1. Keep a paper trail
Intrinsic to the future resale value of any valuable handbag
is the paperwork that comes with it. It is vital to keep all
documentation organised and readily available. Exotic items
require permits in order for them to be shipped internationally, and authenticity
cards and certificates can be required for the repair of
certain brands.
Additionally, as valuable and rare assets, insurance appraisals
may require invoices for proper valuation. It pays to be
organised. This is especially important for bags set with
diamonds, as official documentation of carat weight and gem
colour cannot be replaced.
For accessories, proper storage is crucial to maintaining resale
value. Condition is key on the secondary market — and this
means appropriate packing is essential. Be sure to read our expert tips on handbag storage in order to maximise resale potential.
3. Exotics and the rain don’t mix!
A simple but very important rule: no exotics in the rain! Rain damage is one of the most detrimental
condition issues for any handbag. Although exotics may appear
durable, they are particularly susceptible to water damage.
The innocuous shower turns serious when your Porosus Crocodile
is rain-speckled. More often than not, this damage is permanent.
Ensure that when the weather report calls for rain, your exotics
are safe at home. If you must tote your tote, utilise the ‘raincoat’ that accompanies your Birkin or Kelly.
The condition of a handbag’s interior is just as important
as its exterior. One rule of thumb to follow for your most
precious pieces: no loose pens or lipstick. Even light pen
marks can reduce a bag's resale value. Be smart and invest
in an insert organiser.
5. Don’t forget to moisturise
With regular visits to a handbag ’spa’, a piece’s lifespan
and resale value can be ensured and extended. In particular,
moisturising leather will protect against cracks and permanent
damage. Treat your handbags as you would any other asset
— with regular and attentive care.
6. Operate a rotation system
To ensure a holistic and complete collection, be sure to invest
in a mixture of timeless and on-trend pieces: a utilitarian
tote for the office, for example, and a delicate clutch for
evening.
Another rule of thumb: rotate. Making use of each piece in
your collection as much as possible will ensure a longer
life for all the bags you collect.
A savvy collector is always on the hunt, but knows to buy only from industry-respected sources. Be wary of a ‘too-good-to-be-true’ bargain, and don't be afraid to consult an expert
if you think a deal is suspiciously good. Nothing can
replace the confidence of buying from a trusted outlet.
8. Think about the resale value
It is critical to think about a bag’s resale value, even if you
never anticipate selling. If your handbag is valuable on
the secondary market, it is also more likely to be valuable
to your heirs.
Fundamental to resale value is the quality of a bag's craftsmanship
and design. Apply the same principles to investing in your handbags as you would to art or jewellery.
You won’t regret it.
9. The three rules of collecting? Quality, quality, quality
A bag’s hardware and manufacturing will always
be among the highest indicators of its value.
Handmade will always rule: assembly-line construction will
simply not hold up in comparison to the quality of an item made in an atelier.
Made-to-last will outlast the competition, and is worth the
investment.
Don’t be afraid to let your collection be an extension of your
style and personality. The handbag is one of the most personal objects
you own and is often the most valuable piece in
a wardrobe. When all that’s said, don’t be afraid to have fun with it!