Picture this: You’re in the checkout line at one of your tried-and-true thrift shops. You’ve collected quite the variety of business-cas pants, work blouses and accessories.
As you wait, you skim the inventory that the staff has stocked behind the counter. A few pieces catch your attention – a Coach monogram umbrella holds you captive; you go back and forth with whether to take the plunge…
And then, you spot this millennial charmer:
An authentic 2000s-era Gucci Crystal GG Monogram Medium Joy Shoulder Bag in Brown stares right back at you. The Crystal Joy Shoulder bag boasts gold-tone hardware, leather trimming and dual shoulder straps. This was my reality.
When I finally checked out, I did the full inspection. Checked for the authentication number, scoured the condition of the bag and validated that the “Gucci” branding was a buck. The asking price was $150. Pshhh… hesitation was non-existent.
I did a bit of research and discovered that my newest thrift grail originated from creative director Frida Giannini’s reign with Gucci. Released around Fall 2008, the fashion house dropped a limited edition “Crystal Collection” which featured the brand’s most-coveted silhouettes slathered with a luminous coated look.
A couple of the handbags from the collection were also uplifted on the Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear runway presentation, as seen on the models below.
What’s even more fascinating? These Gucci Crystal collection handbags are still being sold at pre-loved shops (The Real Real, Fashionphile, Tradesy) at ranges of $300 – $1,300. That’s insane!
I’ll take $150 any day. Let me tell you, don’t sleep on the thrift shop.
Photo Credits: Gucci Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear runway images via Vogue Runway; Featured Gucci image via PurseBlog; Joy Bag images via The Real Real
ESMESHA CAMPBELL - Lifestyle, Fashion Culture, and Beauty 