What Style Of Handbag Should I Use?

October 20, 2010 No Comments

Whenever choosing the right handbag - women often find themselves ending up with one they are not comfortable with. With so many unique styles and shapes, it is not easy to get one that feels comfortable or for the right occasion..

As we know – each kind of bag has its positive aspects that others do not have. In fact I have at least 7 handbags in the bottom of my wardrobe that I am not keen on for one reason and another. For example – one of them is a black patent handbag which is too square and not only does it seem to fit right on my hip, but annoyingly swings from side to side when I walk!! Also – a patent bag tends to show up every speck of dust and finger print – hence you can end up forever polishing it with your jacket sleeve.

A handbag for a woman needs to feel good like a well-fitted pair of jeans -so let’s discuss a few different styles and what they are best suited for:

Satchel Bag

This is a rather studious looking bag which can often be mistaken for a briefcase – particularly if it is on the large size, leather, and rectangular looking. If you are of small stature – beware as these often come with very long straps, even when they are adjusted to the smallest length and worn diagonally across the body. The strap of a satchel bag is always used diagonally crosses the body by the person. These types of bags are great for books and are easy to access with a generous top opening flap.

Clutch bag

These are ultimately and elegantly designed as the ‘evening handbag’. These can often be seen lying on the dance floor – under the watchful eye of their gyrating female owner. They are often used for formal parties and events as they need to look elegant and feminine, but at the same time unobtrusive and clumsy. Whatever outfit you are wearing you will easily find a clutch bag to match your outfit. For example – some come in shiny golden, silver or metallic colours, often small and petite – so you won’t have to rummage around for lipstick.

Tote Handbag

A tote handbag may be the largest handbag among those distinct fashion designer handbags. It is mainly used to hold file binders, books, and other hefty everyday items. Also useful if you have a baby or toddler as it will hold juice cups bottle, nappies, toys – as well as your brolly! – Oh – and great for shopping items and a trip to the beach too. They are mostly made of canvas, nylon, or leather. If you buy the right one – you can still appear chic and fashionable.

Hobo Bag

Hobo bags come in that familiar crescent shape and are designed to be soft and roomy. They are popular among Hollywood celebrities that like boho-chic styles such as – Josh Stone and Sienna Miller. The handles are often shorter that your typical handbag and sit comfortably just above the waist. Because of their shape – it is amazing how much you can cram into it!