The bag is an essential to any woman's wardrobe and here, we give you some great tips on how to pick the ideal arm candy.

Ask any woman to tell you the accessory that they can't do without and you will probably get a united answer of, "My bag". And it's true, isn't it? It's functional (where else are we going to chuck our make-up and wallet?) and it brings out your outfit and completes the look you want to pull. With so many choices out there, it's easy to succumb to impulse purchase so below are some great ideas to help you find that precious bag.

After a lovely bag has caught your eye, remember to try it in front of a full-length mirror to check if the bag works with your proportions. This step may sound mundane but you will be amazed how a bag may look perfect up on the shelf but less so when it's on you.

Shape

Try to choose a shape that is the opposite of your body type. If you are tall and thin, look for a slouchy, rounded hobo bag to complement your figure. If you're short and voluptuous, play off opposites by choosing a handbag that is tall and rectangular or long and sleek (like a clutch). In general, the rounder your figure, the more structured your bag should be. That doesn't mean that you have to carry a hard box around to counterbalance your womanly shape: rectangular or square silhouettes in soft leathers or fabrics will do the trick.

Proportion

Your bag should work with your size, not against it. A teeny bag only makes a large woman look bigger, and a huge bag is overpowering on a petite woman. So, even though you love big bags you might want to reconsider if the bag looks like it's heavier than you!

Placement

Never thought a bag could make you look slimmer or add bulk? Well, think again! A shoulder bag's length (where the bottom of the bag hits your body) will accentuate whatever part of the body it comes near. For example, a shoulder bag that ends around the hips will play up your hips' width because the eye is drawn to the bag. Women with fuller busts will find bags that hit at or below the waist more flattering. Women with wide hips, on the other hand, should look for a short shoulder bag that sits under the arm. If you're petite, you need a shorter shoulder strap - a bag that is too long can drag you down. As a general rule, most women look great with a bag that hits mid-torso because it flatters the waist.

Colour

A vivid bag is a nice way to divert attention from figure flaws. When you are self-conscious over a certain part of your body, you can divert attention to the great bag you are carrying and what better way to call for attention than bright colours? And if you are dressed in mostly black or monochrome colour, you will be amazed how a great coloured bag can transform your whole look. If you find yourself not up to dressing up, bring a great colour bag out and watch how the bag changes you from plain and dull to chic and casual!

Comfort Is Important

This is definitely an important factor to consider. Think about how you will use the bag and what styles work for you. Some prefer shoulder carry while others adore handhelds. If you will be chucking everything from spare shoes to office files, a shoulder bag might literally leave marks on your shoulder due to the weight. To eliminate the "ouch" factor, you might want to get a handheld instead. Also remember to check the material of the strap itself. If it is made of a stiff material or has rough edges, it can rub you raw!

Does It Serve Its Purpose?

This is an important question to answer indeed! Try putting all your things that you will be carrying and test the weight to make sure it's not too heavy and check to make sure the bag retains its shape after it's fully loaded. If the bag looks like it's about to burst off its seams then you know what to do! You want a bag that can handle your lifestyle so don't fool yourself by saying you don't need to put your favourite lip-gloss or car keys with you when you know fully well that you do.

Getting Organised

We are all guilty of fumbling in our bag rummaging for that elusive car keys or caught in an embarrassing predicament when we try to fish our wallet out. So, a good bag should help you get organise and in this sense the right pocket placement can change your life! Do you need interior pockets for a mobile phone and lipstick? Would exterior pockets make it easier for you to find your car keys and lip balm? These are some things to consider before making the purchase.

Is It Securing Enough For You?

Pickpockets are a common pest these days, so you should think about whether your bag provides you the security you desired. A bag without a top closure has more room and allows easier access - for you and for everyone around you. Check that any bag you buy has a safe compartment for your wallet, phone and other valuables. If it doesn't, you might want to give the bag a miss or consider putting a smaller bag inside to keep your valuables safe.

Well, happy shopping and here's a toast to a bag that is both practical and breathtaking!

Now you can get clued in on what's what!

Tote: An open-top bag with straps or handles.

Hobo Bag: A crescent-shaped shoulder bag.

Duffle: Tall shoulder bag, often with a wider opening on top.

Field Bag: A flap-top shoulder bag with utility-type closure (buckles snaps. etc).

Clutch: A small, handheld bag or a larger, geometric shape that is tucked under the arm.

Satchel: A large, handheld bag.

Baguette: Long and rounded shoulder bag resembling the namesake bread.

Messenger: A large, soft shoulder bag with long straps (often worn across the body).

Cigar Box: A small, boxy, hard bag.

Pouch: A soft, small bag.

Kelly Bag: A classic Hermes style named after Grace Kelly; a large, structured handbag with distinctive hardware closures.