How To Organize the Handbags, Totes, & Clutches

Did you know there was a National Handbag Day?  Seriously, an entire day dedicated to handbags! I’ve never loved clothing like some women… but a pretty handbag? Why yes, thank you!

Because I’m not one to hang onto things, it’s a one-in, one-out rule for most things in my closet.  But handbags are different. They can make (or break) an outfit. (Ok, so maybe not my Chaos t-shirt and leggings look but ANY other outfit!) I tend to hang onto them probably longer than I should because I like classic styles. The few trendier, less expensive styles stay through a season or two.  I have a patent leather clutch that was my Grandmothers. It’s definitely one of my favorite items in my closet that will never leave.

To start organizing your handbags, be sure to have an honest talk with yourself.  Let’s be real, no matter how much you paid for that handbag, if you keep skipping over it, you know it needs to go. Stop obsessing about what you paid for it and keep moving forward.

Pro Tip: Donating handbags is great for your local community, but there are plenty of thrift stores that would love to buy your gently used designer bags.  Be sure to look into both options. The extra money could come in handy for that next bag you love.

How does one keep the handbags organized?  Well, let’s take a look at some options!

If you have a large closet with ampules of closet hanging space, and frequently change handbags, hanging them could be a great option.  It’s tidy, easy to use and keeps the handbags from having that nasty crease mark when they flop over. These hooks are from The Container Store and you can find them here.

If you have less closet space, an acrylic organizer might be a good fit like this one from The Container Store.  Here is a great example. The clutches and small purses can fit below while the larger satchels can live next to or on top of the organizer.  It would help keep the dust off the clutches as well. The openings could be labeled so that each clutch has its own space.

The way I store my handbags is with a shelf divider like this one from Target.

I stuff the larger, more flimsy handbags with tissue so they stand up and contain them between the shelf dividers.  My clutches are lined up in a small basket.

There is also the @Bed, Bath and Beyond “Park a Purse” Clutch and Purse divider that looks interesting.   Being able to stack the bags would be helpful in a small closet. I haven’t used one yet, but it has great reviews! You can find it here.

And lastly, if you are still struggling with storage, you can always look for ideas at your local boutiques.

This idea came from Edit by LBP in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

So you see, there are as many handbag organizing options as there are handbags themselves. I hope one of these ideas gets you inspired to evaluate and organize your handbag collection.  If you get stuck or need assistance, give us a call!

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