outgrown
I used this bag to death after I received it as a birthday present in 2008, and it shows. It looks battered, there’s a hole where the corner of my laptop always rubbed it, and the colour has faded a bit – it hasn't quite been the same since I brought on a beach holiday where the sun and the saltwater got to it.
I loved the roominess, the cute balloon-like shape, and the bright colour, and I remember finding it incredibly practical for work and weekends.
I have since acquired a few more bags, and have been using this less frequently. In fact, I haven’t used it at all this year. So I thought I would revive it today and brought it out with much anticipation, having missed its cerulean hue.
30 minutes after I left the house, I wished I hadn't. I found the handles far too small to sit comfortably on my shoulder, compared to the generous shoulder straps of the other bags I’ve been using recently. I was annoyed I had to bring out a second pouch in my bag, because the bag has no internal pockets for the things I usually chuck in there, except for a small slot for my mobile phone. This being a yoga day, I was carrying my packed lunch in a separate carrier and I felt more cumbersome than usual because the bag did not hang securely from my shoulder.
I carried this bag almost every day for three years, without complaint. I still love the shape and colour, and I don't mind how worn it looks, but it lacks the ease I’m accustomed to from my other bags. I suppose the bag wasn't perfect to begin with (sidetrack: why are Longchamp Pliage bags so expensive when they don't hold up all that well?).
I still expect to find this bag reasonably useful to keep around (it folds away nicely for holidays and is perfect for the beach), but its staple days look to be over.
Isn’t it sad to grow out of things you once loved? What are some much-loved things you guys have grown out of?
Comments
The other thing about organization, I tried looking for sub-pouch that I can simply toss in another bag that has the small things so the lack of pocket would not affect the use as much, it does somewhat help because it gives you a sense of more consistency (and my mom swears by the organization pouch from Muji).
Having emotional connections to at least some of my clothes makes me hopeful that not all of my style choices are meaningless and superficial. In this disposable world of ours, I really like the feeling you get when you don't want to throw something away.
and that is a fine shade of blue...i must add...;))
Alex: I don't think I've grown out of this bag, style-wise, it's just somehow become less practical. That said, I've definitely worn some things I've happily left behind.
Nanashi: I can handle having one pouch in my bag for things I don't need to keep taking in and out of my bag, but I still need some kind of inner pocket for my phone and transport pass otherwise I go crazy.
The Waves: I agree, although I'm not much of a keeper when it comes to clothes. The things I have kept are mainly bags and jewellery that were gifts. I find that most of my things with sentimental value I manage to keep wearing or using them, and everything else I've given away I don't especially miss.
Nicole: I love the colour too, and it actually goes very well with nearly everything I own. I wish I made clothes that well....I lack the discipline to really knucnkle down to learn how to get good at it.
La Fleur: I think If I ever got another I would get the ones with the longer shoulder straps...but since they are not especially durable, I'm definitely going to think twice about it first. I still really love the shape. I'm also very fond of a Longchamp messenger bag that I use almost daily.
If Jane: Four! Wow. I love that they always make one a colour I love every season.
Right now I'm using a sturdy canvas tote with major structure.
I have a longchamp along on my trip now, as a carry-on tote.
I outgrew my converse.
Editor: I'm definitely still keeping this one - I like how light and waterproof they are too. I think the design is timeless - one with a longer strap would suit my lifestyle better though.
Lindsay K: I definitely would think twice about paying full price for them now - I suppose they're just not meant for laptops. My sister uses one in flat, oblong shape for her laptop that holds up well enough though...