Dear PurseBop: How Do I Enjoy My Luxury Handbags Without Worrying About Their Future Investment Value?

As summer comes to an end and everyone is looking forward to fall, Dear PurseBop takes us beyond the simple pursuit of the next coveted handbag. We explore how to build a meaningful Hermès collection by examining the truly exceptional non-quota pieces, and how to embrace the newest Blazy chapter of Chanel while appreciating the enduring appeal of vintage. There is also a discussion about whether “investment value” should really influence our choices. Then we examine one of the most important parts of the Hermès journey, the relationship with your SA. And keep reading for a recap of all the new Hermès colors in production this fall.

The common theme here is that building a well curated collection is a deeply personal experience. The most memorable pieces are not necessarily the most expensive or trending bags. The truly coveted bags are those that reflect the collector’s taste, lifestyle, experiences, and path to acquire each one. Instead of focusing on how much the bag may or may not appreciate over time, isn’t it better to just purchase what you truly love?

Keep your questions coming to Dear PurseBop.

Dear PurseBop: How Do I Build a Well Curated Hermès Collection That Does Not Focus Only on Quota Bags?

To look beyond the Birkin and Kelly is how one truly appreciates the craftsmanship and legacy that Hermès was built on. While quota bags will always hold a special place in any Hermes collection, today’s seasoned collectors are increasingly discovering the appeal of the array of exceptional non-quota bags.

From unexpected silhouettes and distinctive craftsmanship to rare and highly coveted designs, these bags can bring personality, variety, and depth to a collection, without making the pursuit of quota bags the sole objective. We explore why the most exciting Hermes collections may be the ones that embrace both the iconic and unexpected.

Dear PurseBop: Should I Buy a Vintage Chanel or the Current Blazy Chanel Flap Bag?

Lately, vintage Chanel has experienced renewed attention for its softer leather, distinctive proportions, and iconic 24K gold-plated hardware. However, the new Blazy era is giving the Classic flap an entirely new energy with relaxed proportions, contemporary materials, and larger sizes creating excitement both in boutiques and on the resale market.

Dear PurseBop explores whether a collector should look backward to Chanel’s heritage or embrace its newest chapter. See all the advantages and potential pitfalls of both and then you will be better informed to make this important decision.

Image courtesy: @aboutchanelhere

Dear PurseBop: How Do I Enjoy My Luxury Bags Without Worrying About Their Future Investment Value?

Social media has increasingly tried to convince us that our luxury handbags are financial assets. With endless discussion about resale prices, investment bags, and which purchases will hold their value, it may feel like there is no room to simply enjoy using your beautiful new handbag.

Dear PurseBop explores how to build a carefully curated Hermes and Chanel collection that balances desirability and resale resilience while still staying true to your personal style, cost per wear, and the joy of actually carrying the bag you love. Because the best handbag investment may not be the one that commands the highest resale price, it may be the one you reach for again and again.

photo courtesy @karenzpurses

Dear PurseBop: What is the Most Respectful and Productive Way to Work With a New Hermès SA?

Starting a relationship with a new Sales Associate, the temptation can be to treat every purchase, appointment, and conversation as part of a strategy to secure a quota bag. But the strongest SA relationships are developed through trust, patience, genuine enthusiasm, and, most importantly, allowing your SA to understand your personal taste and lifestyle.

Dear PurseBop explains what to share with your SA, how to approach your purchase history, and navigate the new U.S. wishlist system. The goal is to let the Birkin become part of the relationship, not to just spend your way to the finish line.

photo courtesy @nino on Rednote

Dear PurseBop: What Are the Hermès New Colors for Fall/Winter 2026?

Hermes seems to be having a colorful fall season. From vivid purple, to bright apple green, soft pastels, and unexpected new neutrals, the second half of 2026 is bringing a surprisingly fresh and joyful palette to Hermes bags and small leather goods.

Fall and winter usually usher in deeper, more muted shades, this season is taking a decidedly brighter turn. Several new colors appear while a handful of beloved shades are making a return. Dear PurseBop takes a closer look at the newest Hermes colors of 2026 and the shades to watch for this fall and winter.