Minimalist Monday: How Many Handbags?

Thanks to Project 333 I'm gradually paring down my wardrobe season by season but I still have something of a handbag obsession. Whenever I get the occasional urge to buy something I don't need it's usually a handbag. There are simply so many stunning designs. I like classic handbags and I like alternatives such as satchels. So, when it comes to handbags and minimalism I think I must declare myself a bit of a fraud. 

I've read many times about the 'rule of one' but one handbag can neither be practical enough, versatile enough or glamorous enough for my lifestyle and taste. I like my pared down wardrobe and will happily reach for the same handbag day after day but occasionally it feels good to have a change. 

I coped easily with two handbags during Project 333. I chose my classic black cross body bag which suits me because it's light, practical and goes with everything. My second choice was my favourite silver clutch which is equally versatile and co-ordinates well with most things. I think two handbags is the lowest I could go. 

However, there are times when I need something a little bigger or lighter in colour for spring and summer. This is why I have two other standbys that I'm reluctant to let go of even after the, “Could I live without this?" , conversation that I often have with myself.

My third handbag is my Cath Kidston day bag. It's great for times when you need to pack a book or a small amount of paperwork and the subdued (for CK) design goes well with most outfits. Annoyingly though, there are no internal compartments only two useful end bits but otherwise this is my luxury handbag and the one that puts a spring in my step.

My fourth handbag is a Carvisa taupe bag (bought on holiday in Ibiza two years ago). I like its two handles, the colour is great for spring and summer and it has good outer and inner compartments. I don't use it during autumn and winter because its colour and canvas type material don't really suit colder, harsher weather.

Owning four handbags may not be viewed as minimalistic by some but it is the right number for me at the moment - enough to meet my practical needs and my fashion needs. Four is a lot less than I used to have. I intend keeping these for as long as they last mainly because they get plenty of wear. If they get too worn I may not replace each one. In the future I think I can realistically get down to two bags – one great day bag and one gorgeous evening bag. 

In the meantime I shall still dream about handbags and envy handbags from afar. But I won't impulse buy handbags any more in search of the one perfect bag because it's an expensive and never ending quest.

How about you? Do you have handbag envy? Is there a perfect handbag? How many handbags do you use or own? 

Please share.