Are you thinking of changing your handbag, but unsure which style suits your preferences and outfit? Looking for some tips on how to pick the perfect colour or material? Need advice on how to organise your bags?
You’re in the right place.
As a fashion enthusiast, I believe that a handbag is an essential part of any outfit and should be selected with care to perfectly match the rest of your attire and fit your needs.
That's why I've decided to dedicate this comprehensive guide to this essential accessory, so that it will have no secrets for you anymore!
To choose the right handbag, it should match your lifestyle (size, usage, etc.) and your fashion style. If you prefer a bohemian look, go for a fabric or colourful leather bag with a crossbody strap. Are you more of a rock and roll type? A black leather bag with metallic details will be perfect to accentuate your style. Lastly, if you're looking for something classic, make sure to select a colour that complements the tones you wear most often (neutrals, warm, cool), with an elegant cut and sturdy material. If you have several bags, do organise them well so you can easily pick the one that goes best with your outfit.
Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:
- How to choose a handbag that is both practical and stylish,
- Tips for selecting a material and colour that complements your wardrobe,
- How to identify a quality handbag,
- Practical and aesthetically pleasing storage ideas,
- And plenty of other tips to help you find the handbag of your dreams!
What type of handbag should you buy?
Both stylish and practical, a handbag is an essential everyday accessory. To stay trendy while being able to carry all your belongings, it’s important to pick one carefully. 😉
Depending on Your Lifestyle
To decide on the type of bag to take, it's important to first consider the practical aspects related to it. Here are some questions that can guide you in your choice:
🔸 What do you need to put inside?
If you need to carry a laptop, documents, or other bulky items in your bag, make sure to choose a size that fits.
🔸 Do you often place it on the ground? Is it frequently exposed to the elements?
If that's the case, consider choosing a material that is durable and resistant to moisture. Fabric bags are not ideal as they can easily absorb moisture, while leather requires a lot of maintenance under such conditions. Therefore, synthentic materials would be a better option.
🔸 Do you frequently take public transport?
In this case, your bag should not be too bulky so that it doesn't get in your way. It's also important that it closes well, to protect you from theft. There are even bags that are reinforced at the bottom or have hidden pockets designed specifically for this purpose.
Based on Your Style
Do you have a unique style that defines you and inspires you every day? Or perhaps you have certain fashion trends that you prefer over others? Don't hesitate to trust your instincts when it comes to choosing your handbag:
- Prefer a rock vibe with dark colours? Go for a leather handbag in black or dark shades, featuring metallic details like studs, buttons, or zippers.
- Sticking to a classic and elegant look? In that case, you can opt for leather or smooth synthetic materials. A structured handbag that stands upright will add a touch of chic to your outfit.
- Love the boho chic style and comfy outfits? A colourful fabric handbag, possibly with a shoulder strap, can quickly become your best companion.
👉 If the bohemian trend speaks to you, feel free to check out our collection of bags on our online boutique dedicated to this style! You'll find many unique designs there!
Which material should you choose?
The material you choose for your bag is crucial, as it will affect its lifespan, maintenance, and your style.
Leather, suede, or nubuck bags are often favoured by many women because they are practical, durable, and visually appealing. However, they require proper care and can easily get stained with ink, which can be irreversible.
Fabric bags are quite suitable for summer or casual outings, but they are rarely fit for a chic outfit.
Certain synthetic materials can be a good alternative:
- Faux leather, for those who prefer a vegan-friendly option,
- Vinyl, because it’s waterproof,
- Rattan or braided twine, to showcase your boho style,
- And even plastic, for a vibrant and original 90s look!
How to Choose the Colour of Your Handbag?
If you prefer to keep it classic, go for neutral shades like black, navy blue, grey, or brown. Be cautious with white, as it tends to get dirty easily and should be reserved for special occasions.
Natural tones like cream, ecru, or camel are perfect for adding some depth to your outfit while keeping it understated and classy.
Choosing a colourful handbag is a great way to brighten up your outfit while also showcasing a bit of your personality. Opt for a colour that complements your wardrobe. If your wardrobe mainly consists of warm tones, consider shades like red or mustard yellow. If you tend to wear cool tones, fuchsia pink, green, or bright blue would suit you well. You can also choose to play with contrasts by doing the opposite!
👉 If you love brightly colored handbags, why not start building a small collection over time? Changing your handbag according to your outfit is a fun way to stay trendy! And if you don’t want the hassle of moving all your belongings every time, you can always invest in a pouch that fits your bags, which you can easily switch out with each bag. 😉
Which handbag brand should you choose?
Chanel, Vuitton, Longchamp… there’s no shortage of famous handbag brands! It’s on the runways where new trends emerge, and if you’re looking to treat yourself to something nice, a branded handbag could be a great choice. However, if you prefer to use a handbag daily and like to switch things up, I recommend having a few, not necessarily branded. This way, for instance, you can easily change bags when you're on holiday or match your bag with your outfit while keeping that stylish look!
Find Out About Its Maintenance
When you're buying a handbag, be sure to do some research on how to maintain it. Sometimes, all it takes is a few products to keep it looking new for years!
For example, a smooth leather bag can usually be refreshed with saddle soap, and then waterproofed. For suede and nubuck, there are spray renovators available that help these delicate fabrics regain their original colour.
Lastly, when it comes to fabric bags, do consider placing them in a protective bag or a pillowcase before putting them in the washing machine to prevent any damage.
How to Organise Your Handbags?
When you start accumulating multiple handbags, organizing them can become quite a challenge! Here are some tips to help you with this task.
In a Suitable Furniture
Just like your clothes and other useful items in your home, it’s important that your handbags are all visible and displayed nicely if you want to change them frequently and easily. If you simply toss them into a plastic box, for example, they won't be easy to sort through, may get tangled, and could even develop mould due to dampness and lack of airflow.
I recommend that, if possible, you place them on a piece of furniture:
🔸 Shoulder bags can be hung on hooks, making them easy to store.
🔸 You can organise handbags on shelves by placing a divider between each bag or set of bags, making it easy to tell them apart and preventing them from getting tangled. If you don’t have a divider, cubby shelves also work well.
👉 Keep your handbags in the same room as your clothes: it will make it easier for you to create matching outfits and try them on!
By Sorting Them
To easily choose your handbag in the morning, it’s important to have an effective sorting method. There are various options available; just pick the one that suits your style, needs, and the number of handbags you own. For instance, you could sort them in the following ways:
- by colour, to achieve a very aesthetic and practical result if you have lots of colourful clothing,
- by size, if you need large volumes for specific occasions,
- by type, if you switch between handbag, backpack, clutch, and crossbody bag,
- by usage frequency, showcasing your favourite bags so you can find them quickly!
I hope this article has helped you to find the handbag that suits you and matches your style! Are you a fashion enthusiast? Check out our online women's fashion store, where you'll find iconic pieces from bohemian fashion, such as long dresses, skirts, tops…