I can recall one period in my life where a lack of resources held me back from sharing what I truly wanted to on here. AKA, I didn’t have extra money to spend on clothing so every tiny thing I invested in had to last and be worn in many different ways. I would go on luxury sites, like Net-a-Porter, and create Wish Lists of things I wanted (as if budget was no issue). Then, I’d take the list and scour the internet for something similar or reach out to the brand to borrow (back then I had zero clout so this was the most I could do) to feature in an upcoming blog post.

Not only did I have a “lack of funds” to invest in what I really wanted to – but I could barely make ends meet at home with my five plus freelance jobs. (Just typing this brings back so many difficult memories of struggles and fears. I cannot tell you how fortunate I feel at this exact moment to no longer have this problem. For this reason, I aggressively save as well as live below my means. This is why I’m redoing my apartment and not a house.) Needless to say, I became a pro at making inexpensive things look expensive. I focused less on trends and more on staples. Yes, trends are great because they can make you standout but staples are more realistic if you’re on a budget.

I had weird rules like, “if it’s not 100% classic, then I’m not buying it” or “if I can’t wear this bag seven different ways, it’s not for me” or “if I don’t dream about it within the next few nights, I’m not spending the money.” Some of these rules still stick with me, especially if I’m buying something really expensive.

So what on earth do you spend your hard-earned-but-ready-and-willing-to-invest money on if you’re looking to scoop up a new bag this summer?

I’ve been working with the incredible Brahmin team for a couple months now. As part of my partnership with the brand, I’ve received countless bags in various shapes and sizes and can confidently say each bag (regardless of style) is 100% classic, can be worn seven different ways and at times, keeps me up at night because I can’t help but see them pop up in my feed right before I close my eyes – and they’re cute. Their price points are conservative – not cheap, but not expensive. They also offer so many different colors, shapes and fabrications. I promise these bags can seamlessly weave into any wardrobe.

Today I’m wearing the Margo Newbury bag from their most recent collection (which comes in this and this style too) but have rounded up a few more of my favorites (which you may have already seen in the past) below. From ladylike totes to summery prints to shapes that resemble vintage suitcases, I love them all!

Happy “smart” shopping!

Xo, Stephanie

[Thank you Brahmin for sponsoring today’s post!]