How To Choose the Perfect Handbag

With all the different handbag designs and trends out there, it’s hard to find the perfect bag that complements our personal style. When going to purchase a handbag, many women solely focus on the trends and styles that are current instead of focusing on their personal style, desired usage, and budget. They go to the store, see that beautiful trendy, expensive, designer bag, and they don’t consider that they could get that same look or better for less if they shop around a bit more. There are four things to consider when purchasing a handbag.

1. Form vs. Function

So, you need to buy a bag? What’s the occasion? Are you buying a handbag for a special occasion or for daily use? If you’re purchasing a bag for a special occasion or limited use, you might want to consider a clutch or a small bag to fit only the essentials you will need for that specific event. You also want to make sure it matches whatever you’ll be wearing that night.

If you’re purchasing a handbag for everyday use, there are a few more things to think about. The primary reason why women use handbags is because of the function. It provides a place for us to carry our most cherished treasure like our makeup, money, and cell phone among other things. Organization is key when you have to get to whatever you need in your bag quickly.

You want to make sure that the handbag you purchase has plenty of room for all your things. Does it have an easy access place for your cell phone? Does it have enough room for your makeup? Do you need a place to store your change and get to it quickly? Or are you the kind of women that uses her credit card for all purchases including gum? In that case, does the handbag have enough room to store your wallet and other important items?

The look and style of the bag on the outside is very important but one of the things many women overlook when purchasing a handbag is the inner lining. If the fabric that the bag has inside is dark, it’s going to be very difficult to find your things, especially at night. On the other hand, if the lining is a bright color, you will be able to see everything much more easily, making it more convenient to use that bag.

2. Mix and Match

Now that you’ve decided how you will use your bag and how much space you need, it’s time to decide on the style. Sure there’s lot of nice trends out there, but they may not necessarily reflect your personal style and budget. That’s when it is time to be bold and go against the trend if necessary. I’m not saying to go and get the most hideous bag out there just because it’s got all the right pockets and it’s the right price, but don’t feel the pressure to stay with the trends and do what’s right for you. One of the most beautiful and inspirational things is individual style; don’t be afraid to express yours.

If you’re choosing to buy a bag for everyday use, make sure you choose a bag whose color and style compliments any outfit you wear. There are many different styles out there to satisfy our taste. Consider the following elements when choosing your bag:

• Color
• Fabric, leather, suede
• Size of shoulder strap
• Overall size and shape

3. Budget

With all the different types of handbags out there from low-end to designer, prices can range dramatically. Set aside a dollar amount that you’re comfortable with for your bag. It’s nice to splurge once in a while, but just make sure that you can handle it.

If you’re budget is on the lower end of the scale, there are plenty of discount stores everywhere for you to make your purchase. Also consider discount online retailers. You may also find a larger variety of styles by shopping online, but remember that you won’t be able to inspect the bag like you would if you were shopping in a local store.

4. Easy Online Shopping

Now websites like Amazon make shopping for handbags super easy. They give you a huge variety of styles at prices that are perfect for your budget. The best part is, they display detailed photos of each handbag. Not only do most product listings show exterior front, back and sides of the handbag, but now they also supply detailed photos of the inside pockets and compartment of the bag. Now that makes shopping for a handbag online super easy!

So, the next time you’re ready to buy your perfect handbag, don’t forget to stay true to your personal style and stay within your budget. And remember, you don't even have to leave your home to go shopping!