A good handbag is an invaluable item in which to carry your personal items while still acting as a fashion accessory. Every handbag should be able to satisfy functional and style needs.
When shopping for a handbag, you need to look out for some basic tips which will guide you in finding the right:
1. Consider what purpose you need the bag for – This basically means that you need to evaluate whether you will be carrying the bag to work, for a party, shopping or evening soiree. Once you know what function your bag should serve, it will be easier to pick the right design as we have quite a variety of those. Who wants to end up going to a fancy evening party carrying a backpack instead of an elegant small clutch purse?
2. Look for a bag whose size is proportionate to your body – Even though the current fashion trends favour large oversized bags, a petite woman should not buy a bag that looks overwhelming for her small figure. When you buy a bag whose size goes well with your body, you balance out the overall look and end up making your bag work even more for your body size than just being a functional item.
3. Look out for current designs and trends – Keeping up with fashion trends need not be a tiresome exercise where you run up and down trying t o find out what is hot or not. You can simply visit websites created by fashion designers which carry updates on whatever designs are in season. Another option is reading a magazine or even just popping into any well-known retailer’s store where you are sure to get an idea what designs to look out for.
A couple of the types of bags available in different designs today are:
- Cosmetic bags for your makeup and small personal items so you can keep them organized in your main handbag.
- Messenger bags which have long straps for slinging across the body and can accommodate heavy items like books, laptops etc
- Waist of fanny bags which are usually small pouches tied and carried around the waist for quick and easy access of such things as cash when shopping or other items when hiking.
- Backpacks which are usually carried on the back for ease of managing more weight over long distances or on a regular basis. They are invaluable for hikers (backpackers) and students who need a durable bag that they can use on a daily basis.
These are just a few as we have clutch purses, hobo bags, baguette bags and much much more.
One of the very well known handbag designers who has very beautiful creations and provides high quality, durable bags is Tory Burch. Handbags from Tory Burch have proven to be a must have accessory in any girl’s wardrobe as they cover a wide range of styles and are made of durable leather while still largely maintaining a relatively affordable price tag for designer labelled pieces.
A couple of the best designs so far are:
1. The Robinson Satchel
This brightly coloured satchel is the perfect item to bring that extra dash of colour to your outfit. It is made of very high quality Italian leather and as a plus, is scratch resistant.
It features a zip closure at the top for the main compartment, an adjustable cross body strap, two leather handles at the top on either side, interior pockets for items like your cell phone and a detachable mirror which is quite convenient for that quick touch up session.
This bag comes in a sake gold colour and offers a variety of ways in which to carry it due to the two types of straps it has. That means you can change up the look of the bag and either use it casually or formally. Style and versatility combined for a price of $550 from Tory Burch.
2. Braeden Hobo Bag
If you have that bohemian chic style and want to look casual but trendy, this beautiful hobo bag will definitely bring that summer vibe with its subtle lines and slouchy look.
It is made of canvas and features a magnetic closure for the main compartment, open side pockets, interior pockets where you can keep your cell phone and a subtly placed logo on the side pocket.
This is the ultimate in casual style and is sure to be a great bag to carry around in your day out with the girls shopping or just hanging out.
Be environmentally cautious in this simple canvas hobo bag for $175.00 which comes in two designs to fit your style as shown above. The larger print is the River model while the one with the thinner less spaced out lines is the Small Waves model.
3. Washed Leather Kiliaen Messenger
The attention to detail on this messenger bag made out of black washed leather gives it a unique look.
It features a fold over closure which has pleated details and silver logo hardware. Its adjustable straps which can be shortened to turn it into a shoulder bag or lengthened to go back to the messenger look have silver chain detail which gives them an urban edge.
If you want a versatile bag which you can change up and wear with almost any outfit, this Kiliaen messenger bag is your number one choice.
4. Vivian Rattan Clutch
This beautifully and carefully crafted clutch bag is made from rattan to create a final look that is reminiscent of traditional straw bags. It features a stylish and elegant leather enclosure which has a logo detail in gold hardware. An interior pocket allows you to organize this purse and carry your basic required items comfortably.
This lightly coloured clutch purse is perfect for spring and can be paired with anything from a floral daytime spring dress to a darker evening dress and even with a formal outfit if one so pleases.
You simply can’t go wrong with this gorgeous number from Tory Burch which goes for $275.00
5. Edye Satchel
If you are looking for the perfect bag to carry to the office, this Edye satche bag from Tory Burch has that classic leather bag look with all the space you need for your personal accessories, diary, cell phone and wallet.
It is made of leather and features an exterior pocket which you can use to place your cell phone for quick and easy access, interior pockets with zip closure, a beautifully decorated top closure with magnetic detail and logo hardware and two sturdy, leather handles.
For a polished feminine look that compliments any formal setting, this bag is the perfect choice. It comes priced at $575.00 and should be a great addition to your wardrobe as its neutral colour allows you to wear it with any outfit.
This article was written by Susan.