WOC: three of PurseBop’s favorite letters. If you haven’t heard of WOCs before, let’s refresh. The WOC is the Wallet on Chain, aka one of the most beloved styles here in the handbag universe. Whether we call them bags or accessories—the jury’s still out!—WOCs are undeniably elegant, versatile, and perfectly representative of mini mania. In fact, there’s a special craze just for WOCs themselves.
But just because they’re ever-so-popular, does that mean they’re perfect for you? Is it the right time to add a WOC (or another WOC) to your collection? Would a WOC satisfy your handbag desires? Join us as we journey through PurseBop’s detailed Q&A, inspired by your own questions throughout the years, just to make sure you know all the ins and outs of the WOC. After all, knowledge is power!
@missyanacherie
"Is the WOC actually the perfect starter bag?"
If you haven’t read it already, A Millennial’s Perspective: Bag Shopping is the perfect intro to this question. If this is your first (or one of your first) forays into the world of luxury bags, there are a few things to consider. First, if owning a bag from one of the most exclusive brands, like Chanel, is important to you, a WOC may be the way to go. WOCs are solid entry-level bags to such brands. A Chanel WOC is $2,500, while a medium Classic Flap is $5,300—an entirely different price point.
However, it’s important to keep in mind the size of the WOC. While WOCs may be elegant and timeless, they are in fact quite small. Do you want to tote around your starter bag for everyday errands, carry it to work or take it on a night on the town? What time of day is it most important for you to have a luxury bag? These are the questions that should inform the early stages of your bag journey.
Additional reading:
@hallobeanme
@bohegirl
"Are WOCs practical?"
PurseBop’s take? Yes. But as true mini bags, WOCs are, well, mini. If you often don’t take much with you, you’re good to go. Some lipstick, keys, phone, cash? Perfect. Additionally, as you might expect from a wallet, the interior compartments of WOCs generally have credit card slots and change compartments. So if organization is your thing, you’re in luck, and you can forget about the makeup bag and additional wallet.
That said, we can’t overemphasize the size issue. It really depends on how minimalist you are. If having more possessions with you on a regular basis is important to you, a WOC may not be as practical as a larger crossbody. On the other hand, a WOC could inspire you to pare down.
Additional reading:
@la.vie.est.belle70
@thecloudberry
"Are WOCs useful for travel?"
If you’re carrying multiple bags with you—and that’s easy with bag nesting!—a WOC is definitely a formidable travel companion. When you’re traveling, you often want to forget the hassle of day-to-day life and just experience new places. And now that we don’t generally need to carry maps with us, a phone, cards and some cash are really all we need when setting out to explore a foreign city for the day. A WOC couldn’t be more perfect: it’s slim instead of bulky, light and adds a touch of fashionista glamor to an easy travel outfit.
Additional reading:
@siradong
@better_things_in_life
"What are the best WOC brands?"
While a number of luxury brands offer lovely WOCs (think Prada, Gucci, Balenciaga and Chloé), there are two in particular that vie for the WOC crown: Chanel and Saint Laurent. (Read: Chanel vs. YSL Wallet on Chain Comparison (WOC)) When you spot a WOC on IG, it’s almost always one of these two brands. To put it simply, these French maisons have the WOC market cornered.
Whether you prefer the modern, fresh look of the Saint Laurent WOC, with its bold logo, or the timeless feel of Chanel’s take, you simply can’t go wrong with either. (Tell us, do you prefer one over the other?)
Additional reading:
@missyanacherie
@missyanacherie
"Should I, ultimately, add a WOC to my collection?"
By now, it’s no secret that PurseBop has a soft spot for the WOC in its many forms. We even included it on our list of 10 staple bags!
After asking yourself difficult questions about your current needs and desires—ones that are carefully tailored to your collection—are you still feeling enticed by WOCs? While we’ve provided a Q&A for you, many of our answers have directed questions back to you and the current stage of your handbag journey. If you’re still feeling the pull of “yes” at this point, you may have gained some insight into your next step…
(And if you do proceed to the buying stage, there’s nothing more we’d love than for you to let us know your choice—or for you to ask for advice in the decision-making process!)
Additional reading:
@mrs.tf.style
@bohegirl
Interested in looking for a WOC now? Check out PurseBop's Picks!
Gucci GG Marmont Chevron Quilted Leather Flap Wallet on a Chain via Neiman Marcus
Saint Laurent Monogram Croc Embossed Calfskin Wallet on a Chain via Nordstrom
Prada Wallet On A Chain Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag via Net-a-Porter
Balenciaga Bazar Printed Leather Wallet on a Chain via Nordstrom
Chloé Faye Suede/Leather Wallet-on-a-Strap via Neiman Marcus
Are you feeling the WOC fever? Or do you find WOCs too small for you liking? Are there any questions we missed? And are there any tips you’d give potential WOC buyers yourself?
Let us know below, dear WOC lovers (and WOC foes).
Read related articles below:
The Mighty Wallet on Chain (WOC)
Chanel vs. YSL Wallet on Chain Comparison (WOC)
The Chanel Wallet on Chain and 10 Affordable WOC Alternatives
WOC Wonder: Prada Saffiano Lock Leather Wallet on Chain
A Millennial’s Perspective: Bag Shopping
10 Staple Bags You Should Invest In
Travel Guide 2017: The Do’s and Don’ts
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Updated: February 28th, 2019
Comments
1 Responses to “All the WOC Questions You’ve Been Dying to Ask”
I love my Fendi WOC! With all of the rules on bag size at large venues these days, it’s the perfect thing to bring to sporting events and concerts. I’m already pondering my next WOC purchase…..