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Handbag Styles
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Tote Bags
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Hobo Handbags
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Satchels
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Shoulder Bag
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Clutches
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Evening Handbags
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Crossbody Handbags
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Weekender Bags
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Drawstring Handbags
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Wallets
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Everyday Handbag Suggestions by Body Type
How to choose everyday handbags that flatter your body type, accentuate your favorite features and downplay
your not-so-favorite ones.
your not-so-favorite ones.
Handbags for an Inverted Triangle Body Type
Waist and hips are smaller than shoulders
• Handbags with long straps will attract attention to the smallest part of the body
• Try crossbody handbags, hobo handbags, shoulder handbags
• Handbags with long straps will attract attention to the smallest part of the body
• Try crossbody handbags, hobo handbags, shoulder handbags
Handbags for a Triangle Body Type
Waist and rear are wider than shoulders
• Handbags that fall between the natural waist and hips will make shoulders
appear broader and will help balance a figure
• Try satchel handbags
• Handbags that fall between the natural waist and hips will make shoulders
appear broader and will help balance a figure
• Try satchel handbags
Handbags for a Rectangle Body Type
Waist, shoulders and hips are the same size
• Handbags that fall at the natural waist add slight curves to a long and lean body type
• The handbag should not fall past the hips
• Try satchel handbags and hobo handbags
• Handbags that fall at the natural waist add slight curves to a long and lean body type
• The handbag should not fall past the hips
• Try satchel handbags and hobo handbags
Handbags for an Hourglass Body Type
Hips and shoulders are balanced and waistline is well-defined
• Any handbag shape works well with this body type, but keep size proportionate
• Try tote handbags, satchel handbags, hobo handbags, crossbody handbags, shoulder handbags
• Any handbag shape works well with this body type, but keep size proportionate
• Try tote handbags, satchel handbags, hobo handbags, crossbody handbags, shoulder handbags
Handbags for an Apple Body Type
Shoulders and thighs are narrower than bust and waist
• Create balance by wearing wider handbags with structure
• Women with large busts may want to avoid shoulder bags and messenger bags,
which make chests more pronounced
• Try tote handbags
• Create balance by wearing wider handbags with structure
• Women with large busts may want to avoid shoulder bags and messenger bags,
which make chests more pronounced
• Try tote handbags
Tips on Handbag Size, Shape & Length
The size, shape and length of a handbag will determine how a person looks wearing it. Here are some fashion
rules on which dimensions will work for you.
rules on which dimensions will work for you.
• The size of handbag should be proportionate to the person’s body type
• Short and petite women appear taller with small handbags and shorter with large handbags
• Tall and slim women appear larger with small handbags and look best with midsize, large and oversized styles.
• The shape of a handbag should be opposite of the person’s body type• Tall and slim women appear larger with small handbags and look best with midsize, large and oversized styles.
• Short women look taller carrying a long rectangular handbag
• Slim and tall women benefit from a round handbag
• The length of a handbag – where the bottom hits the body – emphasizes that area• Slim and tall women benefit from a round handbag
• Short handbags make busts appear larger, so choose styles with longer straps to avert attention
• Most women look good wearing handbags that hang to the mid-torso
• Most women look good wearing handbags that hang to the mid-torso
General Handbag Tips
| • | Don't forget about comfort and practicality. Yes, handbags are the easiest way to make a fashion statement, but they also have to carry your personal items. Think about size, compartments, and how long you will be holding or wearing the handbag. |
| • | Handbags are a great way to complement an outfit. Use statement pieces in seasonal colors to add extra pop and handbags in go-to neutrals (like white, cream, brown, black or metallics) to carry alongside busier ensembles. |
| • | Consider the occasion when selecting a handbag. Size, structure, material and colors will help define the handbag's formality. For example, a satin clutch is perfect for a cocktail party but most often is too formal for work. |
| • | Be detail oriented. Handbags with many rhinestones, zippers, buttons and embellishments steal the spotlight, so don't wear them with clothes that compete for attention. |
| • | Consider closures, as some styles offer more security than others. |
| • | When buying an everyday handbag, pick one made in a durable material to withstand wear and tear. |
| • | A simple way to look put-together is to follow the classic rule of matching a handbag, shoes and belt. For a modern look, wear mismatched but coordinated accessories that are of the same formality. |
| • | A well-rounded handbag collection includes at least a large weekender bag, a medium-sized handbag for everyday use and evening handbag. |
| • | Regularly remove unnecessary items that weigh your handbag down. |
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