Handbag Style Guide

Most of us know that it's not as easy as it looks to buy a handbag - at least, not if you want to be sure to get one you like and that has all the features you need every day. Here are a few tips to help anyone find a handbag they'll love and that goes well with their life.

There are several different categories that most handbags fall into. Knowing which one is most appropriate for your needs is an important part of choosing the right bag. Totes are large enough to help you carry most items, but they might be too big for tight spaces. A clutch may be beautiful, but it's probably too delicate and inconvenient for use on a daily basis.  Here are the basic kinds of handbags and what they're best at.

Tote Bags

Tote bags, also called shoppers, are a great choice for anyone who needs to bring along lots of belongings, or a few bulky ones. They offer a bigger capacity than most types of handbags and are well constructed - designed to take a beating. Materials used for these handbags include canvas, twill, and leather - all materials that can stand up to rough use.

Some of these bags have many different storage compartments, while others avoid complexity and have only a single compartment. Since these bags are for carrying, they always have a handle, and often a heavy duty shoulder strap.  They can be used as a carry on for airplanes, on a trip to the beach, to work, when shopping, and at the gym.

These utilitarian bags are great with casual clothes, but don't work so well when you're dressed up. If you're looking for a bag to take to the office, make sure you choose a professional looking neutral tote, not a wild or unusual one.

Shoulder Bags

These everyday bags are among the most common. Their long straps allow them to hang from your shoulder, preventing you from needing to carry them in your hands. Multiple pockets let you organize everything you need to carry, and styles are many and varied. That means you'll be able to find a shoulder back that goes with anything, and for almost any occasion.

Shoulder bags come with just about every kind of closure, design, shape, size, and color there is. This means that many of us have more than one. Shoulder bags work well in all casual situations, from the movies to the store. They're even good at the office if you make sure to choose a professional material and design. They're a great color accent for neutral outfits.  Just don't wear them on extremely formal occasions, when they might get in the way of a great outfit.

Satchels

These luggage styled handbags have short handles, wide and flat interiors, and a classic look that never goes out of style. They come in many different sizes, but most are large enough to hold all your daily necessities. They go great with jeans, and can be carried in your hand or over your shoulder, making them extremely versatile.  Satchels are great handbags to go to the club, on a date, or just out on the town.  They're not as good for evening dress, as they can seem bulky.

Evening Bags

These bags are made just for glamorous nights out, and include many different types. Clutch bags have no strap and are held in the hand.  Wristlets have a short strap and hang from your wrist. Delicate bags can go over the shoulder. These are great with an evening dress, and offer beautiful detailing that complements your outfit without overwhelming it.

Plainer clutches can be used as a wallet inside your handbag during the day, too. Evening bags go well at fine restaurants, weddings, parties, and other formal occasions. However, they're not always as useful on a day to day basis, due to their small size and delicacy. Don't try to put too much in your evening bag - you should only bring enough cosmetics to touch up, some money, identification and other essentials.

No matter what occasion you need a handbag for, there's sure to be one that works for you. Just pay attention to the features you'll need, what size is required, and the look that's appropriate, and choosing the right type of handbag will be simple. Remember that very cheap handbags are often a poor buy, since they wear out quickly. One that's a little more costly, but better made, could be the bag that lasts you for years.  From spacious totes to tiny clutches, we have a handbag for you to fit your style and your budget.