Designer Handbags Are Investments But You Can Still Get One for Less

More people are buying high-end handbags again as economic uncertainty wanes and consumer confidence grows. But that doesn't mean everyone's buying a new one each season; consumers are still shopping conservatively and trying to make their handbags last. Here's how to get a designer bag for less -- and take proper care of it so it lasts. BANG FOR YOUR BUCK: If you're hard on your belongings, or you measure longevity in decades instead of years, it may make the most sense for you to go right to the source and spend a little more up front. From Louis Vuitton to Coach Inc., specialty retailers always carry a variety of their own latest bags. Even better, some makers will repair their wares at little or no charge. Michael Kors will repair a defect for free within the first year; Kate Spade will make free repairs for manufacturer defects within two years. And Coach Inc. will make any needed repairs for a $20 shipping and handling charge for as long as you own one of its bags (and many other Coach products, according to the company's website). Beauty and fashion expert Rebekah George advises knowing repair policies before you buy and holding onto receipts, just in case you ever have a problem. But if you want to save up front there are lots of options.