Brighton Collectibles launches 27th annual handbag trade-in

Brighton Collectibles is running its 27th annual Handbag Trade-In from July 24 through Aug. 9, aiming to collect 15,000 gently used handbags and donate them to women in need. Shoppers can trade in any brand of handbag for up to $50 off a new Brighton bag, or donate a bag without making a purchase.

Why it matters: - The handbag drive turns unused accessories into direct support for women who need clothing and confidence for work and daily life. - Brighton Collectibles is using the promotion to extend its long-running charitable brand identity while driving store traffic during a limited-time event. - The program also channels donated handbags to women who may benefit from practical goods and a small financial break on a new purchase.

What happened: - Brighton Collectibles launched its 27th annual Handbag Trade-In on July 24, 2026. - The event runs through Aug. 9. - Shoppers can bring gently used handbags to participating Brighton Collectibles stores. - Participants can receive up to $50 off a new Brighton bag. - Any manufacturer's handbag qualifies for the discount. - Customers can also donate a handbag without making a purchase. - Brighton set a goal of collecting 15,000 handbags in 10 days. - A list of participating stores is available at Brighton.

The details: - The donated handbags will go to women who are struggling. - Founder Jerry Kohl said the gift of a handbag can help a woman feel more confident when interviewing for a job. - Brighton says the Handbag Trade-In is one of several charitable efforts it runs each year under #BrightonGivesBack. - The company has donated more than $10 million to groups including the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Soles4Souls, Little Kids Rock, Dress for Success and other local charities that help women re-enter the workforce. - Brighton says it has focused on custom design and craftsmanship for 50 years. - The company says it operates 100 stores and supports the communities around them.

Between the lines: - The campaign blends philanthropy with a purchase incentive, a model that can expand both donations and sales at the same time. - The emphasis on women returning to work suggests Brighton is tying the promotion to a broader economic and social need, not just a product giveaway. - The company is leaning on its customer base to sustain a recurring charitable program that has become part of its brand story.

What's next: - Brighton will continue accepting handbags at participating stores until Aug. 9. - The company will tally donations against its 15,000-bag target over the 10-day campaign. - Additional store and product information is available at the company's website.

The bottom line: - Brighton’s annual handbag drive gives shoppers a discount, funnels used bags to women in need and reinforces the company’s long-running giving strategy.