Ah yes – the humble bag. A woman’s most trusted companion on all of life’s adventures, whether it be shopping trips or holiday travels and weekend getaways. Not only is it essential for carrying everyday items, but it is also a great way to express your personality since there are so many styles and types to choose from.
Contents
What Are the Different Types of Women’s Bags?
Over the years, these accessories have undergone a lot of changes, mainly due to the fickle nature of trends. Some have remained timeless and are still worn today, while others have come and gone. Among those evergreen styles, there are the classics such as:
Sling Purse
As the name suggests, this type of bag is worn across the body resting on one shoulder and is usually held closed with a buckle or drawstring. The modern and trendy women’s sling purse has come a long way since its origin in the 16th century, with numerous key updates such as zipper closures and adjustable straps.
The way it’s worn offers endless functionality and ease of access, making it the ideal companion for errands and weekend outings. If you ever need something from inside your bag, all you have to do is take a quick second and flip it over to your front side.
Most women’s sling bags come with multiple pockets for keeping your belongings organised and secure. Some have larger zippered compartments for items like your wallet, and others have small pockets designed to keep things such as lipstick or keys.
The strap itself can be altered to provide a comfortable fit, with varying lengths for short and tall individuals. A good rule of thumb is to go for a length that allows your women’s sling purse to rest no lower than your hip, as anything lower can be uncomfortable and cumbersome. Going higher is usually fine, but you’ll want to make sure that the strap isn’t too tight around your shoulders.
As for design and aesthetics, sling purses have no shortage of variety. From plain black and brown hues for a minimalistic look to bold and vibrant colours for a more eye-catching style, there’s something for everyone. You can even opt for floral patterns or geometric designs for something more unique.
Shoulder Bag
Another classic, the shoulder bag has been around since the 1800s and is a staple in most wardrobes. It is typically worn on one side of the body and stays in place with a strap that sits on your shoulder. Unlike sling models, shoulder bags don’t normally go across the body, resulting in something that’s a bit more comfortable to wear over long periods.
These bags are usually larger than sling styles, making them ideal for carrying multiple items for day trips or longer journeys. Of course, they look great with casual outfits as well, coming in an assortment of designs and patterns that match whatever your style preference may be.
Hobo Bag
This type of bag is a bit more relaxed and laid-back in comparison to other models. It’s usually made from a soft material such as leather, and has a slouchy, curved shape. It’s also much bigger than sling and shoulder bags, giving you ample room for carrying all your daily items.
One of the best things about a hobo bag is that it can be worn in multiple ways. If you’re feeling more traditional, you can go for the classic single-strap design, which is comfortable and stylish. For a more distinctive look, try wearing it with two straps on both sides of your body, with the bag resting at your waist level.
Tote
A trend that’s only recently gained massive popularity is the tote bag. It’s essentially a large piece with two short handles, made from materials such as canvas or cotton. It’s perfect for carrying books and other items that don’t fit inside smaller purses.
The only downside is that it doesn’t come with zippers or inner pockets, meaning your belongings aren’t as secure. You can’t exactly organise it either, which can be a bit of an issue if you have lots of things to carry.
Clutch
This is the classic go-to for special occasions and is usually used by women who want to look elegant. It’s a small bag that typically doesn’t come with straps or handles. Most models are designed to be held in your hand, hence the name, although some may come with a small clip to attach it to your belt loops.
Despite the lack of straps, the clutch is still ideal for carrying small items such as your phone, wallet, and keys. It’s a superb choice for evening events and other formal functions, as its size allows it to fit nearly everywhere.
Wristlet
Similar to a clutch, the wristlet is smaller in size compared to other models but it comes with a small strap or handle. It’s designed to be worn around your wrist, allowing you to carry it without having to hold it with your hands.
Wristlets are perfect for carrying light items and leaving your hands free. They’re also a great choice for busy days, especially if you want to keep your purse close while running errands or going out.
Backpack
Finally, the traditional backpack is more than just a school essential. Its timeless shape and design make it perfect for carrying everything from laptops to sports gear. Thanks to the two straps, you can carry it without feeling any strain on your shoulders.
Most backpacks come with multiple compartments and pockets, allowing you to organise your items in an efficient manner. They’re also a great choice for travelling, as the straps can be conveniently adjusted to fit your body size.