Hand bags were never my fashion weapon of choice, however I’ve recently opened my eyes wider to really take in their power. Yes it’s true, as many of us know, a great hand bag can really seal the deal on an amazing ensemble. I guess my little cross body, black zippered bag was enough for me all this time. Then I got an internship working with a hand bag company, and a CUTE hand bag company at that! Needless to say, hand bags came flooding into my life.

Big Buddha is owned by the ever popular Steve Madden, and is a vegan friendly hand bag company. Since I’ve been working for them, I’ve been so lucky to score samples for wholesale cost. Most of the bags retail for close to hundred dollars, but I’ve been collecting them at cost price, which is usually around 30 dollars. How could I resist? Especially on Sample Sale Friday which is when hundreds of showrooms in the California Mart, the New Mart and Cooper Design Space sell off last season’s samples. You can find incredible deals! Considering I’ve been running the sample sale for Big Buddha, I get first dibs on the collection of samples.

Here are a few items I’ve picked up so far:

Bondi, a cross body or shoulder bag depending on how you wear the chain.

Bailey, a navy blue clutch.

Tyler, an oversized black patent snakeskin tote that holds everything, including the kitchen sink! This bag was a gift from my boss on my first day.

Millie, a small, cross body bag that is super cute and perfect for the summer. Small bags are everywhere right now.

Talie is this gorgeous black clutch and the top part is covered with black gemstones of different sizes. My favorite clutch!

Ahhh yes, the Palm. This sweet bag has a woven chevron design on it, with two lovely tassles to sway with a brisk walk. I think this is my favorite bag of all the ones I’ve collected since working for Big Buddha.

I think I still have about a month left of interning, so I’m sure there will be more to collect! You can see all the current Big Buddha bags on their website here.