1. What is the reason for buying a new handbag?

There are many reasons why you may be looking for a new handbag. If it's for a special occasion such as a wedding or a function, the chances are you have already selected your outfit and now you're looking to accessorise. In this instance you are probably looking for a bag to match the colour of either the outfit or your headwear and as it's a formal occasion, a structured bag is probably more appropriate, either a top handled grab bag or maybe a clutch. 

Another reason might be that you are simply replacing old with new. If this is the case, are you trying to match the style of your previous bag? If so, are there things to look out for that may improve on what you already own? For instance, if you had a shoulder bag before, was it too big or too small? Was the closure awkward to use on a regular basis? Perhaps it was a bit heavy and pulled your shoulder down. If that was the case you might consider a shoulder bag from our Paolo Masi range. These bags are hand woven by master craftsmen using quality soft leather that is very light weight and a good all round bag that is easy to use and live with. 

Maybe you just fancied a different colour or style so you thought you might just treat yourself, and why not! Well there are no hard and fast rules if this is the case. Although you might want to consider whether you fancy something high fashion or a classic style, and as for colour, you may consider if you want to make a bold statement or just stick to the classics.  

2. Which bag suits my style?

We are all different shapes and sizes with our own thoughts about our personal style, so obviously there can never be a one bag fits all. Even if you like similar things to your best friend, the same bag may not suit both. Your stature may influence what suits you best. If you are short or petit, you may find a large tote or large shoulder bag a little awkward to carry or even too heavy. 

Another consideration is the choice of smart or casual. If you want a smart look then undoubtedly a structured bag is the way to go, especially if it is constructed with luxury Italian leather such as the Carbotti Bellino. For a casual look, a slouchy hobo bag is undoubtedly the way to go.

Again colour is a big consideration. We all have our favourite colours but maybe your style is to have a bold statement piece. If it is, then you are likely to be a person that follows fashion and seasonal trends. The rest of us who are a little more reserved, a classic colour such as brown, blue or black are a safer bet. 

For some of us, keeping up with the latest fashion is important and that is what defines our style. For others it maybe a more measured approach and thinking more long term so preferring choose a classic style that is less lightly to age.

3. Consider the quality and value of the handbag

Well we all know there are handbags and there are handbags. The market is awash with cheap imports from the far east and of course they're fine as far as they go but you do tend to get what you pay for. However, there is something special about owning and using a quality product. Italy is famous the world over for its high quality leather goods and of course there's the added bonus of that Italian style thrown in. Their bags are beautifully handmade by skilled artisans using traditional methods and this kind of care and attention speaks volumes in the finished product. The leather is of the highest quality, using eco friendly vegetable tanned techniques and is guaranteed to be not only beautiful but very durable too. 

Other things to look out for that give the bag added value and functionality are zip pockets and additional compartments, shoulder straps and in the case of a lot of Pratesi bags, a handy internal LED light. 

If at the end of the day you've whittled it down to two and can't decide, why not treat yourself to both?