Can a woman ever have enough purses and bags? Many will claim that the answer is no, and yet a majority of girls and women tend to use the same bag or two repeatedly until they practically fall apart. That’s because, while trends come and go, classic shapes and styles will always remain in vogue (and, for that matter, Vogue).
Preferred colors, patterns and fabrics may vary according to the individual, but the following five types of bags are essential to compliment any outfit.
Classic Handbag
This sturdy, ubiquitous style can take a girl from a meeting to lunch. These purses are usually medium-sized, good for toting essentials such as a wallet, phone and a bit of makeup, but not large enough to carry numerous extras for a full day out. It’s a ladylike look, perfectly paired with a skirt, dress or nice pants. The straps are usually at a length to be carried by hand as opposed to swung over the shoulder.
If squared-off edges seem too “hard” or old-fashioned, consider a “bucket” shape. The edges are a more rounded and therefore a bit softer. The difference is that many bucket bags don’t have a closure the way handbags do, so users need to be sure all their belongings stay within the bag and don’t fall out.
Tote Bag
Totes are increasingly popular as everyday bags, not simply for travel. Most designers make tote bags, often in soft and cushy leather (but totes can be found in all fabrics.) Perhaps it’s the increase in the number of items women carry with them that make tote bags so essential.
Totes can be found in many crazy fabrics and patterns, but most women will get the best use out of a more neutral color and fabric – blacks, browns, grays or silvers complement most outfits.
Clutch
Clutches, a very old-fashioned type of purse, have made a huge comeback in the past few seasons. Designers have shown everything from fancy, bejeweled styles to casual everyday looks. Since a clutch is so small, however, and the contents inside quite limited, it may be worthwhile to buy a more dressy style to use for nicer occasions (dinners, parties, et cetera.)
One thing to keep in mind with a clutch is that it has to be held in hand the entire night, there are no straps to relieve carrying it. That’s why a worthy alternative (or addition) to a clutch is a...
Wristlet
Wristlets are special because they can serve two purposes – they can be their own purse, or most have a keychain strap that can be connected to a larger bag (a great way to keep important items, such as keys or money, separate from the rest of the contents of a larger bag.) The brand Coach helped popularize wristlets several years ago, and many designers currently have wristlets as part of their purse inventory, including Marc Jacobs.
Because wristlets are miniature in size, bright or colorful patterns that may seem overwhelming on larger bags look cute and attractive on a wristlet. It also doesn’t particularly matter if the wristlet matches the larger bag, though it’s often easy to find coordinating bags if desired.
Over-the-Shoulder Bag
This can be any bag that’s large enough to be worn over the shoulder or across the chest, ideal for circumstances in which the user needs to keep both hands free or wants extra protection for her bag – such as mothers pushing strollers, long shopping trips or within crowded areas. One style that fits this requirement is a messenger bag, though there are other slimmer and chicer options available as well (such as smaller, squared purses with lengthy straps
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