My life in a bag

with marlieke koks

This pretty bag is just as pretty as its owner Marlieke Koks. Marlieke is based in Amsterdam and runs her own blog called Cotton & Cream which unfortunately is only in Dutch, but worth visiting just to be inspired by all her photos. Curious to know more about her bright red beauty? Continue along here.

How many bags do you own?

‘For as long as I can remember. I’ve always been addicted to bags. When I was younger I had an uncanny collection of bags in all color, shapes and sizes and I was incapable of ever getting rid of anything. A few years ago I finally decided it was time for some bag spring cleaning and nowadays I’ve decided to go for quality over quantity and have about 15 bags left.’

What’s the story behind this bag?

‘The motto ‘work hard, play hard’ is one I chose to live by. Anytime I’ve achieved something I’m really proud of, I treat myself to something nice. The past few years that something nice has come in the form of a designer bag. It’s a long term investment and I love the idea of knowing I’ve worked hard for it. It adds to the story and that’s why I love extending my collection (even if it means living off of bread and water for a few days…) and I plan on handing them down to my daughter if I ever have one. I gifted myself this bright red Valentino Lock Bag after having worked hard for a year.’

How well do you take care of your bags?

‘I’m very careful with all my “pretty” bags like this Valentino, and I often refer to them as my babies. Anytime I take them out, I check the weather forecast first or make sure it’s not one of those days I might spontaneously end up at a bar. Any spills on my bag, or scratches, will literally make me cry.’

What about the content?

‘The contents of my bags – just like most women – is pretty messy, haha. I tend to switch up the bags I use very often and whenever I do so, I try to clean them up a bit. I always make sure the inside of my bags stay clean and neat.’

What do you always carry around with you?

‘I’m nothing without an extra charger for my phone. I don’t ever leave the door without one. I go crazy if I can’t go online. Besides that, I’ve always got lipstick and nail polish with me (red, always a good choice) for quick pre-dinner touch ups.’

What do you think are the best qualities of a bag?

‘I think the ideal bag is a classic and chic one so that it suits any outfit you’ve got on – even ripped jeans and sneakers – and gives it a stylish boost. I think the Chanel 2.55 is the perfect example. And then preferably in black or in a bold color. The size of the bag is important too. Take the Wallet on a Chain for example, it’s too small to use on a daily basis, that’s why I always use it for dinner dates or nights out because the only things that fit in there are my iPhone and lipstick.’

What do you still have on your wish list?

‘Oh, too many to mention! I love the Chloé Drew Bag in a pastel color plus I would still love a Saint Laurent cross body.’