You might have seen the term “handbag divorce” pop up in the tabloids or social media. It’s not an official legal term, but it’s become a catchy way to describe short-lived, high-drama marriages often involving the rich and famous – where the split becomes all about designer handbags, flashy cars, and luxury lifestyles. In the UK, when a couple divorces, everything they own – yes, even that £15,000 Hermès bag – is potentially up for discussion. The law doesn’t care whose name is on the receipt. If it was bought during the marriage, it’s likely to be considered a shared asset.
But let’s be clear: courts don’t usually spend hours debating who gets the handbags or the artwork. Instead, judges look at the whole financial picture – homes, pensions, savings – and aim for fairness. Still, in high-net-worth cases, luxury items can take centre stage, either because of their value or the emotions attached. Sometimes, the real fight isn’t about the handbag at all. It’s about what it represents – status, control, or a sense of identity. And when emotions run high, even the smallest item can spark a legal tug-of-war. The takeaway? If you’re heading into marriage with valuable personal items, a prenuptial agreement might save a lot of hassle down the road. And if you’re going through a split, remember: it’s the big picture that counts – no matter how glamorous the details may seem.
Please contact our Head of Matrimonial Team Lisa Ridge on 01902 313311 or email lisaridge@thornessolicitors.co.uk for further information and advice.
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