Most women that I know carry a handbag. Choosing the handbag needs from the handbag wants can get a little tricky though. There are so many styles and colors now that you can literally walk around choosing like (for lack of better words) a crazy bag lady. If you want to actually use what you’ve spent your money on, then its best to purchase staples and classics. As long as you have a classic shape you can buy it in a different color every season if you want. The key is to choose something that will always be in style or that will always be wearable. Throwing a large chunk of money on a hot pink purse might not take you that far. Those should be “fun” fashion options you get on the cheap. For those bags that you are wanting to drop a large sum on, stick to the classic shapes.
1- Large Tote
Valentino
This bag works the best for those days that your running errands, or hitting the park or farmers market. It’s supposed to be versatile and serve a purpose. I would save money and make this a bag I didn’t throw too much money at. Then if it wears quickly it won’t be a big deal to replace.
2- Dressy Clutch
Valentino
A dressy clutch is used for when you have somewhere special to go. Places where jeans are not appropriate. You can buy one in a neutral color that will go with everything, or if you’re a black dress type of gal you can buy one that’s feathered or jeweled to add a bit of fun to your ensemble.
3- Oversized Clutch
Givenchy
I love an oversized clutch for a dressy day function. It has the same level of sophistication as a night clutch, but you can put more than a lipstick and your phone in it. This bag isn’t going to be a fashion staple. You will only use it on certain occasions. So if you want to buy more of a “fashion” bag rather than a high end bag, this is one of those times to do just that.
4- Overnight Bag
Chanel
An overnight bag is a large bag that you can use as a carry on for flights, or to pack your shame into if your spending the night with someone you want to get sexy with (wink wink). Anything that you can pack a change of clothes in is considered as an overnight bag. However, this isn’t junior high anymore. There are many chic options. Overnight bags are not just a plain canvas bag anymore. Because I love a suuuuper large bag and kind of don’t care if I look like an ass, I’ve been known to use these as regular bags. So I tend to make larger bags my special purchases.
5- Carryall Bag
Gucci
This bag is the bag that you will use the most. It should be built to last. So if your going to throw a large chunk of money on one, this would be a good choice. This is the bag that you will take everywhere during the day. It will be a bit fancier than your large tote, and should be roomy. Neutral tones are a great choice for this bag because then it has more of a chance of mixing in with all of your wardrobe.
6- Cross-body Bag
Christian Louboutin
I’m not a cross body bag type of lady. I have a couple and I use them when I need my hands to be free while I’m running around. But like I said, I’m a super large bag type of lady. A lot of my friends prefer a cross body and they look great. Plus, because they are a smaller and lighter bag you can usually find them by designers for a less hefty price. If you don’t like to carry around a boulder then this would be a great option for you.
7- Slouchy Hobo Bag
Ralph Lauren
Slouchy hobos are one of my favorite types of bags. They are roomy and not as structured as a carryall. They’re just a little less serious and a little more boho. These can also be worn everywhere that isn’t a dressy function.
8- Structured Tote
Hermes
A structured tote is a great business bag. It’s a little more serious. This bag is a great investment, but because its for a more serious use (meetings, funerals ect) I would suggest to buy it in black. That way it’s not going to be too loud and you can use it for years and years.
9- Dressy Shoulder Bag
Valentino
A dressy shoulder bag should just be a shoulder bag version of a clutch. Essentially you would be using it for the same functions that you would as a clutch, but this way you have the option of carrying more things with you. Some people find clutches too small to be useful. A dressy shoulder bag is perfect for those people.
10- Travel Bag
Louis Vuitton
Yeah, that’s a fancy title for suitcase. A lot of people that love to travel will buy a very expensive travel bag. Hello Louis Vuitton. I don’t trust anyone and would assume my bag would be stolen, so I could never do it. I personally would rather put that money into a bag I used every day. I do however get the whole “travel chic” thing. So if that’s more of your personality then for you it would be a good investment. Especially if your fabulous and take trips regularly.
Those are some of the bags you will probably use the most. I’m not a millionaire, so when it comes to really wanting to make a special purchase I tend to lean towards something I will use the most often. That choice will be different for everyone because it will depend on your style and what you’re comfortable with. My one tip to all of you is if a certain style of bag is your thing, then buy a more expensive one that will be around for a while. It may seem like a splurge, but a well made bag will last you a lot longer than buying twenty fashion bags that will likely fall apart after one month. Save those cheaper, trend bags for occasions that don’t come up for you as often. No matter what kind of bag you buy, if you’re going to spend a larger sum of money on it opt for black, brown, beige ect. Neutral colors that are timeless and that will always be in style. Save that hot pink tiger striped bag for…….well never, don’t buy that one. Don’t purchase the bag that’s the trend color of the season for a million dollars. You will wear it for that season and never again and you will be able to find a lot of options at a cheaper price.
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