Growing up my grandmother always told me, “Quality over quantity.” Listening to this for most of my life, I knew that when I headed on my European adventure, I was going to be buying myself a quality piece and a lifelong investment. That purchase was my first Louis Vuitton bag.

Heading to Europe at the age of 19 alone was definitely something out of my comfort zone and spending almost 5k of my hard earned money gave me doubts. BUT it was the BEST decision of my life, and while I was there I definitely lived by Nani’s quote. We went to 9 countries (we being the 36 strangers I met while on my trip.) Greece, Italy, Germany, France, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Czech Republic and Spain. Leading up to my trip, I told my mom that I was saving up to buy my first designer piece and I was pretty sure it was going to be a Louie. Audrey Hepburn is one of my favs and I was totally inspired by her custom Speedy from Louis Vuitton. My next dream was to purchase it in Paris at the Champs-Élysées, but I decided to purchase it at the Louis Vuitton in Rome due to the tax I would get back.

The experience of purchasing my bag is something I will cherish forever. I had no idea what style I wanted, but I knew I wanted classic monogram canvas and something that could be worn as a crossbody. After trying on probably 15 different styles, I ended up going with the Turenne (which is no longer available.) I loved the style of the iconic Speedy, but that it had its own twist. I fell in love with it 4 years ago and I still love it now. Because the pricing was so good, I also bought myself a matching Zippy Wallet, (because why not) which I still use every single day. The sales rep at the store was amazing and made the experience so special. She bought out glasses of champagne for each of my girlfriends and me and sent me off in the most euphoric state. I would highly suggest to anyone looking to invest in a bag to do it. You will never regret something you really love and life is too short to not have things you love (even if they might be materialistic.) Below are my tips for purchasing a designer piece for the first time…

⌁ FIND A BRAND YOU REALLY LOVE AND STAND BEHIND

Get to know the brands history. Once you do, you can decide if making an investment in that specific brand is worth it for you.

⌁ PURCHASE A STYLE THAT WILL STAY IN STYLE

There are many ‘cool’ styles out there so pick something that is timeless for your first purchase. You will be able to wear it no matter what year and if you needed to sell, it will hold its value better than a trendy right now style.

⌁ BUDGET

I know that spending over $1,000 on a piece seems crazy, but if you really love it, you can justify it. Set a goal for the amount you want to spend and start saving. You will be surprised how much you can save when you don’t buy little things that won’t last you as long. Remember, quality over quantity.

⌁ GO TO THE STORE

This is a really big one, because (for me) experience is everything. I now have 10+ designer pieces and will continue to buy from brands that make me feel appreciated. As someone who works hard for every handbag, shoe and piece of jewelry I own, I believe that I am also paying for how that company makes me feel. It is a big deal that you are purchasing that designer piece you have dreamed about for so long, so go and get that full experience. My two best experiences have been at Louis Vuitton (Rome) and at the Cartier Mansion (Fifth Ave.)

I hope purchasing your first designer piece is a great experience!

xo, emily