This article provides a rundown on common handbag style termonologies. It also provides additional tips on size, fabrication and price.

The handbag has been a consistent part of a woman’s wardrobe since the early 1900’s. Virtually no woman leaves home without one and many women own many more then one. This has lead to designers coming up with idea after idea in the handbag market. Handbags are available in every manner of style, size, fabrication and price point.


Styles

Some of the most common style terms are listed below:

Top handle-a standard handbag which has a short hand held handle.

Shoulder bag-a handbag which has a strap long enough to be worn over the shoulder.

Clutch-small hand held purse, typically used for special occasions.

Hobo-the hobo style handbag is shaped a bit like a U or saddle bag.

Framed-a handbag with a metal opening that clips together and provides the bags structure. Typically the rest of the bag is constructed from fabric.

Tote-a large rectangular bag that usually doesn’t have any fastenings at the top, perfect for carrying magazines or paper work.

Messenger-have a strap which goes across the body, they are crossed between a shoulder bag and a backpack.

Round handle-these bags are attached to two round circles that form the handles and support for the bag.

Handles are often made from bamboo.

Drawstring-feature a drawstring mechanism to do up rather then zips or magnetic closures.



Size

Handbags come in a wide range of sizes from tiny clutch purses to huge oversized totes. To choose an appropriate handbag size you need to consider what you’d like to carry in it and your body type. Handbags work with the rules of proportion; for example, if you are a large build you should choose a decent size bag.

Fabrication

Handbags are made from a wide variety of fabrications like; leather, suede, straw, raffia, fabric and pvc. Make sure you choose a handbag in a fabrication that is suitable for its intended purpose. For example, a velvet fabric handbag would be suitable for special occasions, but a canvas tote or straw shoulder bag would be far more suited to a day at the beach.

Price

Handbags start from only a few dollars and extend into the many thousands of dollars. If you select a classic style handbag it is often worthwhile investing in a good one. You can afford to outlay a reasonable amount of money on a handbag because they do not become obsolete with small weight fluctuations. However, before spending the money on a designer handbag always ask yourself whether you would buy the style if it didn’t have the logo.

When it comes to choosing a handbag also consider how comfortable it feels to carry and the types of outfits you intend on wearing with it. If you intend on wearing the bag with business attire a structured handbag will look good, but if it’s to be worn with soft feminine clothing a slouchier bag might be better.