My Aldo Bags

It’s that time of year again – when I start craving ANOTHER expensive bag…so far, I have my heart set on either a Balenciaga First or a Marc Jacobs Large Single. I don’t know if/when I can justify getting either of them…but they are firmly on my dream wish list.

When I get these materialistic cravings, I try to focus on the things I already own. I previously posted about my designer handbag collection here (recently updated to include 3 more bags). Today I’m showing some of my inexpensive bags. I love Aldo bags because they are good quality, long lasting, light to carry and very reasonably priced. I baby my designer bags – use them on special occasions, never set them on the floor, etc. With these bags, they take a beating – and still look good. The synthetic material is easy to wipe clean (important when going out with kids in tow!) yet has a very good faux leather effect.

I first heard of Aldo bags in 2005. One of my work friends had a gorgeous chocolate leather bag – I thought it was a TOD’S bag. I was so surprised to hear that it was from Aldo. When I rushed there to purchase it (I opted for tan rather than chocolate brown) – it was on sale for £19. It’s not very photogenic – but it’s a great slouchy hobo style bag. This bag has been used and abused, but the stitching is as tight as ever (although the corners are a bit discoloured).

I also purchased this blue bag in 2005. I was drawn in by the boxy shape and beautiful colour. It doesn’t really appeal to me at the moment, but I’m sure I’ll fall in love with it again in the future. I remember this style was really popular when it came out – several of my friends bought it as well.

I bought this bag in Fall 2009 for around $35 (posted about it here). It’s very roomy, and I think the grey shade is perfect for winter. I love the gold disc detailing and the pleated pocket. I plan on using it a lot this year as well.

Chanel inspired bags are everywhere – so many bags have leather/chain straps and quilted fabric (even the Marc Jacobs bag posted above). I bought this bag in July 2010 for $35 – I was drawn in by the blush coloured material. It’s very versatile as it can be worn as a shoulder bag or cross-body. Despite the light fabric, there has been no discolouration, although some of the stitching has come loose. Luckily it’s under the flap, so it’s not really visible. (I do think quilted bags are a bit delicate – I bought a Jacob bag – and after using it for one day, a whole row of stitching came out! I returned it immediately!)

Have you ever shopped at Aldo?  Do you love designer bags? What’s next on your bag wish list?

Disclaimer: All these bags were purchased by me. I am not affiliated with Aldo at all – I just love their bags!