When presenting yourself as a woman, every detail counts. The right handbag pulls your outfit together and is the finishing touch to your feminine look.
The wrong bag, however, can spoil an otherwise perfect outfit and even call attention to body flaws. Who needs that?
Here are 6 things 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 are the opposite of your body. 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 rounded side, a more structured bag will flatter your features.
3. Size
Your handbag should compliment your overall body proportions. If you’re tall and/or stocky, a tiny bag will look out of place. If you’re small, a big that’s too big will overwhelm you. Choose a bag that’s in sync with your proportions.
4. Style
A bag that’s too casual or too formal for the rest of your outfit is a common fashion “don’t.” Study fashion magazines and blogs to learn which bags looks best with specific outfits. Pinterest is also a great place to look for bag+outfit ideas.
5. Function
While your purse should look good, it also needs to serve its purpose. There’s nothing more annoying than a tiny bag that doesn’t fit your essentials… or constantly losing things in a bag that’s too big or has too many compartments. Make sure the size and various compartments of the bag work for you.
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 bags!
As much as I love shoes, I might be even more obsessed with bags. That’s why my collection is constantly growing. (Thank you, Ebay!)
What about you? How many bags do YOU own?
Take my poll and tell me about your favorite bag in the comments below! Even better, share a photo of it with us!
Love,
Lucille
P.S. If you liked this article, you will love my FREE Male to Female Transformation Mini Course.
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transformation tips?
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.