them in a way that makes them easy to access and enjoy. Consider using shelf dividers, hooks, or clear storage boxes. Label boxes if needed, especially for seasonal or special occasion
bags. 9. Donate or Sell the Rest
For the purses you decide to part with, consider donating them to a charity or selling them. Many women’s shelters and organizations appreciate handbag donations. Alternatively, selling them online or at a
garage sale can give you a little extra cash to put toward other needs.
10. Maintain Your Collection
To prevent future purse clutter, adopt a one-in, one-out policy. Whenever you buy a new purse, let go of an old one. Regularly reassess
your collection to ensure it still meets your needs and lifestyle.
There’s no magic number for how many purses are too many—it’s all about what works for you and your lifestyle. By following these tips, you can create a curated collection of handbags that you love and actually use, freeing up space and reducing clutter in your
home.
