Top tips for buying a handbag

Friday, January 4, 2013

If there’s one accessory that every girl loves, it’s a fabulous new handbag. Yet when it comes to this must-have wardrobe item – it’s really not a case of one size fits all. From classy little clutches to oversized satchels, there are a huge variety of handbags available to suit any outfit and any social scene.  

If you’re on the prowl for a new bag, or looking to update your current collection, here’s the ultimate guide to buying a new handbag: 

Quality 
A handbag is one of those items that you need to invest in. It’s very hard to get away with a cheap or poor quality bag. Plastic based bag materials are also very hard to conceal, as is bad quality imitation leather. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but you do need to check that the bag wont fall apart after a few wears 

Colour 
There is an age-old rule that says a girl must always match their handbag colour to their shoes. While these old “fashion mantras” aren’t as rigid as they were in decades past, it’s still a good thing to keep in mind, particularly when avoiding colours and shades that clash.  

If you tend to always wear brown boots, a black leather handbag won’t match seamlessly like a brown leather one will. On the other hand, if you tend to always wear dark clothing, a brightly coloured handbag is just the thing to liven up any outfit.  Red is a great for adding a splash of colour to a little black dress, and also works perfectly when matched with a nautical themed outfit that is bang on trend this season.  


Size 
The size of your handbag is usually dictated by what you intend to use it for. Clutches are best suited for things like formal occasions or when heading on a night out with friends. The small size is perfect for fitting in all of the necessities for a great night out – lipstick, car keys, phone and a purse. 

On the other end of the spectrum, some of the other popular hand bag styles that take up a little more room include the Tote Bag (medium to large sized, perfect for a day spent shopping with friends), the Duffle Bag (ideal for stuffing in gym clothes or taking for a sleep over) or the Bucket bag, shaped much like its name suggests and ideal for adding a bit of shape and structure to your outfit.