When it comes to keeping all the essentials in one place, a handbag is undoubtedly a woman’s best friend. For a lot of women, a new handbag is among the most satisfying purchase they can make. However, even if there is a plethora of options in the market, it can still be challenging to find the right handbag for yourself.
Sometimes, women are more focused on the hot styles and designs of handbags and are into following the latest fashion trends without considering if the handbags are suitable for them. This is probably among the most common mistakes that they make. Instead of choosing a handbag that matches their style and body type, they go after the brands, latest designs, and most popular styles just to be in step with the hottest trend in fashion.
Trendy styles of handbags are very tempting, especially designer ones. However, they are not suitable for everyone. Beauty is not all there is when it comes to choosing a handbag, whether it is for casual, office, formal, or sports purposes. If you are thinking of buying a new handbag soon but can’t decide yet what to buy, we are here to help you. In this post, we are giving you a guide to picking a new handbag.
Things to Consider When Picking a New Handbag
There are times when our excitement about getting a new handbag is matched only by the despair of discovering that it is not big enough to fit all of our essential items. A good handbag not only has to hold the things we need to bring, but it should go with everything that we wear and stand the test of time as fashion trends continue to change. In order to choose a new handbag well, below are some of the things that you might want to consider:
1. Size and Weight
When choosing a new handbag, one of the most important aspects that you should keep in mind is the right size. If you are looking into storing more items, it is not necessary to go for an oversized or bulky handbag. What you need to look for is a spacious one. Aside from the size, you also need to consider the weight of the handbag. Avoid buying heavy ones to prevent stress and pain in your shoulders and arms.
2. Shape
Another preference before buying a handbag is choosing the best shape for your figure. Remember that carrying a handbag that is proportioned with your body shape is one of the ways to look fashionable and stylish, as it enhances and changes your overall look. Therefore, when picking a new handbag, ensure that it is the opposite of your body type. For example, if you are tall and slim, choosing a round bag can best match your look. But if you have a shorter physique, picking a tall and rectangular bag is suitable to make you look taller.
3. Quality
If you are going to spend your hard-earned money on a handbag, you need to ensure that the one you are picking is worth every penny with its quality. It is fine to spend a litte extra cash on a handbag of supreme quality. This is because the longevity of such bags is higher compared to more affordable ones. When picking a new handbag, make sure to check the stitching around each and every corner along with the zippers. If you are purchasing online, checking the reviews is an important step that you should not forget.
4. Material
The material of the handbag depends on your usage. Some of the most preferred ones in the market are handbags made of cruelty-free materials. For example, vegan leather is a reasonable handbag material. It is durable and has a wider aesthetic scope compared to the original leather ones. There are also some brands that are taking the route of innovating Jute bags that are also environment-friendly and stylish.
5. Compartments
Handbags that have fewer compartments seem handy. However, multi-compartment handbags are an advantage when it comes to reaching for an essential inside the bag during an emergency situation. Therefore, it is better to consider the number of compartments in order to keep your things organized and find them when you need them.
6. Versatility
A handbag should be versatile enough in order to transform it easily and accordingly with your outfits. For daily travel, you can never go wrong with tote bags. They are equally stylish and will allow you to manage all your work essentials easily. There are also convertible bags that you can transform the looks easily by adding or removing straps. When choosing a handbag, pick one that is dressy such that it reflects well with work attire, soft enough to match your casual outfit, and one that matches your color palette to avoid a clash with the outfit.
7. Color
Your personality can be defined by colors, and this plays an important role in setting the tone for the day. Handbags that have neutral colors like brown, white, and black can complement any outfit you have. Black is the most sought-after color of a handbag. But a lot of people also love pastel and bold shades. If you love bold colors, you can opt for handbags in colors red and blue, or pastel colors like grey and dust pink, for daily use at work. If you are a frequent buyer, you might also go with the ongoing color trends in the market.
8. Price
Of course, the price of the handbag is a crucial factor that needs to be taken into consideration. There are handbags that could be over-priced, and it is better if you can compare them with more options. Try to research the current market price while making the decisions.
9. Be Ready to Compromise
When picking a new handbag, it is better to consider the kind of lifestyle that you have and not the lifestyle you think your dream bag will convey. After that, split the difference. For instance, if you love ladylike top-handle bags, try to choose one that can be wiped clean with minimal effort or one that doubles up as a backpack.
The Different Types of Handbags
When looking to buy a new handbag, make sure that you pick a reliable one that can keep your belongings safe and will serve you for as long as possible. Given the many different types of handbags in the market today, picking the best one can sometimes become overwhelming. To help you, we are going to provide you with more information about the different types of handbags you can choose from.
1. Shoulder Bag
The shoulder bag is also referred to as the everyday bag. Among the many types of handbags, this is probably the most functional. Every brand has its own variants of shoulder bags, making it more challenging to resist buying multiple ones from different brands. Shoulder bags are spacious, and most may fit in all the essentials you need for a day at work, school, or when running errands.
Shoulder bags are quite similar to messenger bags and satchels. But the main difference is the design. It’s because shoulder bags that fall under the handbag category are mainly stylish and serve as an accessory first, which can enhance a person’s appearance and boost her confidence. Below are some examples of shoulder bags to help you choose:
- NIUEIMEE ZHOU Shoulder Bag for Women: This shoulder bag is made from 100% premium vegan leather, and it has polyester lining. It is designed with custom gold hardware, making it look more elegant. Its main pocket can fit all essential items, such as wallets, phones, keys, sunglasses, and more. It also has one exterior back zipper pocket. The strap of this handbag is also removable, and it comes with a longer shoulder strap.
- GEEMONT Women’s Shoulder Bag: This shoulder bag has a vintage design. It features a hasp and magnetic closure to keep your belongings safe. Its style and design make it easy to match with any type of outfit, whether you are wearing a dress or trousers. The main compartment of this handbag can fit your cell phone, wallet, cards, keys, and makeup, which is perfect for everyday use.
- PS PETITE SIMONE Small Shoulder Bag: This shoulder bag is a versatile choice as it has a convertible design. It can be used in four different styles. It also has a water-resistant design made of high-quality PU leather fabric. It can be used on different occasions, such as for parties, dates, work, travel, and shopping. It is spacious enough to keep all your essentials within reach while providing you a stylish look.
2. Satchel
Satchel pertains to large and sturdy handbags that feature a flat and wide bottom. The main opening of the bag is covered by a flap, and it usually comes with two handles. But it does not actually have to come with a flap and two handles, but it does in most cases. Satchels also come with a long shoulder strap so you can hang them on your shoulder. They are a larger type of handbag and are mostly used for carrying bulkier items, such as laptops, books, and files.
Below are some examples of satchel handbags to help you pick:
- KPL Leather Satchel Handbag: This handbag is made from full-grain leather, and it is lined with durable olive green canvas. It is handcrafted by artisans who have been working with leather for decades. It features a concealed lock under the main buckle for easy access. It is large in size and can carry iPads, phones, books, and other everyday essentials.
- Calvin Klein Reyna Novelty Satchel: This satchel bag can be used in two ways. You can carry it as you might purses or handbags or strap it over your shoulders like a crossbody bag. It is made from high-quality vegan leather. It has a lot of pockets, making it a good handbag for everyday use.
- Kate Spade New York Staci Leather Satchel Purse: This handbag is made of imported saffiano leather. It has a two-way spade jacquard lining and a zip closure. It is big and spacious enough to fit daily items, such as cell phones, wallets, books, and tablets.
3. Sling Bag
Sling bags are also called crossbody bags. It is a functional, comfortable, and stylish type of handbag that is perfect to be used for shopping, traveling, and running errands. It is a good choice, especially if you are often with kids when traveling to places. Sling bags come in various sizes and designs. Below are a few examples to help you pick:
Mroede Sling Bag for Women: This handbag is made of vegan PU leather, making it lightweight, water-resistant, and comfortable to use. It has an adjustable shoulder strap that features retro embroidery for added style. This bag can fit your keys, sunglasses, tissue, small mirror, wallet, and other essentials. It is also versatile as it can be used as a sling bag, satchel bag, or shoulder bag.
Peyorom Small Sling Bag for Women: This sling bag is made of premium faux leather, and it features gold-tone hardware. It is soft and waterproof, making it a great everyday handbag for women. Its shoulder strap is comfortable to wear as it is wider and adjustable.
INICAT Small Sling Bag: This sling bag is a great choice for minimalists. It is a simple and small sling bag that can store your cards, keys, cash, and other small items. It can be a small crossbody purse that you can wear or a cross-chest bag, which is great for traveling.
4. Clutch Bag
Clutch bags are also referred to as purses. They are among the smallest types of handbags that you can buy. They are very stylish and are perfect for special occasions like parties and formal gatherings. Some clutch bags come with small wrist straps, while others come with detachable shoulder straps or chains. But some neither have straps nor chains, which you need to fully carry by your hand. Since clutch bags or purses are small, you can only carry a limited amount of small items with you, such as cards, cash, and a smartphone.
Below are some examples of clutch bags to help you choose:
- Charming Tailor Classic Pleated Clutch Bag: This is an evening bag made of high-quality satin, making it silky and solid. Its pleat details also give a classy and elegant vibe to your outfit. It has a metal frame covered with satin fabric, and its top metal block closure is encrusted with sparkling diamonds, making it a simple but gorgeous evening clutch bag. It can fit small essentials like tissue, makeup, cards, keys, and a phone.
- Covelin Envelope Rhinestone Clutch Bag: This clutch bag is made of PU leather and is designed with rhinestones on one side. It has a magnet hook closure, keeping your essentials safe. It has a stunning look and is roomy enough to fit your phone, lipstick, keys, cards, and change. It also comes with a removable chain.
- J-BgPink Envelop Clutch Bag: This evening clutch bag is designed to put a wallet, sunglass, phone, and other small things that you bring at parties and special events. It has an envelope shape with a zipper closure. It looks elegant and trendy and is comfortable to use.
5. Tote Bag
Compared to other handbags, tote bags are usually bigger. They are often square or rectangular in shape and feature a large and wide bottom. The top part of a tote bag is more often than not open, allowing easy access to your items. But some tote bags have zipper closures. They are also usually equipped with two handles that are long enough to carry the bag over a shoulder, but others only have one and have shorter handles and detachable shoulder straps.
Tote bags are suitable for shopping. That is why they are also referred to as shopping bags or shoppers. They are very convenient to use and offer a large space that could carry quite a few items. Below are some examples of tote bags to help you pick:
- Ayieyill Corduroy Tote Bag: This tote bag is made of soft and strong corduroy. It is lightweight, durable, portable, and comfortable to use. It has a large space that is big enough for all of your daily essentials. It has a main compartment and two internal open-slot pockets to keep your things organized. It can hold lots of items, including iPads, phones, A4-size magazines and papers, umbrellas, and more. It is also easy to match with any outfit.
- TBF Heavy Duty Canvas Tote Bag: This tote bag is made of 100% natural cotton canvas. It is great for shopping, going to school, and running errands. It can also be designed and given as a gift to your loved ones. It is a reusable and environment-friendly type of tote bag.
- BUG Tote Bag for Women: This is an extra-large tote bag that can hold up to a 15.6-inch laptop. It has a padded laptop compartment and zippered pockets to keep everything in place. It is lightweight but spacious enough for all your daily essentials for work, school, and travel.
6. Bucket Bag
Bucket bags are shaped like a bucket, hence the name. Some of them are open on top, while others have drawstring closures. These bags mostly have shoulder straps and are used as shoulder bags. Others have a handle over the top opening and can be used as a handbag. Bucket bags have roomy storage spaces and can hold a lot of items, such as vanity items, wallets, smartphones, and small books.
Most bucket bags are made of strong materials like leather. Since they have a unique shape, they are also often worn as a fashion statement. Below are some examples of bucket bags to help you pick:
- Calvin Klein Gabrianna Novelty Bucket Bag: This bucket bag has the perfect size to hold all of your daily essentials. It is made of faux leather. It has an adjustable strap that you can use to turn it into either a handbag or a shoulder bag. It also has a drawstring closure to tighten or loosen the overall look of the bag.
- Coach Town Bucket Bag: This is a simple but elegant-looking bucket bag. It has a center zip compartment and a snap closure. It has a short handle but also comes with a longer, detachable strap. It can be matched easily with any outfit.
- Tory Burch McGraw Small Bucket Bag: This bucket bag has an open-top design, a structured base, and gold-tone hardware. It is a small handbag that comes with a longer shoulder strap. It is spacious enough to fit smaller items that you need when traveling or going to malls and other events.
7. Hobo Bag
In general, hobo bags are roomy bags that feature a wide opening on top to fit bulkier items. Most of the time, they have a single long handle that you can use as a shoulder strap for more convenient use. The main opening of the bag is often secured with a zipper. There are also times when the bag comes with several small compartments on the inside for smaller items.
Hobo bags are loved by many women due to their laid-back style and spacious interior. Below are some examples of hobo bags to help you choose:
- Covelin Retro Canvas Hobo Bag: This bag is made of soft canvas, making it light and durable for everyday use. It can be carried as a handbag, shoulder bag, or tote bag. It is also easy to match with any outfit. It is a roomy bag that features two small pockets for smaller items. This bag can hold your everyday items, such as your phone, wallet, iPad, books, and more.
- Montana West Hobo Handbag: This is a cute hobo bag that adapts stylish contrast color design. It also features elegant gold-tone metal hardware. You can use it to keep your iPad, books, notebooks, keys, wallet, umbrella, and other essential items organized. It is made of high-quality vegan leather. It can suit any outfit and highlights elegance.
- Wrangler Hobo Handbag: This handbag is made of soft and durable vegan leather. It is adorned with long-lasting gold-tone hardware. It is a subtle but elegant hobo bag for women. It is two main compartments, two zipper pockets, and two slip pockets to keep your wallets, phones, and other items organized. The bag can be used in two ways, such as carrying it on the shoulder or slinging it across the body. It is fit for work, school, shopping, parties, and travel.
Conclusion
There are indeed a lot of different handbags to choose from. That is why learning about the various types can be helpful in order to pick the right one that will match your style and preferences. Each handbag has a different purpose. Therefore, when choosing a handbag, consider your purpose for buying one. Also, always go for a good quality handbag that will make you look stylish and keep your belongings secured at the same time. We hope this post helped you learn more about picking a new handbag.