solutions for hardware issues & purses

I just got an email from a reader who asks:

“I purchased a Via Republica handbag a few months ago from Nordstroms and love it. Unfortunately one of the hardware screws fell out and the store says they just have to take the purse back and do not have a replacement for this exact one. Do you have any suggestions before I give up my favorite bag? ”

I’m not sure where to find the exact replicas of the missing screw, but I would recommend you take it to a good shoe-maker or even a horse supply store (tack or harness store)

A good shoe-maker may be able to repair it or find something close enough - I wouldn’t want to give up my favorite purse either!