Tag Archives: NOLA

You know how some women have an unhealthy obsession with shoes? I have the same problem with purses. I am a purse addict. I had so many handbags a few years ago that Doug made me swear that I would not buy any more of them. Messenger bags, satchels, hobos, totes – I love them all. The bigger the better. (I’m a firm believer that bigger women should carry bigger bags – it looks more proportional.)

A couple of months ago, I was madly in love with the Mulberry Oversized Alexa bag. I’m still in love with it, as a matter of fact. However, my empty pocketbook (or should I say low on funds) was not in love with it. I’m not ashamed to say that I frequently look for “designer inspired” bags – that way I get the look I love without the exorbitant price tag. (I would never buy an out-and-out forgery, though.) I did a bit of digging online to find some similar styles, and found a great one on JCPenney that I ordered. Sadly, when they came in they were these teensy things that would barely hold my wallet and makeup bag. I just handed them back to the lady behind the counter and asked to return them.

On my way back from JCPenney, I decided to check out Purse Bag Pattie’s to see if they had any similar styles. The girl at the Covington store (which has since relocated to Amite) knew just what I was looking for, but she said they were out. A few text messages and a phone call later, she said that the Hammond store was holding my bag. I hopped in my car and drove right over to Hammond Square Mall.

When you walk in, you are greeted by a rainbow wall of colorful handbags in many different styles. A couch refurbished with old jeans is in the front of the store, and is surprisingly comfortable to sit on! The entire store has a feeling of “recycled chic”, but doesn’t seem cluttered or stuffy at all. It is actually very open and bright.

Their selection is fantastic – lots of styles in an assortment of colors! The majority of their stuff runs about $45 to $50 – AND you either get a free wallet with each purse, or a discount on your bag! They also have a ton of fleur-de-lis bags, bedazzled with crystals. Not my thing, but I know quite a few ladies that like that look. They also carry some name-brand bags – some designers they have are Chinese Laundry, Nicole Lee, and Rampage.

This vending machine carried wallets! You just chose the one you wanted, pressed the keys, and BAM out comes a wallet! How cute is that?

Here’s my sweet Alexa-esque bag that I picked up – black with gunmetal findings.

And on my next trip, I picked up this awesome red bag with gold findings! I’ve been looking at getting a red bag for a while, and I love the color. This will work for any season!

If you are as hooked on handbags as I am, but don’t feel like breaking the bank, drive up to Hammond and check them out! It doesn’t hurt that there is also an ULTA and a TJ Maxx right there, too – and a short drive away you can grab lunch in downtown Hammond, which is simply adorable. (I suggest Mariners Inn – fantastic burgers!)

Purse Bag Pattie’s
450 Palace Drive (in Hammond Square Mall)
Hammond, LA 70403
(985) 345-3200
Monday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sundays 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Disclaimer – this endorsement is not sponsored or paid for in any way.