Choosing the Right Purse

We know they’re an important part of your fashion, and that they have to have just the right look to go with that outfit, but they’re also likely the part you give the least consideration when compared to your shoes, or jeans.

Take note!  The right purse can be as important to creating a flattering outfit as the right dress!

Don’t believe us?  Use these easy steps when picking out a purse to make sure it fits your figure, your style, and your night.  The wrong handbag can add pounds to your appearance faster than a knock-off camera in the hands of an amateur photographer, and can add just the right but of flash to your outfit to go from hot to sizzling!

Purse Shapes vs Your Body Shape

If you’re trying to offset the shape of your body, pick a purse that doesn’t share that shape.  Are you willowy and tall?  Hobo bags have a rounded, slouchy shape that can add a little curve where there isn’t any.  Are you on the shorter side with a voluptuous appearance? Grab a purse that’s tall and thin or longer and slimmer, clutches are perfect for this.

The more curves there are to your silhouette, the more structure you’re going to want your purse of choice to be.  No, this doesn’t mean you should carry around a Snap-On toolbox to offset the bodies natural curves, just go for a softer, blockier appearance in softer fabrics, or a soft leather like suede.  Someone with a curvier yet petite figure would do well carrying a clutch with a rectangular form to it.

All The Purses, All The Designs:

There’s more than one kind of purse ladies, we all know this.  But would you know a tote from a field-bag, or a hobo-bag from a duffle?  We aren’t just talking gym gear here.  For those who could use a little polish on their purse vocab, we provide the following:

• Tote: Straps or handles on an open-top bag.
• Hobo Bag: A puffier, rounder shoulder bag with a slouchy appearance, often having an over-all crescent shape.
• The Duffle: These bags are taller, with a wide opening at the top, worn over the shoulder.
• Field Bag: Not just for scientists, these are a flap-top bag with hardware for closing the flap, often snaps or buckles.
• Clutch: Handheld bag tucked under the arm or carried in the hand, often has a large geometric shape to it. 

These are just a few, there are dozens of styles and shapes of purse out there, keep looking till you find the right one for you.

A Final Tip: It’s All About Scale

While the right handbag won’t necessarily make you look any thinner, it can definitely provide a flattering contrast to your shape.  The shape of your bag is key to making the most of your silhouette, but when it comes to picking the size of your bag? It’s all about being proportionate to your figure.

There you go ladiez, a few simple tips to picking the right handbag.