Pumps & Pleats: My dream bag ain't so dreamy

Photo by Joe Maniscalco

Story by Michèle De Meglio

Every now and then, serious shoppers stumble on the most perfect find. It could be a fabulously flattering A-line dress, the most beautiful blue sapphire necklace or the comfiest Keds kicks.

Last weekend, it was a hobo handbag that spoke to me — literally.

Peeking out of the overflowing shelves at DSW in the Atlantic Terminal was a slouchy peach hobo with a braided strap. It seemed like the perfect purse to wear with spring’s sweet florals so I scooped it up.

Upon closer inspection, I discovered that the bag was designed by a company called Big Buddha. Gosh, this purse would represent peace and enlightenment. Cool!

I found another tag that listed the name of this particular style — Michelle.

It’s a Buddha bag for Michelle, uh, I mean Michèle (I’ve given up trying to find those tiny license plates with one ‘l’ and an accent mark). This thing was made especially for me!

Like all DSW handbags, this hobo was discounted. However, the drop from $100 to $60 was still way too much for a faux leather purse.

But then I caught sight of the shiny gold keychain attached to the strap bearing the words “Big Buddha.” This is a once in a lifetime opportunity! I have to buy it!

Last Sunday, I donned worn Levi’s, a periwinkle top with a delicate rose print and my favorite faux leather motorcycle jacket and proudly hoisted my new hobo on my shoulder. This outfit was the coolest mix of sweet and tough I’d ever seen.

There was just one problem — when I got home that night, I discovered black marks all over my peach bag. Apparently, the dark jacket stained the purse. Can you believe it?

On top of that, the hobo style was beyond slouchy. I felt like I was lugging a giant pillowcase stuffed with my most important belongings. It was impossible to find anything!

Sadly, my dream bag was more of a nightmare.

DSW [139 Flatbush Avenue between Atlantic and Fourth avenues in Prospect Heights, (718) 789-6973].

Michèle De Meglio is a native Brooklynite addicted to all things chic. Check out Pumps & Pleats each week for more adventures as she scours the borough for fab duds and accessories.