The ordinary task of cleaning out one’s closet and organising stuff in the house are chores you wish you’d never have to do. It’s too overwhelming, would require long hours, and, not to mention, dusty. These are just a couple of things that I dreaded doing the last time I moved (seems like I’ve been packing and unpacking a lot since I turned 25, gah). However, the task had rewarded me by unearthing hidden treasures.

My heart couldn’t resist skipping a beat. Old bags! Vintage bags at that. Plus an adorable coin purse (mum’s), which I can’t help but wonder how it could ever fulfill it’s purpose — too narrow to keep more than a handful of folded dough, much less some change. Precious, precious finds! What joy!

Looking at all these pieces, I can’t help but wonder how I could’ve forgetten that my mum had them. Some are mine, one I still use on occasion, and they bring back memories of when I used to use them. I remember I brought the big Esprit handbag to my first trip to Singapore back in 1999. The small Esprit handbag was a gift from my sister when she came home from the US back in 1998 (or was it 1997? I’ve forgotten.). The white silver and sequined clutch was a favourite of my mum’s for formal occasions then and I remember my sister using the black beaded purse when she attended her highschool prom.

They need major cleaning, esp the clutch bags, before they can join the rest of the bags in my closet. Once that’s done, I reckon it’s just a matter of time before I end up airing them again. I hope they’d survive the exposure.

These couldn’t come at a better time. They’ve managed to add some depth and variance to my now growing bag collection. Don’t you just love it when you find out that there’s a fashion treasure hidden right under your nose? Authentically vintage and has a sentimental value that adds to its allure.

What about you folks? Found anything which you never noticed that you had lately? Share!

P.S. I’m considering putting the big Esprit handbag on eBay. You reckon it’ll sell? I’d appreciate your input!

Photo © 2009 Sasha Manuel