There are generally three main categories of handbag – functional, everyday & evening. Each of these categories offer many choices of design including:
Grab Bags
Available as medium sized everyday bags, these are great for containing all your essentials. Most feature several compartments and as well as the two ‘grab’ handles on the top, also come with detatchable shoulder straps. Smaller style mini grab bags are also available and make a great choice of accessory for a wedding, etc.
Tote Bags
An open top bag with medium length handles making them extremely versatile, they can be carried either in the hand or on your shoulder. Tote bags generally have a large capacity and are perfect for carrying documents, gym wear – really just about anything!
Hobos
The hobo is crescent shape bag carried over the shoulder, and available in a variety of sizes to suit all body types. It’s one of the most popular and flattering designs on the market and perfect for everyday use.
Shoulder Bags
Again available in a variety of sizes so can be chosen for almost any occasion. Shoulder bags tend to have either a single or double set of straps, the length of straps should be considered when taking into account body type.
Satchels
Satchels tend to be medium to large in size, with a triangular side profile. They have a top flap that closes over the front and usually fasten with a buckle. Many have a long shoulder strap, although some recent designs have seen the introduction of a smaller top handle instead.
Bowling Bags
As the name suggests this style of handbag originated from the bags used to carry bowling balls, although (thankfully) the favoured ranges available on the market today are not quite so large! Usually bowling bags feature a zipper fastening, and have two wide, sturdy short straps that sit either side on top of the bag.
Bucket Bags
Simply a ‘bucket’ shape that actually originated from the design of early fire buckets which were made of leather. Medium to large in size with a sturdy rigid base and softer body, they often feature a flap-over top to conceal their contents.
Flap Bags
A simple classic style featuring a large fold over flap that covers the top and usually most of the front of the bag. Flap bags tend to be found in medium to large sizes, and they are another great everyday choice for holding all your essentials.
Shopper Bags
Shopper bags are usually large and roomy, but at the same time very stylish. They have to be the perfect shopping accessory – hence the name! They usually have a top handle with zip or button closure fastening to keep contents safe!
Across The Body Bags
Also know as messenger bags, these functional bags often feature extra long straps so that they can be placed over your head and shoulders, enabling them to sit across the front of your body. Available in many sizes they offer great comfort whilst at the same time keeping your hands free – for carrying your shopping maybe!
Clutch Bags
Cluthes are the classic choice in evening bags. Also known as pouchettes, they are small and compact with no straps or handles, and are carried in your hand or tucked under your arm. Recent designs have become more elaborate and exquisitely detailed using materials such as satin, velvet, lace, beads, jewels, sequins and even feathers.
Mini Grab Bags
This smaller take on the classic grab style is becoming a popular choice with the ladies on nights out. It’s classy design also makes it a great choice for special events as it is slightly more functional than a clutch or baguette.
Baguette
These are small narrow bags that have an elongated, rounder style than clutch bags, and usually have some type of shoulder strap. Slightly larger versions can sometimes be used as day bags, but generally this style is prefered as an evening or occasion bag.