Wishlisting: Top Vintage Picks

I’ll never forget my first big-ticket purchase I made after the blog had taken off. I had saved my pennies up for the one bag I had dreamt about since high school: a vintage Chanel flap. A long-time lover of vintage, I used to spend afternoons combing through racks at local second hand shops and boutiques in search of iconic items. To be honest, I wish I had the patience today that I did back then as I hunted down some true gems like a Burberry wool coat, Hermes belt, Christian Dior fur and more.

Don’t get me wrong, I still appreciate the experience of purchasing a new handbag but if you’re anything like me, within a month or two of heavy wear on that must-have piece, you start to question if paying full price really was worth the investment. Classic bags can often be found at luxury consignment boutiques – like Lux Second Chance – for hundreds or even thousands, cheaper.

Since I stick to a monthly allowance for clothing and accessories I can invest in for the blog, being able to sell my luxury goods that are no longer in rotation also helps in attaining a new pair of shoes or handbag that I may have my sights set on. Why let dust collect on something you’re never going to wear when it can help earn you something you’ve been admiring?!

When it comes to selling, I prefer to consign my items at boutiques that feature a variety of items such as handbags, shoes, jewellery, watches and more so as to attract a wider audience and sell your pre-loved item faster. Lux Second Chance has recently expanded to include shoes, jewelry and soon to be watches which many readers are often looking for.

If the idea of buying luxury consignment goods excites you but you’re unsure which items to add to your must-have list, I’m sharing my 5 go to pieces that I have already invested in or plan to snag from a luxury consignment boutique like Lux Second Chance.

1. Vintage Chanel Flap

As mentioned, this was my first luxury purchase I had saved up from projects accumulated on the blog. I don’t think there’s anything more classic than a Chanel flap. I specifically went out of my way to opt for a shape that was indicative of the 80s collection and was not found in many shops. I take this bag from day to night in a cinch and the dual inside pockets make it a breeze for carrying my daily essentials – cell phone, pen, keys, lip gloss, wallet, hair pins and more. My only regret? I purchased my bag in lambskin leather which tends to show its age as well as wear and tear more so than caviar leather. I recommend investing in the latter if you’re looking for a bag that can stand the test of time.

2. Louis Vuitton Neverfull

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… this bag is my workhorse tote. It comes with me to work, I run errands with it, carry groceries home in it, tote it around in the airport and more. I’ve been told the GM size can even withstand up to 200 pounds – even with such small straps. Why buy vintage? Since the oil in your hands and day to day wear are bound to find their way on the bag, it’s only a matter of time before the patina on the small trim and handles are going to change. And let’s be honest – the coloured patina on a Louis Vuitton bag are what proves its authenticity. Considering the same bag can be purchased for $400-500 less than the retail price for this small feature, I would suggest keeping an eye out for this hot ticket item.

3. Vintage Chanel Pin
Looking to snag a piece of the Chanel brand but unsure about which bag is a fit for you? Why not consider a Chanel pin. I love that it can spruce up a tweed blazer, dress, be added to a necklace chain or even pinned to a fabric bag for some pizzazz. I’m partial to the models with Swarovski crystals and pearls but you can never go wrong with a circular style with double C’s as well.

4. Goyard Tote
This Goyard bag has been on my wish list for years and for some reason, I can’t seem to pull the trigger. I keep debating between the navy and white versions and have come to the conclusion that perhaps it’s worth investing in one brand new from the store and obtaining the second colour – down the road – from a consignment boutique. I love how timeless the pattern is, how chic it can make any outfit look and that it’s another great tote which can travel from day to night to the airport in a cinch.

5. Dior Lady Bag

The Lady Dior is another #goals bag for me. This handbag just screams ultra-fem and I love the chic top handles. I do find I’ve pushed it down on my list year after year since I question how much wear I’ll get from it but that concern aside, it’s still one my iconic bags. Now the question is: do you get it in blush, black or white? Eek!

Whether you’re looking to add or build your luxury collection at home, it always helps to have a prioritized list of what you’re in the market for. Often disappointed by the limited options available at a local brick and mortar store, I love keeping bookmarks on my favourite online boutiques such as Lux Second Chance where I can access pages on pages of vintage goods.

Since I have a few items consistently moving around on my wish list, this helps me prioritize what I really want (scratch that – need!) without the pressure of a sales associate trying to sway me to make an impulse buy. Not to mention – who has the time to even shop anymore?! Most of my shopping is done after hours when I finally have 10-15 minutes to myself.

Is there a vintage bag you’ve had your eye on? I’d love to know! Also – get 10% your next order on Lux Second Chance with the promo code, Krys10%

This post was sponsored by Lux Second Chance. All opinions expressed are my own.

Day to Night

Blouse: c/o Lilly Pulitzer | Baublebar Earrings

AG Jeans | Christian Louboutin Pumps {Designer Dupe}

Chanel Handbag {Designer Dupe} | Julie Vos Bangles

NYC Powder Puff Lipstick

Sharing one of my favourite looks as of late to wear from a day at the office to date night with the hubs!

Signs of Spring

Sunglasses – Just snagged these and love! | Similar Pink Trench Coat

Printed Shift Dress (Under $20!) | Similar Miu Miu Sneakers {Designer Dupe}

Pink Quilted Chanel Bag {Designer Dupe}

Gingham Gal

Baker Boy Cap | White Turtleneck

Navy Cape: Old, Similar here and here | Gingham Trousers: Old, Similar here and here

Handbag: Chanel {Designer Dupe} | Christian Louboutin Pumps {Designer Dupe}

Julie Vos Bangles | Madewell Pinky Ring Set

Soul to Sole: Shoe Collection Review

Last year I had the chance to review my favourite designer handbag purchases which was a huge hit. I had a few questions following about my favourite sunglasses and designer shoes so I’m so pumped to be covering my favourite designer finds and an honest take on whether I’d buy them again.

Salvatore Ferragamo Vera Pump {Designer Dupe}

See them styled here

Pros: These bow pumps are not only cute but they’re extremely comfortable for busy days at the office. I also love that the brand offers them in a regular size and for wider feet. I also found a pink pair at a Winners not too long ago and got them for 1/4 of the price!

Cons: The patent can take some time breaking in.

Verdict: They’re not the snazziest heel in your closet but if you want an investment shoe that can be worn in various scenarios, then I’d recommend. I would definitely buy again (hopefully not full price!).

Christian Louboutin Pigalle Follies 100mm {Designer Dupe}

See them styled here

After having purchased the Pigalle pair in the nude, I wanted to add a second pair of Louboutin’s to my closet which I felt would naturally work with most outfits. So a black pair seemed like the next natural move.

Pros: I do love the thinner heel on this pair and can’t deny the pop of red any pair of Louboutin’s add to an outfit.

Cons: I made a grave mistake in confusing the Pigalle and the Pigalle Follies. While both pairs are both 100mm in heel height, the Pigalle stiletto is much thicker and therefore, makes it super easy to walk in. The heel is so thin on this pair that even on my way to a dinner date I find my strut go from so-so to bad to disastrous!

Verdict: I probably wouldn’t buy this specific pair again. Maybe I spent too much of my 20s in high-heels but I can barely make it through date night in this pair without complaining about having to walk in these shoes. I definitely don’t wear them as often as I’d like and for that reason, I wouldn’t purchase them again.

Stuart Weitzman Nudistsong {Designer Dupe}

See them styled here

Pros: I LOVE the clean lines of this shoe and how it can act as a true accessory in a bold outfit. The ankle straps also ease in the comfortability of the shoe making them more comfortable than other pairs I’ve owned. I also love how the shape of the sole widens at the front. I wouldn’t consider myself to have wide feet, but they certainly aren’t narrow.

Cons: There isn’t much distinction about the shoe that screams ‘designer pair’. Other brands have ways of making their mark known but with so many designer dupes out there for these shoes, one does question the price tag.

Verdict: I doubt I’d replace these shoes if I wore them through.

Chanel Espadrille {Designer Dupe}

See them styled here

I must have eye-balled these shoes for years. I would try them on and then tell myself I didn’t need them or it was impractical for owning a pair of shoes like this living in Canada. Since we’ve started to travel more (and to warmer climates), I justified the spend and do find myself busting them out early spring and into late fall.

Pros: Shockingly comfortable. These are actually my go-to airport shoes when travelling somewhere to alleviate the weight in my luggage. They slip on and off quite easily and are extremely comfortable. I also love how the neutral tones make it easy to pair with most outfits.

Cons: I’ve worn them quite frequently for over a year now and while it’s not an issue yet, I do wonder how well the sole will hold up over time. And because it has to be said… the price tag lol (they are espadrilles after all).

Verdict: Despite the sticker shock, I would definitely buy them again!

Hermes Oran Sandal {Designer Dupe}

Pros: I love the neutral colour of the sandal and that this style of shoe works great with sundresses or ripped jeans and a tee.

Cons: Despite trying these on in store, I actually bought my first pair in the wrong size. Be sure to go half a size up if possible. I also found these a little tough to break in so count on a few blisters here and there.

Verdict: Despite being a pain to work in, I still love the classic look of these sandals and would definitely buy again.

Christian Louboutin Pigalle 100 {similar} {Designer Dupe}

See them styled here

Pros: I love, love, love these shoes! So much so I’ve actually had to replace the heel twice since I purchased them. The stiletto is comfortable, I can wear them to and from meetings and the shade is a great neutral for outfits.

Cons: The beige shade will scuff with time and start to show wear and tear. They also aren’t as sleek looking as say, the Follies, but it depends if you favour fashion or function.

Verdict: Will 100% be buying again.

Miu Miu Embellished Sneaker {Designer Dupe}

See them styled here

Pros: Comfortable sneakers with girly embellishments – need I say more?! I adore the blush shade of these shoes and that they pair great with a midi skirt and tee, skinny jeans or shorts.

Cons: They’re pink sneakers with rhinestones on them?!?! What’s the con? LOL! I am a tad nervous one of the gems may fall out but it’s been over a year and they’re all still in tact which is a good sign.

Verdict: Heck yes I would buy them again!

Valentino Rockstud Pointy Toe Pump {Designer Dupe here}

See them styled here

Pros: Firs off, I adore this shade of shoe. It’s adaptable and can err on the side of blush or mauve depending on how you accessorize it. They also work great with any outfit and oh-my-goodness are these suckers comfy. I can go from day to night in these and not even feel a pinch in my toes.

Cons: These are definitely not the shoe you want to be wearing when shopping or going to someone’s house to visit – getting all 6 straps done up or undone is a pain in the butt!

Verdict: Despite the fact that they’re extremely overrated, I’m ashamed to admit I love them and would definitely buy again.

Chanel Ballerina Flats {Designer Dupe here}

See them styled here

Pros: Second to my Sam Edelman Felicia’s, these might be the comfiest pair of flats I own (as they should be for that price!). Also quite versatile for outfits which helps justify the purchase. They also pack great and the leather is quite malleable if they get squished.

Cons: The leather is quite soft at the cap toe and scuffs VERY easily. The first scuff was like a punch to the gut but I have heard girls tell me to get over it and it shows the authenticity of the shoe.

Verdict: Would definitely buy again but maybe in patent?

Manolo Blahnik Hangisi {Designer Dupe here}

See it styled here

Pros: These are a stunner type shoe – they definitely make an outfit and a statement at that. They’re also extremely comfortable as far as heels go. They also dress up or down quite nicely with jeans or dresses.

Cons: I find I am cautious with the satin and have waited out a rainstorm for 30 minutes once for fear of ruining the fabric.

Verdict: I still question if blue was the right choice for me hue wise. I’ve been eyeballing the nude pair and have considered selling these to offset the cost.

What I’ve got my eye on next:

White + Cream

Beret | Sweater {Also loving this} | Jeans

Boots {Designer Dupe} | Sunglasses | Chanel Bag {Designer Dupe}

Necklace: c/o Julie Vos

Trying to take advantage of the season before we’re hit with flurries, piles of snow, wind gusts and those ugly parkas: I’ll be living in this fall uniform. I’ve been loving this white and cream combo to brighten up dreary days and paired with an over the knee boot, it’s a chic look that can take you from day to night at the office or on weekends.

Gingham & Gardens

Dress: asos {also love this and this} | Hat: c/o Eric Javits

Bag: Chanel {Designer Dupe | Cuff: c/o Julie Vos

Sunglasses: Old, similar | Shoes: c/o Ann Taylor

I wore this dress to tour the grounds of the Villa et Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild: the most stunning pink building you will ever see! With a variety of gardens, sweeping views of both VilleFranche and the French Riviera plus a water fountain show every 20 minutes, I highly recommend a visit if you’re in the area. Certainly the most dramatic dress I brought with me on vacation, this was the perfect occasion to show off this gingham number. And for those wondering – I did have the peep hole sewed up as I felt it wasn’t sitting right but had it fit – I thought it was such a cute detail.

Handbag Haven: A Closet Review

A few months back, I had asked what type of content readers were most interested in seeing/reading about on the blog. While career advice, a hair tutorial and more are on their way, I wanted to get to sharing a review on my handbag collection. I got a ton of feedback from girls asking about what I thought was or wasn’t worth the investment when it comes to handbags. With a new season around the corner and perhaps a new ‘it’ bag to go with the season, I thought I’d give my two cents on some of the purchases I’ve made.

Chloe Drew Bag {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: I love how light this bag is – even with a heavy metal chain. The design was also quite simple and paired perfectly with a range of outfits and could be worn on the shoulder or crossbody.

Cons: The gold plate on the front of the bag has become quite scratched with time. I also find the bag is about 1cm too short of being able to carry a long wallet, keys and a cell phone. It certainly fits but you get the impression the leather is stretching to carry it all and it’s just an uncomfortable feeling. I do find I wear it less and less as of late given how many girls are wearing it now, but I do think for the wear I got out of it – the value was worth it.

Verdict: Wouldn’t buy it again.

Chanel Foldover Bag {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: This purchase was definitely a splurge and more of a rash decision (which isn’t usually my purchasing style). On a trip to Paris with my sissy, I had mustered up the courage to buy the 2.55 bag in beige to find out that it’s no longer considered to be an Iconic piece made every season. A little bummed, I couldn’t help but notice this pink bag sitting on the shelf. A little shocked at the price (it was much more reasonable than the 2.55) and how versatile the colour was, and a whole lot of convincing from Kass, I talked myself into it.

I love that the bag is calfskin leather which in my opinion, holds up far better than the lambskin leather from Chanel. I’m even ashamed to admit a poor packing of this bag once on vacation left its shape a tad mangled but after stuffing it with tissue paper and holding a hair dryer to it – the shape bounced back. I also love the adjustable strap and how it can go from more of a casual vibe worn crossbody to a statement item worn on your shoulder. The colour is also super versatile and can appear to be more blush when played up or beige with darker hues.

Cons: The only con I would have to admit this bag has is the fact that it’s a snap closure. The magnet is definitely stronger than most but a more secure means of closing the bag would have been ideal.

Verdict: Would definitely buy again!

Vintage Chanel {Designer Dupe}

Perhaps one of the more sentimental bags in my collection, this vintage Chanel was one I saved up for months to acquire. I’d always loved the idea of a vintage handbag and knowing that a 2.55 bag was out of question, it was my next best bet.

Pros: I loved the look of this iconic bag and the irregular shape which was a clear indicator that it was a vintage purchase. The size is perfect enough to fit a wallet, keys, phone and lipstick which is perfect! I also love that the chain can be tucked inside the bag so it doubles as a clutch.

Cons: The lambskin leather: it’s near impossible to keep it looking perfect. The OCD in me screams on the inside when it gets scuffed.

Verdict: Would buy it again!

Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

I call this bag my workhorse. I have used it almost every-single-day since I bought it 3 years ago and it was worth every single penny I paid for it. To be honest, I’ve been debating the white/grey canvas print of the same bag but am on the fence on whether it will get scuffed with time.

Pros: This is my everyday work tote so it carries a laptop and its sleeve, notebook, notepad, wallet, laptop charger, makeup bag, pens, phone and a ton more. I also travel with it and including all of the above, I’ll also pack headphones, magazines and snacks. I’m blown away at how durable the bag is especially given the wear and tear I’ve put it through.

Cons: I think this is standard for most LV bags, but this bag can definitely lose its shape with time. I actually purchased an insert for my Speedy (best decision ever made) and regret not getting one for this item. The leather around the parameter of the bag is also starting to crack in certain spots but I have a love/hate relationship with this. I do love a fresh LV bag but there is something to be said for the patina.

Verdict: Would buy it again!

Louis Vuitton Croisette {Designer Dupe here and here}

See it styled here

I actually purchased this bag on our trip to Hawaii earlier this year. I had every intent of snagging the Eva clutch but after struggling with the length of the chain on my frame (it just seemed too long), this new style caught my eye.

Pros: Deceiving in size, this bag packs a punch. I can fit all my daily go-to’s in the bag and not feel like the bag is stretching by the hour as I carry on with my day. I also adore how it can convert from a crossbody to a top handle tote in a pinch – making it the perfect travel companion. This is the first style in the Azur Canvas I’ve ever owned but it’s held up better than I had anticipated (I’m quite rough with my bags so I need a durable and preferable darker leather for scuffs).

Cons: I am finding the top portion of the bag is becoming slightly crooked with time. That being said, I have tried stuffing it when not in use and am finding it’s correcting itself. The only other complaint is the closure mechanism. I feel like I’m struggling to actually close it sometimes when at a checkout or in a pinch and it’s not always a cinch to close.

Verdict: Would buy it again!

Prada Saffiano Cuir {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: Last winter I realized I was lacking a black, classic handbag for more polished outfits and felt this bag would do the trick. I needed something to carry notebooks, daily essentials and more for meetings on the go and this did the trick. I also loved the pop of blush in the interior for an unexpected surprise. I do find the bag quite light to carry given the hardware.

Cons: I’ve learned with a previous style like this and my wallet that the saffiano leather doesn’t always hold up from Prada so I’m certainly far more cautious with this bag and where it rests or is put down (which I hate!). I also don’t love the magnetic closure on the bag but I suppose it’s better than nothing.

Verdict: Would buy it again… but in a different shade.

Saint Laurent Sac du Jour {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: I love how chic and classic this handbag is. I definitely bought it with a more polished and professional look in mind. While it’s not super wide, I will say the bag can hold an iPad, notebook, wallet keys and more on a good day. The leather is amazing quality and despite my day to day wear, it still looks fab a few years later.

Cons: My one complaint about this bag is the weight of it – it actually feels like there is a 5 pound weight on your arm at all times. There is a cross body strap that came with this style but I always felt like it never quite worked with the style.

Verdict: Wouldn’t buy it again.

Mansur Gavriel Bucket Bag {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: Living out my boho summer dreams, I snagged this bag after sitting on a waitlist at Holt Renfrew for months. I loved seeing it on other bloggers and the shade of leather seemed quite versatile with most outfits. I do love the ease of the bag and how it seems casual cool. The adjustable strap is also handy depending on whether you’re wearing it off the shoulder or cross body.

Cons: The leather is quite impressionable so every scratch is quite obvious. The bow on the bag can also be frustrating to set and keep all day – especially if you need to get in and out of the bucket bag.

Verdict: Would buy it again.

Saint Laurent Medium Kate Wallet on a Chain {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: The bright pop of colour is a fun addition to your #OOTN. The adjustable strap makes it super versatile but I do love the way this bag is styled off the shoulder especially with an evening dress. The leather is quite durable and still looks great.

Cons: Personally, I think the cost of the bag exceeds its value. Sure – it’s a fun item to have in your wardrobe but for the few times it can actually be worn, I don’t know if the amount of times I’ve worn it makes the price tag worth it. The size is so small it’s hard to fit more than a cell phone, card case and lipstick.

Verdict: Wouldn’t buy it again.

Givenchy Antigona – Medium {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: I LOVE the shade of this bag – it’s another mix of blush and cream and can be played up or down depending on the outfit. It’s the perfect size for the busy woman on the go but isn’t so large that it feels like a work tote if you wear it to date night. I have dropped a TON of stuff on this bag and despite my reservations about buying a light coloured leather – they’ve all come out – it has maintained its look despite being the brunt of my ice cream/sandwiches/coffee spills and more.

Cons: I find the strap to be quite pointless on this bag – it’s something I find I rarely use. I did find the price tag to be a tad high given that it’s a trendy bag but given the amount of use I got out of it, I can accept it more than others. I am finding myself weaning off the bag for the fall season so I do wonder if it’s a short lived fad that won’t survive much longer.

Verdict: Would buy it again.

Gucci Soho Leather Bag {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: This lightweight, crossbody packs great, is priced great (compared to similar designer items this size) and comes in a wide array of fun colours. Another deceiving size, you can fit a regular sized wallet, phone and keys in this bag – though it is snug.

Cons: I personally always felt like this bag was best paired with casual outfits. I find it hindered from me wearing it more because it felt best worn with a tee, jeans and pumps and since majority of my wardrobe consists of dresses – it became a problem. You can also see that the bag is starting to lose its shape (despite being stuffed) and isn’t as polished as it once looked.

Verdict: Wouldn’t buy it again.

Chanel Wallet on a Chain {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: A great travel companion – this crossbody features card slots and can slightly expand for very small essentials on the go. It’s also one of the more ‘reasonably’ priced items if you’re looking to own a piece of Chanel in your wardrobe. Once again, the lambskin leather has helped keep this bag looking new despite its age and the amount of times it’s been beat around in a carryon suitcase.

Cons: Do know that keys, lipstick or anything wider than a card case probably won’t make it into this item but the name does indicate it’s purpose – wallet on a chain. I do find the chain to be a tad long and I’m not a fan of wearing this bag off the shoulder, but it’s certainly not a deal breaker.

Verdict: Would buy it again.

Prada Saffiano Lux Tote {Designer Dupe}

See it styled here

Pros: An oversized tote bag, I’ve carried a notebook, Macbook pro, wallet and more and it never felt like it was ‘too much’ for the handbag. I also loved the shade of this leather – it went perfect with most coats in my wardrobe and worked in every season.

Cons: The leather certainly wears with time and you can start to notice scuffs and wear & tear on the bottom and corners of the bag. The shape has also started to dissolve despite trying to stuff the bag. Last but not least, the magnetic closure was never the greatest closing mechanism on this bag and often popped open.

Verdict: Wouldn’t buy it again.

I hope you guys liked this series. For those interested, the next few bags I have my eye on are the Dior Lady Bag, Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis and a Chanel 2.55 in Beige ;) Do you have any of the above (or made a designer purchase) and love them or hate them?! I’d love to know!

Lady in Lace

Hat | Sweater {old, similar} | Dress: c/o Chicwish | Shoes: Zara {similar}

Bag: Chanel {Designer Dupe} | Sunglasses | Watch

Earrings