Handbags come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re shopping for a new one. Do you go with a clutch, satchel, crossbody, wristlet bag, or something else? What do those words even mean?
Don’t worry, we’re breaking down all the most popular types of handbags on the fashion market in this guide. Before you know it, you’ll be an expert in purse styles. Plus, we’ll tell you which types of handbags pair well with your lifestyle and outfit choice. Let’s get started.
1. Crossbody Bag
Crossbody bags got their name because of the extra-long strap that crosses across your body in a diagonal. The bags themselves are typically on the smaller side, but the size can vary.
Besides being trendy, the purpose of a crossbody bag is convenience. Instead of holding onto a bag all day, you simply slide it across your body and get going.
The crossbody bag is the perfect bag for you if you lead a life on the go and want the ease of a hands-free bag. Plus, if you’re worried about your bag getting stolen, a crossbody is more secure since it’s attached to your body.
The other benefit of crossbody bags is that they can be dressed up or down. They pair great with a comfy pair of jeans and a cute t-shirt; however, the right crossbody bag is also the perfect companion for your little black dress.
2. Clutch
A clutch is a mini handbag that doesn’t have a strap. The point is that you clutch the bag in your hands or under your arm. Clutch bags are the smallest type of handbag, so they are typically reserved for upscale events where you only need to carry your phone, ID, and lipstick.
A clutch is the perfect dainty accessory to pair with your cocktail dress for a fancy night out. However, you can also use a clutch as a convenient travel wallet, or stow it in a larger bag and use it as a pouch. Many purse brands, like PAPAYA, design clutches to match their shoulder bags so that you can use them together.
3. Shoulder Bag
Do you need a reliable bag that can carry all of your essentials? The shoulder bag is for you. The beauty of shoulder bags is their versatility. They work with long and short straps, and they come in a variety of bag sizes.
Just as the name suggests, the should bag is worn slung over one of your shoulders. With just one strap, many shoulder bags can also be worn as a crossbody bag if the strap is long enough.
Larger shoulder bags are meant for more casual outfits for days running around town. They can hold everything from your keys to a pacifier, so you don’t have to worry about getting stranded somewhere without the essentials. Smaller shoulder bags can be dressed up and worn with fancier outfits.
4. Satchel
So far, all of the types of handbags we’ve mentioned have had one or zero straps. Are you looking for a sturdy two-strapped bag? If so, you want a satchel.
Satchels are great utility handbags. Two straps allow them to have a wider opening, so you’d be shocked by how many things you can fit into a satchel. Some satchels even have a sleeve for your laptops, so they are perfect to take to the library.
Essentially, if you need a suitcase without actually carrying a hard-edged, boxy suitcase, a satchel is the perfect feminine alternative.
5. Wristlet
Are you a minimalist that only needs to carry three or four things with you? Do you hate dealing with a bag? If that’s you, you will love wristlets.
Wristlets are basically fancier wallets. Think of them as a clutch with a short strap that loops over your wrist. They are small and rectangular, and they only have room for the bare essentials.
The perk of carrying a wristlet is that it’s not heavy, so it’s easy to take on a grocery or shopping trip where you need your hands free for other things. However, since it’s looped over your wrist, it can swing around and get in the way sometimes.
Wristlets are a casual option that’s perfect for streetwear. Most have removable straps, so you can easily turn it into a clutch and pair it with fancier looks.
6. Backpack Purse
We know what you’re thinking: a backpack isn’t a handbag. Well, it’s time to think again because back purses are currently all the rage in the fashion industry, and they aren’t just for students.
These aren’t the school backpacks you are thinking about. They aren’t made of mesh material and they don’t have multiple zippered sections. Backpack purses are compact backpacks that are made with high-quality materials like leather.
Most backpack purses just have one opening, or they might have a compact pouch on the lower half of the backpack. These bags are utilitarian and functional. They are great for carrying a book, laptop, and tablet.
They are perfect for commuting to work, and they distribute the weight of your bag evenly instead of just on one shoulder.
Final Thoughts On the Types of Handbags
Are you ready to go purse shopping now? Hopefully, this guide on the different types of handbags will help you navigate all of the options. When you’re picking out a handbag, the most important thing to keep in mind is your lifestyle. Do you need a large bag to carry all of the essentials, or a hands-free option that you don’t have to think about?
We encourage you to try multiple types of handbags. After all, you can never have too many.
For more fashion guides and resources, check out the rest of the blog.
