Bag Talk

Buying the Right Handbag for Your Body
Fashion Definitions
Trends Incorporated

Buying the Right Handbag for your Body

Believe it or not, but the fit of a handbag is just as important as the fit of a pair or jeans- both can make or break your style! Because we want you to look good and to get the maximum effect out of your handbag investment, we have a couple of pointers!

It is easier to embrace trends through handbags than any other article of clothing or accessory. The perfect hand bag is one that will emphasize (not compete with) you and your clothes. When choosing a handbag, the two most important things to consider are shape and proportion. The handbag you select should be shaped opposite of your figure; ie if you are tall and thin, a small, round handbag will be best for you!

Determining what size and proportion are best for you are so important because the place where the handbag meets the body is the area that is accented- the area where people’s eyes are drawn.

• A woman who is larger on the bottom half of her body than on the top half should keep the length of her bad short so that the attention is kept on the upwards.
  
• A woman who is larger on the top half of her body than on the bottom half should wear a bag that has a longer strap, so the observing eye is driven downwards.
  
• A woman who is tall and thin should focus more on the volume of the bag than the length; a bulky bad that adds dimension would be the best for this body type.
  
• A hobo bag that is worn close to the body accentuates the arms and bust; take caution that these are the areas you wish to highlight.

Handbag Style Definitions:

• Baguette: A long and rounded shoulder bag that resembles the namesake bread.
  
• Clutch: A small handheld bag that is usually worn in the evenings.
  
• Duffle: A tall shoulder-bag that often has a wider top opening.
  
• Field Bag: A flap-top shoulder-bag with utility-type closures such as buckles and snaps.
  
• Hobo: A crescent-shaped shoulder bag.
  
• Messenger: A large, soft shoulder-bag with long straps that is often worn across the body.
  
• Pouch: A soft, small bag.
  
• Satchel: A large, handheld bag that is not quite as formal as a clutch.
  
• Tote: An open-top bag with straps or handles.
  
• Wristlet: A clutch shaped bag that comes with an attached strap that allows the bag to be held by the wrist.

How to Incorporate the Ultimate Accessory into
This Season’s Trends

Bubble:
Because the bubble trend is loosely formed and full of volume, the handbag that goes best with this trend is one that is small and structured.

Metallic:
Any piece that follows this trend makes a statement. The best handbag to go with this trend is one that is matted, so that it complements and does not compete with the metallic colors.

Layering:
When accessorizing the layering trend, keep in mind that the clothes provide the volume of the outfit so the bag should do the opposite. A very small bag will get lost among the layers, but a clutch or wristlet is sure to stand out.