When presenting as a woman, every detail matters — including your handbag!
The right bag can bring your whole outfit together and add that feminine touch, while the wrong one can throw off your look and even draw attention to areas you’d rather not highlight.
In this post, I’ll share some simple tips for crossdressers and trans women to help you find the perfect purse. Let’s explore the 6 key factors to consider when choosing a handbag.
1. Length
Length is an important and often overlooked detail. Your handbag accentuates the part of your body it falls next to, so keep these tips in mind:
- To make your hips look wider, choose a bag that falls at hip level.
- To make your waist look more shapely, choose a waist-length bag.
2. Shape
Handbags can range in shape from square and structured to soft and rounded. To provide balance, look for a bag with features that complement your body shape. For example:
- If you have a straight body shape, look for a slouchy or rounded bag to create the illusion of curves.
- If you’re on the heavier or rounded side, a more structured bag will flatter your features.
3. Size
Your handbag should work with your overall body proportions. If you’re tall and/or have a sturdy build, a tiny bag may appear out of place.
Conversely, if you’re petite, an oversized bag can overwhelm your frame. Opt for a bag that harmonizes perfectly with your proportions.
4. Style
A bag that’s too casual or too formal for the rest of your outfit is a common fashion faux pas. Study fashion magazines and blogs to learn which bags look best with specific outfits.
Pinterest is another fantastic resource for discovering bag-and-outfit combinations that can inspire your style.
5. Function
Your handbag should not only be stylish but also functional.
There’s nothing more frustrating than a small bag that can’t hold your essentials or constantly losing items in an overly large bag.
Ensure that the size and compartments of your bag suit your needs perfectly.
6. Color
Color is one of the most important handbag considerations. Here are two tips to keep in mind:
- Forget about the old rule to match your bag to your shoes. While your bag and shoes should coordinate, they don’t have to be an exact match.
- A black or brown bag will give you the most mileage, but don’t be afraid to try something different. Red, burgundy, forest green, and dark blue are surprisingly versatile handbag colors.
Let’s talk handbags!
As much as I love shoes, I might be even more obsessed with bags. That’s why my collection is constantly growing.
What about you? How many handbags do YOU own?
Take my poll and tell me about your favorite handbag in the comments below! Even better, share a photo of it with us!
Love,
Lucille
Loading ...
P.S. If you liked this article, you will love my FREE Male to Female Transformation Mini Course.
Hi Lucille,
This was an interesting blog, having a good bag is essential for any girl. I appreciate the tips on how to find bags in different sizes and shapes. For me it’s about functionality and quality.
I’ve taken to carrying a “Messenger Bag” even when I am not dressed up (meaning in male mode). In addition, in my closet I have purses I inherited from my mom (she passed about 18 months ago). I freely admit it, I am definitely addicted to purses.
I’ve gotten to the point where I have to sneak new bag in. Or when my partner asks if its a new bag, I swear blind I’ve had it for ages, I probably have about 30 or so. I may be addicted, Oh well!
Personally, my purses are for functionality. I want a purse that can hold all my makeup, phone, wallet, etc. and still not be too large. Also my purses have large straps, so it’s easy to put around my neck and not be uncomfortable. Here is a recent photo of me out shopping to give you an idea. Hugs, Suzy
I haven’t got a Handbag yet, I’m at first stages of transition. To be honest I haven’t got a clue what to get so this blog is brilliant , helps me out a lot in what to choose Thanks Lucille
I have two bags, one a slightly oversized classic style handbag in a sort very light green with grey and black flowers on it that have a brighter green for the stems of the embroidered flowers (its nicer than my description allows, I promise) and a large brown satchel type for when I have the children (more room for their stuff)…I am pleased that I had accidentally taken the advice of this column beforehand and my bags do indeed help my overall look. In a twist of coincidence I am shopping for a more formal handbag on the weekend so this couldn’t have come at a better time.
i always like a small clutch bag for evening wear
Andie you look amazing and that bag is perfect. you got it sorted girl! xx
I get all of my purses at garage sales, estate sales. I beat them up pretty good, in my day to day travels! Function is my first requirement.