Common Types of Handbags & How to Choose the Right One

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Learn about clutches, purses, and more
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Handbags and purses aren’t just for storing your belongings; they can be an essential accessory for your outfit. From clutches and purses to larger crossbody and shoulder bags , there are a ton of options to choose from. For this article, we compiled a list of some of the most common types of handbags and their uses. We also talked to professional stylists and image consultants to help you determine which handbag style is right for you.

Popular Types of Handbags

  • Clutch: A small, strapless handbag designed to be carried in the hand or under the arm.
  • Wristlet: A small wallet or clutch with a short strap worn around the wrist.
  • Tote Bag: A large, open-topped bag used to carry various items.
  • Hobo Bag: A slouchy, crescent-shaped bag with a single shoulder strap.
  • Baguette Bag: A small, structured handbag designed to be carried under the arm like a baguette.
Section 1 of 4:

Clutches & Handheld Bags

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  1. 1
    Clutch A clutch is a small handbag designed to be handheld or carried under the arm; it typically comes without handles or straps. Clutches are more compact than other handbags and are often used for evening occasions to carry small essentials, like credit cards and small cosmetic items. [1]
    • When to wear: Use a clutch when you don’t need to carry a lot of belongings or for formal events and special nights out.

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Kalee Hewlett is a celebrity stylist and confidence coach with almost two decades of experience helping clients build confidence and dress for success.

    Taissha G. LaReau is a wardrobe consultant and stylist based in Albany, NY. She specializes in helping people maximize their wardrobes and create functional, everyday outfits.

    Chloée Ohayon-Crosby is a costume designer and wardrobe specialist based in Los Angeles, California. She has over 8 years of experience in fashion consulting.

  2. 2
    Box Clutch A box clutch is a structured, often hard-shelled clutch with a boxy shape. Box clutches are known for their elegant design and are often adorned with intricate details, making them ideal for formal occasions or to wear as a statement piece. They often feature a clasp or magnetic closure. [2]
    • When to wear: Carry a box clutch for formal occasions, such as weddings, galas, and cocktail parties.
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  3. 3
    Envelope Clutch An envelope clutch is a flat, rectangular clutch with a triangular flap top, designed to resemble an envelope. These bags often have a magnetic snap closure and can range in size. They’re popular for formal occasions, like weddings, parties, and evening gatherings. [3]
    • When to wear: Envelope clutches are best suited for formal events, upscale dinners, and occasions where you need to carry only a few essentials.
  4. 4
    Kiss Lock Clutch A kiss lock clutch is a clutch characterized by a kiss lock, which is a type of framed closure that snaps shut with two spherical knobs. When these knobs are closed, it looks as if they’re kissing each other, hence the name. [4] These clutches are often worn at formal events, though they can also be used as everyday bags.
    • When to wear: Carry a kiss lock clutch to formal and semi-formal occasions, as well as more casual settings like brunches.
  5. 5
    Pouch The term “ pouch ” typically refers to a small, soft bag used to carry small items, though a pouch can also be a larger bag. Like clutches, pouches typically don’t have straps or handles and are carried in the hand or under the arm. However, they often have drawstring or zipper closures and are more casual and versatile than clutches. [5]
    • When to wear: Carry a pouch when you need to carry and organize small items, like coins, dollar bills, or makeup. Place it inside a larger bag so things don’t get lost.
  6. 6
    Minaudiére A minaudiére is a small hard-cased clutch or evening bag typically reserved for formal occasions. These bags are known for their decorative exteriors, which are often embedded with beads or crystals, and they often include compartments to carry small items like makeup and mirrors. [6]
    • When to wear: Minaudiéres are best reserved for formal occasions where a larger bag would be impractical or detract from an elegant outfit.
  7. 7
    Bracelet Bag A bracelet bag is a unique handbag that features a bracelet-like handle that allows for easy carrying. It combines the functionality of a bag with the style of jewelry, making it a trendy accessory. Many bracelet bags also come with a detachable strap that allows them to be worn as a shoulder bag. [7]
    • When to wear: Use a bracelet bag when you need something functional yet trendy, like when you’re going out for a night on the town.
  8. 8
    Wristlet A wristlet is a small wallet or clutch with an attached strap designed to be worn around the wrist. Wristlets are typically more convenient than clutches because you don’t have to hold them the entire time. They’re designed to carry essentials like cards, cash, keys, and sometimes a phone. [8]
    • When to wear: Use a wristlet if you only need to carry a few small items, like when you’re going for a hike or running quick errands.
  9. 9
    Bermuda Bag Bermuda bags are slouchy, round or oval-shaped handbags that typically have a wooden handle and removable cloth covers that are buttoned onto the bag. These bags are often associated with preppy fashion and are popular accessories at country clubs and social settings. [9]
    • When to wear: Carry a Bermuda bag during casual, daytime events, like a trip to the beach, a casual lunch, or a shopping trip.
  10. 10
    Basket Bag Basket bags are inspired by traditional baskets. They’re typically woven and made of straw or wicker. These bags range from small clutches to large totes, and are popular for their spaciousness and summery, bohemian aesthetic. [10]
    • When to wear: Save basket bags for casual, summery outings, like a beach trip, a picnic, or an afternoon stroll.
  11. 11
    Barrel Bag A barrel bag is a cylindrical-shaped handbag that resembles a barrel or a small, refined duffel bag. It comes with two short handles for carrying and may have a detachable crossbody strap. [11]
    • When to wear: Use your barrel bag for outdoor activities, weekend getaways, or gym sessions to hold all of your essentials.
  12. 12
    Knot Bag A knot bag is a unique type of open handbag that comes with two asymmetric handles. The longer handle slips through the shorter handle to create a knot that secures the bag’s contents and allows it to be carried on the wrist. These bags originated in Japan.
    • When to wear: Opt for a knot bag if you need something lightweight and accessible, like for carrying everyday essentials or groceries.
  13. 13
    Pochette Pochettes are small, flat bags that resemble a clutch or wristlet. They’re typically carried by hand or on the wrist. The term “pochette” is French for “small pocket” and originally referred to a very small pocket or pouch. Modern pochettes are often used as evening bags due to their elegant and compact design. [12]
    • When to wear: Use a pochette when you only need to carry a few small essentials, like at formal events.
  14. 14
    Hat Box Hat box handbags are designed to resemble vintage hat boxes. They typically have a round shape and a structured design, and they often come with a top handle and a detachable shoulder strap. These handbags often have a vintage aesthetic and include details like a shield lock clasp or a quilted interior.
    • When to wear: Choose a hat box handbag if you want to add a unique, vintage flair to your outfit.
  15. 15
    Box Bag A box bag is a hard, sturdy bag characterized by its square, boxy shape. These bags have a more defined structure than other handbags, giving them a sleek, polished appearance. Box bags often have a variety of carrying options, including top handles, detachable shoulder straps, or crossbody straps. [13]
    • When to wear: Depending on the design, use box bags for practical, everyday use or to add a sense of sophistication to your evening wear.
  16. 16
    Doctor’s Bag As the name suggests, doctor’s bags were originally used by physicians to carry medical supplies. They have a boxy, satchel-like shape and are known for their wide, hinged opening. Doctor’s bags are traditionally made of leather, though modern versions come in a variety of materials and designs. [14]
    • When to wear: If you aren’t a doctor, consider using your doctor’s bag to hold larger items, like laptops, or as a travel bag.
  17. 17
    Boston Bag Boston bags are barrel-shaped bags with a top zipper closure and two handles. The term “Boston bag” is sometimes used interchangeably with “doctor’s bag,” though Boston bags are typically larger and more versatile. They can be used for business or leisure, including for travel or for the gym. [15]
    • When to wear: Use a Boston bag when you need to carry a moderate amount of items. These bags are good for business, travel, and everyday use.
  18. 18
    Gladstone Bag Named after William Ewart Gladstone, four-time Prime Minister of Great Britain, the Gladstone bag is a boxy travel bag that resembles a briefcase. These bags are traditionally made of leather and are often fitted with lanyard belts. They’re constructed with a hinged, rigid frame that opens and closes the bag. Gladstone bags are sometimes used interchangeably with doctor’s bags. [16]
    • When to wear: Use a Gladstone bag to hold work- or travel-related items or whenever you need to carry a moderate amount of items.
  19. 19
    Handheld Handbag A handheld handbag is simply any handbag that is designed to be held rather than carried over the shoulder. These bags are typically larger than a purse (though smaller than a tote) and feature double handles. They can come in practically any design.
    • When to wear: Depending on the design, carry a handheld handbag for formal or casual occasions.
  20. 20
    Trapeze Bag Trapeze handbags are known for their trapezoid shape, which features a wide top that gradually narrows at the bottom. These bags often look as though they have wings and are structured, meaning they hold their shape well. They typically come with a flap closure with a distinctive clasp.
    • When to wear: Trapeze bags are versatile and suitable for carrying your daily essentials, like your wallet, phone, and keys.
  21. 21
    Half Moon Handbag A half moon handbag has either a curved top or bottom and is flat on the other end, giving it the shape of a half moon. These bags are often known for their minimalist design and comfortable, slouchy silhouette, though sturdy, stiff bags can also have a half moon shape. [17]
    • When to wear: Half moon handbags are mostly used for carrying daily essentials while adding a trendy flair to your outfit.
  22. 22
    Ruffle Handbag Ruffle handbags are any handbags that incorporate ruffles into the design, giving the bag’s surface a textured, layered effect. The ruffles can be made from any material and are used to embellish different parts of the bag, including the body, straps, or flap.
    • When to wear: Carry a ruffle handbag as a statement accessory. They can be dressed up or dressed down, depending on the style.
  23. 23
    Bowling Bag Modern bowling bags draw inspiration from the original bowling bags that were used for carrying bowling equipment. They come in a trapezium shape with a flat bottom and curved top, and typically feature two handles. Bowling bags have become a popular fashion item due to their spaciousness and unique shape. [18]
    • When to wear: Use a bowling bag if you need a lot of space for your belongings and want to add a unique touch to your outfit.
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Section 2 of 4:

Shoulder & Crossbody Bags

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  1. 1
    Baguette Bag Baguette bags are long, narrow handbags that resemble the shape of a French baguette. They’re compact and are designed to be carried under the arm. These bags gained popularity in the late 90s and early 2000s, especially thanks to the TV show Sex and the City . [19]
    • When to wear: Baguette bags are versatile and can be used for both formal and casual occasions. Wear one to add a pop of color or texture to your outfit.
  2. 2
    Hobo Bag A hobo bag is a slouchy shoulder bag characterized by its crescent shape. These bags are typically made from soft, pliable materials like leather and suede and offer a relaxed, unstructured look. [20]
    • When to wear: Hobo bags are typically used for everyday wear, though they can be dressed up for more formal occasions.
  3. 3
    Beach Bag As the name suggests, beach bags (also known as straw bags or Kenya bags) are designed for carrying items to and from the beach. These bags are large, durable, and made of quick-drying materials like straw or canvas. They typically have sturdy straps and a sturdy bottom to prevent tipping. [21]
    • When to wear: Carry your beach bag to the beach, pool, or anywhere else you need to carry a lot of items.
  4. 4
    Muff Handbag Muff handbags , also known as hand muffs, are fluffy bags that can be worn around the waist or carried like a muff. They have a soft, insulated interior and a zippered or open pocket designed for carrying small items like keys or a phone.
    • When to wear: Wear a muff handbag when you want to keep your hands warm and add a touch of elegance to an outfit.
  5. 5
    Shopper Bag Shopper bags are rectangular bags that are a mix between a tote and a box bag. As the name suggests, they’re often used for shopping because they offer ample room for your belongings. They’re environmentally-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic bags. [22]
    • When to wear: Carry a shopper bag whenever you go shopping or need to carry a lot of items.
  6. 6
    Tote Bag Tote bags are large, usually open-topped bags with two parallel handles. They’re known for their versatility and convenience and are used to carry all kinds of items, from essential belongings to groceries. Tote bags can be made of almost any material, but are usually made of sturdy materials like canvas. [23]
    • When to wear: Carry a tote bag in casual situations where you need a lot of space, like for running errands, shopping, or going to the beach.
  7. 7
    Fringe Bag A fringe bag is any handbag adorned with a decorative fringe. These bags are often slouchy, casual, and made of leather or suede. They typically feature a bohemian or Western aesthetic.
    • When to wear: Wear a fringe bag to add a playful, textured element to your outfit. These are ideal for beach trips, festivals, and other casual events.
  8. 8
    Bucket Bag A bucket bag has a rounded base and a drawstring cinched opening, which gives it a bucket-like shape. These bags are usually taller than they are wide and offer a blend of functionality and style. [24]
    • When to wear: Image consultant Kalee Hewlett says that bucket bags are very practical, so use them if you need easy access to your belongings. She adds that bucket bags can be especially handy for parents. [25]
  9. 9
    Accordion Handbag An accordion bag is a handbag or briefcase with a compartment that folds open like an accordion. This allows for increased capacity when needed and compact storage when not in use. This design is also often used for reusable shopping bags.
    • When to wear: Use an accordion handbag if you need something that has a lot of space for your belongings but doesn’t take up a lot of room when not in use.
  10. 10
    Canteen Bag Canteen bags are designed and named after canteens, the traditional water bottles used by hikers and soldiers. These bags are round, stiff, and typically come with a shoulder strap. They typically feature multiple compartments and pockets for organization. [26]
    • When to wear: Carry a canteen handbag if you want something both stylish and functional, or when you need organized compartments to hold your belongings.
  11. 11
    Saddle Bag Saddle bags are curved, crossbody bags inspired by traditional equestrian saddle bags. Traditional saddle bags feature two large bags or pouches that hang on either side of a saddle. Modern saddlebags resemble the shape of a horseshoe and have a flap closure. [27]
    • When to wear: Saddle bags are typically good-sized handbags that can be used for casual outings, date nights, or commuting.
  12. 12
    Satchel Satchels are rectangular-shaped bags (typically made of leather) that feature a flap cover and a long shoulder strap. These bags have traditionally been used by students and professionals to carry books and documents, and are now often used to carry laptops and other materials related to school, work, or travel. [28]
    • When to wear: Satchels work well when you need to carry books, notebooks, laptops, and other essentials for students, teachers, and professionals.
  13. 13
    Quilted Sling/Crossbody Bag Quilted sling bags are characterized by their quilted pattern and have a single strap that allows them to be worn across the body. Most quilted slings are modeled after the original Chanel design, which features quilted leather, a flap cover, and chain handles.
    • When to wear: Wear a quilted sling when you want a sophisticated, polished look and need to carry a few small essentials.
  14. 14
    Lady Camera Bag Lady camera bags resemble traditional camera bags but are smaller and less bulky. These bags can serve as real camera bags or as purses, and they’re worn as crossbody or shoulder bags. [29]
    • When to wear: Carry a camera bag if you need to protect your camera while traveling or as a unique, stylish way to hold your belongings.
  15. 15
    Sling Backpack Sling backpacks (also known as one-strap bookbags or one-shoulder backpacks) are small, one-strapped backpacks designed to be carried on one shoulder. These bags are very versatile and can be worn on the front or back of the body. Many people prefer them over traditional backpacks because they’re more secure against the body. [30]
    • When to wear: Wear a sling backpack whenever you need easy access to your belongings, like when you’re commuting, traveling, or running errands.
  16. 16
    Messenger Bag A messenger bag is a large, horizontal crossbody bag with an adjustable strap and a flap cover. These bags are often made from sturdy materials, such as canvas or leather, and are known for their practicality and easy access. Messenger bags are traditionally worn by mail couriers, hence the name. [31]
  17. 17
    Haversack A haversack is a sturdy, practical bag carried on the back or over the shoulder. They have a single strap and are often used by hikers and soldiers because they offer easy access to supplies. [33] Haversacks were originally used in Germany for carrying oats for horses, and the name comes from “hafersack,” which means “oat bag.”
    • When to wear: Use a haversack to carry a variety of items, including personal belongings or outdoor essentials.
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Section 3 of 4:

Purses

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  1. 1
    Purse A purse is a general term for a small bag used to carry personal items. Often, the terms “purse” and “handbag” are used interchangeably, especially in American English, but in general, purses are smaller bags used for carrying essential items, while handbags are larger and designed to carry a wider range of items.
    • When to wear: Depending on the design, carry a purse for casual or formal outings.
  2. 2
    Coin Purse A coin purse is a small pouch specifically designed for holding coins. These purses can be carried by themselves or in a larger purse or bag. The idea is that a coin purse will keep coins from getting lost or jangling around. Some coin purses can also be used to carry keys, cards, or other small items. [34]
    • When to wear: Use a coin purse when you only need to carry small items like coins or credit cards or if you want to keep your change organized.
  3. 3
    Clasp Purse A clasp purse is any purse that features a clasp closure, typically with a metal frame. The clasp can be a simple snap closure or a more elaborate kiss lock. Clasp purses are typically used to hold small items like cash, coins, and cards, and are designed to be carried in the hand or in a larger bag.
    • When to wear: Use a clasp purse to carry your daily essentials. These can be dressed up or dressed down, depending on the design.
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Section 4 of 4:

How to Choose the Right Handbag

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  1. 1
    Consider the items you need to carry. How much stuff do you plan on carrying in your bag? If you only carry small items like your phone and some cash, a small bag will suffice. However, if you carry larger items or plan on using your bag to hold your groceries, for example, go for something larger, like a tote.
  2. 2
    Pay attention to the bag’s material and hardware. “If you have a day-to-day handbag, you’re going to be using it a lot, so you want to get something that’s going to last you a really long time,” says Hewlett. [35] To avoid inconvenient rips and tears, choose a purse made out of sturdy materials rather than flimsy fabrics. More delicate fabrics may be acceptable if you only plan on using the bag for special occasions, however.
    • Hewlett adds, “I always say go for real leather. I’m not really a fan of how pleather looks, and [it doesn’t] last well. Leather can breathe, and it works with you if you take good care of it.” [36]
  3. 3
    Choose a bag that matches your personal style. It’s totally okay if you want to choose a trendy bag, but remember, trends come and go. Before buying a new handbag or purse, consider your personal style to help ensure you’ll still like the bag years down the line. For example, if you prefer a casual, boho look, costume designer and wardrobe specialist Chloée Ohayon-Crosby recommends wearing a crossbody bag . [37] If you prefer something more sleek, a clutch may be more your vibe.
    • Consider choosing a bag in your favorite color or a color that will match most of your wardrobe.
    • If you prefer to own multiple handbags, Hewlett recommends having a darker shade, a mid shade, and a light shade so you have something for each season. [38]
  4. 4
    Pick a style that’s comfortable. If possible, carry the handbag around for a bit before you buy it to make sure it feels comfortable. Try out different options, like handheld bags and crossbody bags, to see what you prefer. If you want a handheld bag, for example, make sure you won’t get tired of carrying it around. If you prefer bags with straps, make sure the strap is secure and won’t keep sliding off your arm.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      2. ↑ https://laticoleathers.com/blogs/news/clutch-purses-guide?srsltid=AfmBOor2TlSv89PQW9OU9whND7U2BK8t9X8ohuu2eP2W7-bkmVHXe1ev
      3. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      4. ↑ https://loveourglamourblog.com/2011/07/29/what-is-a-kiss-lock-on-a-handbag/
      5. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      6. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-bags/
      7. ↑ https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/bracelet-bag-trend
      8. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-bags/
      9. ↑ https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Bermuda+bag
      1. ↑ https://www.fashiongonerogue.com/types-of-bags/
      2. ↑ https://www.fashiongonerogue.com/types-of-bags/
      3. ↑ https://www.thelist.com/482290/what-is-a-pochette-and-how-to-wear-one/
      4. ↑ https://www.fashiongonerogue.com/types-of-bags/
      5. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-bags/
      6. ↑ https://pausemag.co.uk/2022/08/what-is-the-boston-bag-explore-the-boston-style/
      7. ↑ https://mackenzieleatheredinburgh.com/2020/02/01/history-of-the-gladstone/?srsltid=AfmBOopJojutPKmaKCHRwDskLVa3-pc_FccxEO087HkZOtTt7knM9kt9
      8. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      9. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      10. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-bags/
      11. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      12. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-bags/
      13. ↑ https://www.new-rebels.com/en/blogs/new-rebels/a-shopper-bag-practical-and-stylish/
      14. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      15. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      16. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Image Consultant. Expert Interview
      17. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      18. ↑ https://sewguide.com/types-of-bags/
      19. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      20. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      21. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      22. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      23. ↑ Taissha G. LaReau. Wardrobe Consultant & Stylist. Expert Interview
      24. ↑ https://www.dictionary.com/browse/haversack
      25. ↑ https://covetmagazine.com/most-popular-types-of-handbags-for-women/
      26. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Image Consultant. Expert Interview
      27. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Image Consultant. Expert Interview
      28. ↑ Chloée Ohayon-Crosby. Costume Designer & Wardrobe Specialist. Expert Interview
      29. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Image Consultant. Expert Interview

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