How this twin mom envisioned her bag display for over 30 luxury bags
You can call this spot her happy place
By Lena Kamarudin -
As a mother of twin girls, Niccole Chan hopes to someday share her bag collection with her daughters. When asked if she collects bags for investment, Niccole says: “My bags are a cherished assortment of beautiful things, and I collect them more for the sentimental value tied to special occasions or travel than investment potential.”
That is why she decided on a display-style glass cabinet when she was designing her bag wardrobe in her four-bedroom condo, as she loves switching up the bag display occasionally based on her mood. “I like to keep the display creative and dynamic as it elevates the aesthetic appeal of the room,” says Niccole.
Currently, Niccole has a collection of around 30 luxury handbags (some of her favourite brands include Dior, Chanel and Gucci). While she does not really focus on a specific brand when purchasing her handbags, she confesses that Dior handbags have an undeniable allure that resonates with her personal style. In fact, her most prized item in her bag collection is the Pink Butterflies Medium Dior Book Tote.
“Beyond its price tag, it is a sentimental one for me. I got this holiday capsule piece the year I became a mum,” she shares.
Niccole certainly has foresight when it comes to bags, as she designed her wardrobe with the intention of adding more to her collection. Like a true bag lover, she proclaims: “A girl can never have too many bags!”
Why did you decide to display your bags? Having the bags visible helps me mix and match outfits more easily. It also allows for quick access, which is essential when I’m in a hurry – especially with running a business and being a mum to twins.
How did you envision a space for your handbag collection? I wanted to make the entire wardrobe more functional and purposeful.
Why did you choose this design? I wanted to incorporate nude and beige tones to create a serene and harmonious space. This built-in wardrobe took about two months to construct. I wanted adjustable shelves so that I could change the height and spacing based on what I want to display. Also, enclosed cabinets – as opposed to open shelves – keeps dust away.
Do you prioritise which bags to showcase? I have a secondary bag wardrobe where I keep bags that I use less frequently; the bags here are packed compactly to maximise storage. I would switch up the bag display occasionally based on my mood to keep the display creative and dynamic.
How do you care for your luxury handbags? Stuffing and dust bags! All my bags are stuffed to help maintain their structure, and bags that are less frequently used are kept in dust bags.
What advice would you give to someone who’ sstarting a luxury bag collection? A black bag is extremely versatile, it not only complements your outfits easily, but also withstands the test of time in terms of style and durability
.Do you have a wish list of bags that you’d like to add to your collection? There are too many to put into the list, but I’m looking out for more evening bags or statement pieces that are unique and eye-catching, and can serve as conversation starters.