Monday, October 2, 2017

Purses in Paris


Today's post is one where I am asking for your advice! You all always give wonderful advice whenever I ask for it. And as of most recently, you've all been so helpful with incredible Paris recommendations! I was floored when so many of you sent me the absolute best travel info... I can't tell you how helpful it has already been!

So I have two (very trivial) questions:
1. What bag should I be carrying around during the day?
2. What bag should I get from Goyard?

What bag should I be carrying around during the day?
I have so many cute cross body bags that I love and will surely be carrying one at night. But, I need a tote of some sort for during the day (when I want to lug my camera around). I have so many gorgeous totes and if it were me deciding, I'd happily tote along my Mansur Gavriel bag.

But, I've been told by many of you/friends/family/etc. to be cautious of pickpockets which has me concerned. I'm thinking I'll need a tote that actually fully zips and amazingly enough, I don't have a single tote (other than massive weekender totes) that fully zips.

I'm honestly more concerned for safety than looks, but I can't deny that I'm also conscious of looks, too! I typically 'invest' in handbags, but I think for this particular bag, I don't want to spend too much because I'm not sure how much I'll use it otherwise. 

So, do any of you have a stylish handbag suggestion that's safe for international travel (that goes over the shoulder comfortably) and could hold a large camera? I'm thinking of the large Longchamp Le pliage bag. I still have my first Longchamp from high school (but it's too small). But what kills me, is that I literally have a large Longchamp Le Pliage Bag in black but it has short handles. I feel kind of silly/ridiculous buying another just because I need the longer handles. Any suggestions?!


What bag should I buy from Goyard?
I guess I should start with this: I love handbags. Duh. But, I don't have a ton of handbags compared to other women/bloggers. I set a goal and save up for a bag and then wear it often. I try not to go for the trendiest bags but instead opt for the classics (ie. Louis Vuitton Speedy, Chanel black quilted bag, etc.) in neutral colors that I can get a lot of use out of now and for years to come.

I told myself that I would only ever get a Goyard bag if I went to Paris. This is the #1 bag on my wish list and has been for years. The St Louis tote is simple and practical. I love tote bags and this one is a beautiful handbag. I love that it will also end up being sentimental as well. I figured I might as well plan my (one) big purchase, so I'm focused and don't just go on a shopping spree all around Paris (I wish). I've also been reading up on Jean's amazing guide to shopping in Europe (it is chalk full of really quality information). 

I was planning on getting the St Louis bag (GM- the biggest size) in the classic black and 'gold' as they call it (but it's really tan) or the gray or darker blue. But, am now considering their newest bag (only a few months old), the Artois. Basically, the Artois is like the improved St. Louis. If you are at all familiar with the St. Louis tote, it is not structured but more slouchy, has thin leather handles and the corners of the bag tend to wear out much quicker than you'd think a bag of that price would. The Artois has been updated so that there are leather protectors at either end of the bag, the stitching is improved, there is a zipper (omg), and the straps are a touch longer for more comfort. 

Obviously, I'll be making a game time decision as I'm seeing/feeling the bags, but I'd love any input you may have if you have either of these bags! Who knows, I could totally change my mind and not get anything or decide on something else entirely... can't really fully plan for this type of thing, I know, but I like to do my research!

I always think you figure out what you like/don't like in a bag after carrying for a few weeks. I'm currently leaning towards the Artois, but the St Louis is the original classic, so I don't know! They're super pricey (probably the most I have/ever will spend on a bag), so that's why I want to make sure I make the most educated decision I can! So any tips/comments/etc. are much appreciated!


But what about Faure Le Page...
And you thought this post was over? NOT! Faure Le Page, is another very storied Parisian brand and seems to be lesser known (which is something I like). I actually only just found out about it last year. It seems that it is Goyard's competitor (this is a good comparison article). They have a lot of very similar colors/styles/etc to Goyard. I actually love their bags, too. I'm wondering if anyone has any input/info on these handbags? There really isn't even much online about the brand! From what I can see, I'm absolutely head over heels for their daily battle bag (which would be comparable to Goyard's Artois bag). Decisions, decisions.

31 comments:

Forever Young said...

The large black Le Pliage is the PERFECT bag to carry around Paris. Last fall, I lived in Rome for two months and that was the bag I carried everywhere. It is roomy, versatile, and it will blend in with the Parisienne because so many people carry them,! Perfect choice!

Andrea K-O said...

One thing to consider if you decide to get a new Longchamp is to buy it first thing when you get to Paris -- they are wayyy cheaper in Europe than in the U.S., plus it's fun to pop into the Longchamp stores in Paris! You could take an existing tote on the plane and just pick up a new Longchamp on your first day?.

Andrea K-O said...

Also, this is just a personal preference that I've developed over time, but when I travel I actually like to just take a cute little backpack as my daypack. I find that -- second only to footwear -- nothing makes me more exhausted and cranky when I'm exploring a city all day than lugging a big heavy (because of course the bigger the bag, the more I stuff into it haha) tote on my shoulder. I have a cute backpack from Draper James that I took around Europe this summer. Longchamp backpacks are great too!

Ashley said...

Check out the brand travelon. They are the absolute gold standard for travel and anti theft. They have a ton of different options and some are more stylish than others. They have anti slash straps and zippers that latch to make access even more difficult. Amazon carries them and they are pretty affordable. They are not the most fashionable bag on the market but I think you could find an option you can live with that gives you some piece of mind.

Anonymous said...

Can you borrow a Langchamp with longer handles from a friend? I lent mine to a girlfriend for travel over the summer. She returned it with some sweets inside. It wasn't a bag she would wear every day, so it didn't make sense for her to buy one. Also try secondhand like Poshmark or Ebay. People are also obsessed witb the Madewell Transit Tote, and I think they have a zip top for that now.

One thing to toss in your tote, no matter what you end up with: a blister stick! No matter how well thought out I think my footwear is on vacation, I always get blisters. I slap some of the stick on the spots where things are starting to rub, and I'm good to go. And think about getting some conpression socks as well. Easy to wear under boots, and they save your feet/ankles from swelling.

Anonymous said...

Do you have a purse you can borrow from someone to use temporarily? Once in Paris, Longchamp bags are significantly cheaper than here and there are some styles that are harder to find in the US. I would definitely buy a chic bag as a souvenir but err on the side of caution when walking around all day. I bought a Longchamp Le Pliage Hobo in Paris nearly 10 years ago and I loved the crossbody style, bigger size, and added compartments, and that it was a little different from what everybody else has. It felt safer against pickpockets and more sturdy, too. I saw this style at Nordstrom Rack last week. I am a fan of traveling with fabric as opposed to leather purses—I also recommend Kipling bags (less the gorilla), which you can always find at TJ Maxx/Marshalls and are ubiquitous in Europe. I will live vicariously through your Goyard purchase; I love your blog!

TLA said...

Goyard Anjou. Sure, it's more money than the Artois or Saint Louis, but the Anjou is leather on one side and reversible (I'm not much on logos all over a bag, which is just a personal preference!) Second choice would be the the Artois, for the organization features and flat bottom. I'm honestly not a fan of the Saint Louis.

Natalie said...

You may not want to spend this much for a camera bag, but I use this bag for travel: https://www.onabags.com/store/shoulder-bags/the-palma.html?color=cognac

It fits my DSLR, an extra lens if I want it, a wallet, sunglasses, etc. I like it because it doesn't look like a camera bag and it is also very secure against pickpockets.

If you do go with the Longchamp, I second everyone else's advice to buy it when you land in Paris. Much cheaper! Or borrow one from a friend.

I too will be living vicariously through your Goyard purchase. I have a LV Neverfull, and they are so similar in style that I'm waiting until mine wears out for the Goyard.

Lauren said...

If you're going to get a Longchamp, definitely get it in Paris because they're so much cheaper there! I don't like that they have no structure to them but they're great for traveling because of the zipper and how much they hold.

Lauren

Unknown said...

Yes Longchamp because of the zipper (keep the zipper in front of you so no one can sneakily get in still) and it’s waterproof. That was the best thing I packed for my Europe trip.

Holly
Hollyhoehner.com

Anonymous said...

Yes go for the Longchamp! I've carried mine several times in Europe. Love that it zips, and I love that it blends in because so many Parisians carry them! There is a great Longchamp store on Rue St Honore, so you could stop by and get one there if you don't buy one here!

Heather said...

Everlane makes a cute, affordable zip tote!
https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-twill-tote-black-black-leather?collection=petra

Heather
www.theheatherreport.com

Valerie said...

I wanted a nice size less expensive zippered tote for our last France trip and I ended up purchasing a structured Brahmin embossed leather tote that ended up being perfect!

Do also at least make a small purchase at LV. Since it is the flagship store it is pretty much a must do! It truly was more of an experience than shopping at LV boutiques in the US. I will say it is better to purchase a bag though because then you are able to shop on the second floor which is much quieter and less crowded. The first floor is where you will find smaller items for those that just want to purchase something from LV to say they did ;) As soon as they found out I was making a larger handbag purchase I was immediately directed upstairs.

Lauren said...

Love Longchamp! And they are great for travel!

Lauren,
http://www.atouchofsoutherngrace.com

Anonymous said...

I'm going to be honest and say in the year I spent abroad I was never overtly worried about pickpockets and I spent a majority of my time in major European cities. If you're cognizant that it can happen and are smart about it,I don't think it's something you should be preoccupied by. I will say that they can be quite crafty, one of my friends had her wallet stolen out of the front flap of her backpack on the subway during rush hour. You just have to be smart about it.

The first month or so I used my Longchamps Le Pilage (mainly because it was the only purse I'd brought) but switched over to a cross body which was really life changing, though definitely an adjustment in carrying capacity.

I'm heading back to Europe this winter and I'm planning on bringing a bucket bag (I think this is the term? It's got a leather drawstring top) and a small crossbody. I will say the Le Pilage is easy to pack since you can just fold it up which helps.

MC said...

I've taken my Dagne Dover totes on several trips to Europe and that thing is worth its weight in GOLD! I have several: the clutch wallet, the midi tote, and the legend tote. The midi has been my top choice for travel because it's waterproof, has designated compartments for all my stuff, and it comes with a cross body strap. I also love the legend, but I got mine before they redesigned the dimensions, so it's a little big for carting around the streets of Europe. It's been the BEST choice for the carry-on, though! FYI, the midi has an iPad sleeve, but I have actually flown with my 13" macbook tucked into it without a problem. Good luck!

Rachel said...

I would get another Longchamp if I were you! I have had one for over 5 years that I have traveled to Europe with. It fits my laptop and all other necessities for day time use. Many people in Europe carry them, so they help you to blend in with the crowd and not stand out. I find that large Longchamp totes make great carry ons too!

Jackie M said...

Having been to Europe on several week-long trips, I would suggest the Le Pliage but with caution. I would carry my DSLR in it but found that with long day drips it would hurt my shoulder. So I did get a different Longchamp bag that is perfect for Europe trips. But sadly I could not find it anywhere besides eBay. I suggest the crossbody/hobo because it can be worn on one shoulder and also as a crossbody. It has only one small outside pocket where you can easily access your phone for quick photos but has the one main pocket where everything is safely kept. Hope this helps.


http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/longchamp-le-pliage-convertible-hobo/3446638

Lexy said...

Buy the Longchamp when you get there --- I literally bought one in the Heathrow airport once for wayyyyy cheaper than in the states. What makes you want to go for a Goyard that is so similar to LV than a classic YSL satchel? Interested in your thoughts, Ive been getting a little tired of the logos!

Unknown said...

Definitely bring a purse with a zipper! I studied abroad in Paris a few years ago, and a small child tried to rob me on the Metro! You can never be too careful. Longchamp bags are a little cheaper in Paris (even with the euro exchange rate) so if you wanted you could wait and buy one when you get there! There are standalone Longchamp boutiques in a lot of nice shopping areas in Paris, and you can get them in the famous department stores.

Anonymous said...

I recommend going to TJ Maxx and taking a look at what they have by way of zippered totes. My mom just got a really nice Anne Klein beige zip tote for under $50 that looks great.

Alternatively, if you’re really concerned about safety, look into pacsafe products. I have a cross body that while isn’t the most stylish has a lot of secure features and has served me well through several international trips. Looks like they have some products now that are more stylish like the citysafe backpack.

Anonymous said...

I love my Tumi Voyageur M Tote!

Sunsetsatsea said...

I just purchased the Tory Butch weekender from Nordstrom rack. It zippers and is similar to the Longchamp bag. The handle fits around my shoulder. Check it out.

Sunsetatsea said...

Actually the Tory bag I bought and recommend is the packable tote (not weekender)

Ambrey said...

Definitely buy the Longchamp when you get there - much cheaper! And as for the brand of bag to buy (Goyard vs. Faure Le Page), I don't know much about either, but I know that the lesser-known French brands are often better than the big names. I would recommend going to stores and seeing/feeling them in person to decide!

Emily said...

I love your blog so don’t think this the wrong way but I feel like the Goyard has already had its moment. Just like the LV speedy being the “it” bag of 2004, I feel like Goyard St Louis tote is very 2012. I own the grey tote you have pictured and I know it’s a classic like (similar to your speedy) but everyone has one! I think if you’re looking for an investment while being in front of trends, buy Celine’s tassel phantom cabas tote. It much more durable than the Goyard tote and super chic!

Unknown said...

NICE












Unknown said...

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hollygolightly said...

I agree about buying the Le Pliage large shopper tote in Europe. It's cheaper in France and good for a daybag, will stand up to being taken on planes/trains/out down on coffee shop floors etc and I think they actually wear so well that I don't mind when the bag corners start to look a little worn!
As for the Goyard purchase, I love the fact that you can't seem to buy Goyard online and you must to go to the boutiques. I got the green St Louis and was initially unsure about going for a colour over the traditional/classic black St Louis. I love this bag and get real joy from wearing it! Goyard dates back one more year than Louis Vuitton (1853 v 1854) so in terms of whether something is "in" or passé, I like that these brands have overcome the notion of trendiness and will continue to stand the test of time. They are so classic that any degree of being ubiquitous doesn't matter because they will always be in style.
Enjoy your bag purchasing experience and don't forget to claim the goods tax back as you're not a European resident so you get a note/receipt in store and take this to the airport on your departure.

arr said...

I recently returned from Paris and had such a wonderful time! And, like you, I wanted to visit Goyard on Rue Saint-Honore and make a purchase. I bought the Artois tote in black with black handles, in the GM size. It is a beautiful and useful bag! The size is perfect; bigger than their PM sizes (obviously) but not as big as an LV Neverfull GM (re: LV Neverfull GM - always feels too big for daily use but is great for travel since you can nest whatever "daily" bag you're carrying, in it, in addition to other travel essentials). I love that the Artois has a zipper, and I also appreciate the reinforced bottom corners. I already have a St. Louis PM (gray) which I love, but the Artois style is much sturdier. It was 1290€ which is a significant savings given that it costs $2550 in the U.S. For your first one, I'd definitely recommend Gray because you will be able to wear it with every single color in your wardrobe; it is a pretty Gray and a useful color! I tried on the Anjous, and while I like that it's reversible, it didn't do anything "different" from my St. Louis. I have heard of that other Parisian brand you reference but don't know much about them. Perhaps Goyard first, then a bag by the other brand (ha!). Now for Paris: we had no issue with pickpockets. I carried my LV Bastille PM (discontinued bag) cross body which zips, and always had it towards the front of my body. I was able to buzz around Paris with ease and keep my belongings safe. If you are looking for a very chic place for dinner, be sure to check out Costês @ Hotel Costês (also on Rue Saint-Honore)!

Boots, Tiaras and Herefords said...

Hi I have had the Artois bag in black for 2 years and I loved it. I originally purchased the St. Louis bag from Madison ave and exchanged it for the Artois. I am very happy with my decision. The bag is large enough to fit my ipad mini, wallet and 2 small notebooks which is all I bring to work with me on a regular basis. The bag is more structured so that when it falls on the ground everything doesn't dump out like with the St. Louis bag. In addition the zipper feature is nice because when it rains it protects the items in my bad from getting wet. The Artois bag also includes free monograming which is an addition ~$200 for the St. Louis bag. I chose the black as my first goyard because it is classic and timeless. I think I will be purchasing the blue in a few years as a fun bag.

 

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