Missing a Dust Bag or Strap? How to Complete Your Secondhand Designer Bag on eBay

Shopping secondhand for luxury bags is exciting, but many times the bag doesn’t come with all its original extras. Straps, dust bags, shopping bags, boxes, or charms might be missing. Completing your bag can:

Protect it better
Make it easier to use
Improve its resale value
Recreate the luxury unboxing experience

Luckily, eBay is a treasure trove for authentic and compatible accessories. Whether you’re missing the original or want to upgrade your bag, here’s what to look for and why it matters.

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1. Dust Bags (a.k.a. Drawstring Bags or Protective Pouches)

Dust bags are essential for protecting and preserving luxury bags. High-quality dust bags prevent scratches, minimize fading, and help bags maintain their shape during storage. They’re also part of the luxury experience — nobody wants to store a Chanel in a cheap polyester sack.

Recommended dust bags known for quality:

Bottega Veneta: Soft, thick cotton drawstring bags.
Aspinal of London: Well-stitched cotton pouches with durable closures.
Mulberry: Thick cotton with rich branding, perfect for structured bags.
Chloé: Lightweight but breathable — ideal for delicate leathers.

Some buyers even thrift 100% cotton pillowcases as an affordable alternative — they’re breathable and protective.

💡 Tip: Always check dimensions. A well-fitting storage pouch makes a huge difference in long-term care.

2. Replacement Straps (Crossbody, Shoulder Straps & Bag Handles)

Replacement straps restore a bag’s functionality and style. Without one, you’re limited in how you carry it.

Authentic straps keep resale value intact.
Some collectors hunt for special edition straps — like Loewe’s Spirited Away sprites or limited-run prints.
Replacements are perfect if the original strap is missing, worn out, or damaged.

💡 Tip: Match hardware color (gold, silver, antique brass) and leather type to keep the bag cohesive.

3. Alternative Straps & Strap Extenders

Sometimes it’s not about replacing what’s missing, but updating your bag for your lifestyle.

Strap extenders: Convert a short shoulder strap into a crossbody.
Alternative straps: Chain straps, guitar-style canvas, beaded, or resin straps are popular with vintage bags.
Mix & match: Adding a bold modern strap can refresh a classic vintage piece instantly.

💡 Tip: Try searches like “chain crossbody strap” or “Prada strap extender” for the best finds.

4. Boxes, Shopping Bags & Luxury Packaging

Boxes and shopping bags complete the luxury unboxing experience. They also protect your bag during storage or make resale and gifting feel premium.

Some boxes are highly collectible — think Loewe Tomato editions or Dior limited packaging.
Branded shopping bags and ribbons make secondhand purchases feel more boutique.
A sturdy box helps with safe storage, especially for structured bags.

💡 Tip: Factor in shipping costs for bulky boxes. Some sellers offer combined packaging sets at better value.

5. Care Booklets & Packaging Extras

Care booklets, ribbons, and branded tissue paper may seem small, but they help recreate the boutique experience. They also matter for resale — buyers love a “full set.”

Care guides explain cleaning and storage recommendations.
Branded ribbons and tissue paper make gifting secondhand bags extra special.
Collectors sometimes seek out rare packaging extras for limited editions.

💡 Tip: Booklets are safe to buy standalone — but avoid “authenticity cards,” as these can be misused with counterfeit bags.

6. Charms & Bag Accessories

Bag charms, keychains, and pendants are a fun way to personalize and update your bag.

Purse charms range from playful to luxurious.
Special editions (like Louis Vuitton fruits or Loewe Ghibli charms) are collectible.
They’re often swapped and styled across different bags to create a fresh look.

💡 Tip: Use keywords like “designer purse charm” or “handbag keychain pendant” when searching.

7. Clochettes & Keys

Clochettes (leather key covers) and padlocks are tiny details that complete luxury bags — especially Hermès and Louis Vuitton.

Hermès clochettes and keys are iconic for Birkin and Kelly bags.
Vintage Louis Vuitton bags often come with locks, which can be replaced.
They add resale value and make the bag feel more “complete.”

💡 Tip: Check that replacement locks and keys actually fit your bag model before buying.

How to Shop Smart

Search precisely: Use terms like “Chanel dust bag cotton” or “Prada leather crossbody strap.”
Check authenticity: Some items are generic — decide if you want originals.
Verify measurements: Especially for straps, extenders, and dust bags.
Set a budget: Dust bags may be inexpensive, but collectible boxes or straps can cost more.

Final Thoughts

Completing your secondhand designer bag is easier than ever with eBay. From cotton dust bags and replacement straps to charms, clochettes, and packaging extras, every detail makes your bag feel whole again.

It’s not just about resale value — it’s about protection, care, and joy. The right accessories can transform a bag from “almost perfect” into exactly what you dreamed of.

At The Find List, we’ll keep spotlighting the best accessories and hidden gems — because sometimes, the little things matter most.

Missing Dustbag or Strap? How to Handle Incomplete Designer Bags