Features to look for when buying a handbag

You might see a handbag that looks great in a store. You fall in love right away over the way it looks, but sometimes that just isn't enough. It doesn't matter what the bag looks like if you take it home and then realize you just don't like to use it. To avoid having a bag that just ends up sitting in your closet for years, it's important to have in mind what features you really want, and then make sure the bags you like have them when you are looking at them in the store. If you do this you'll be able to always avoid buying bags that you won't use.

Here are some features to look out for when shopping

Closures - How your bag closes may be more important than you think. Different people have different preferences when it comes to closures, and it's definitely something you should keep in mind. Perhaps you love a bag that zips up so that all of your items are secure. Or maybe you prefer a bag that has an open closure so that you have easy access to everything.

Material - The fabric you should be looking out for will vary depending on what you intend to use it for. For an every day fabric you should be looking for something durable that can handle a lot of wear, where as for evening bags finer fabrics will do just fine.

Size - Pay attention to descriptions of bag sizes especially if you are shopping online. If you like to carry a lot of things, a small bag clearly won't be for you even if you really like the way it looks. You'll end up never finding a use for a bag that isn't the size you need.

Shape - The shape of a bag is really important in terms of comfort. You really want to enjoy how the bag feels under your arm. Maybe you want something that falls closer to your armpit, or a bag that will hang lower like a messenger bag. Do you like wide bags, or taller bags?

Storage - The storage of your bag is one of the most important things. You'll need to figure out if you want your bag to have pockets on the outside or tons of pockets in the inside. Maybe you want a bag that will allow you easy access to your phone. Some bags may even act as a wallet for you with card holders. Not the inside and the outside storage of every bag you like before you make a purchase.

Great Handbag Styles



Handbags are more than just a way for you to carry all of your things around. A handbag is an accessory that accentuates an outfit. It can add a pop of color, or tone down an otherwise funky dress. For some, finding a handbag is difficult because they are not familiar with the different kinds of styles. Here is a guide to the top handbag styles so that you never spend a day in confusion about what to get.

Hobo - Hobos are one of the most common and popular styles of handbag. This is because generally come in sizes that are large enough to carry all your stuff on a regular basis. They also have a crescent shape that makes them very comfortable to carry.

Satchel - Satchel bags definitely stand out because of their structured shape. Because these bags have to keep their shape they are generally made from heavy leathers and canvas. Satchels are the perfect bag for classy yet chic looks, as well as office style.

Baguette - Not to be confused with bread, baguettes do mimic the shape of a loaf and have short straps putting the hand in handbag.

Clutch - Clutches are stylish bags that have no straps and are ideal for formal wear. These bags are usually just large enough to carry your essentials and not take away from the shape of your stylish cocktail dress with straps criss-crossing everywhere.

Tote - Totes are another popular bag similar to hobos, but with much more structure. These bags can range from simple casual in cloth fabrics to more sophisticated leathers. Tote bags will usually have plenty of space to carry all of your things inside of it. Tote bags can also be used as great laptop bags for women.







Dos and Don't for your handbag



A handbag is an essential part of any outfit. A horrible handbag can completely ruin an outfit while a great one can pull everything together and make it look more complete. It doesn't matter if you only have a couple of bags, or a giant collection. Here are some things that you should keep in mind when you are picking the one that you want to carry with you. Follow these rules and you'll always look good while still keeping up with your own personal style.

Dos

Take advantage of the basic tote bag. They are great for casual days when you're just wearing a pair of jeans. They're also perfect for shopping green.

Do dress up your tote bag. Tote bags don't always have to look casual. There are tons that come in beautiful leathers that can give a really formal look, especially for the office.

Allow your bag to be a pop of color in your outfit. If you're wearing a very neutral outfit try a fun and funky colored bag.

Always make sure to adjust the strap of your bag so that it won't hang lower than your hips. Sometimes this can be an issue for smaller ladies. I know the pain!

Choose bright colored handbags to wear in the summer. This is the best time to bring out all the colors you wouldn't normally use. Even neons look great this time of year!

Go for a super funky clutch or evening bag when wearing a little black dress. This is a great time to break out that bag with a crazy print, or something with rhinestones everywhere!

Don'ts

Don't use tote bags when you're wearing an evening gown. It doesn't matter how fancy it looks, it just won't go with the occasion.

Don't wear shoulder bags with your evening wear either unless the strap is thin and delicate like a chain. A thick strap will distract from the gown.

Don't leave detachable straps attached to your bag if you don't intend on using them.

Evening bags are tiny, so don't try to put everything you own inside of them when you go out. Only the essentials are necessary like your phone, money, some lipstick, and gum or mints.

Photo Source