3 ways to breathe new life into an old handbag

This bag and I have been going through life together since 2017. And I’m not the only one whose appearance has changed during our seven-year relationship. Life hasn’t left my little, black bucket bag unscathed. Here and there, the crocodile-style faux leather has become quite scuffed – especially on the handle. But is this enough to ditch it or even chuck it out? Absolutely not!

True to the motto separation anxiety necessity is the mother of invention, I’ve perfected three easy DIY hacks that will allow me to enjoy «my old friend» for a long time to come.

Version 1: from bucket to crossbody

Every now and then – especially when I want to keep my hands or the crook of my arm free – I swipe the shoulder strap from another bag in my collection. Clipped to my bucket bag, it gives it a sportier look and transforms its functionality. Instead of always having to hold the bag or having it dangle off the crook of my arm, I can wear it across my body thanks to the adjustable strap.

Variant 2: a neckerchief works wonders

Summer is a particularly good time to give this simple bag a facelift (or more accurately, a handle lift). Fortunately, this doesn’t involve anything drastic. All I need is a cheerful, brightly coloured neckerchief. First, I fold it into a triangle, then roll it up from the tip into a narrow ribbon. After that, I tie the ribbon to one end of the handle and wrap the neckerchief around it until it’s completely covered. At the other end, a second knot secures the neck scarf, keeping my bag’s summer alter ego in place.

Version 3: ready, steady, bling

I need a different kind of material for this version. From simple chain links to braided paracord, I’ve repurposed numerous things into handles. The look I like best, however, is this one using different-sized beads from my craft box. With the help of two little snap hooks, the beaded necklace can be attached to my bucket bag in no time at all, transforming it into a cool piece of bling.