Women have been known to form a first impression of a man by checking out his shoes. What would someone be able to tell about you from looking at your purse? Is it still the same color as when you bought it? Are random papers or electronic devices sticking out of it? Maybe it’s time for a purse makeover or purse upgrade. If you’re ready to go shopping for a new purse, here are some things to consider.
Sizing It Up
You’ve probably noticed the latest trend in purses: They just keep getting bigger and bigger. And trendspotters note that most women are carrying a third more weight in their handbags than they were five years ago. (That can’t be good for your shoulders!) Purses aren’t really purses anymore because we’re carrying cell phones, chargers, iPods, and even laptop computers along with our lipsticks, hairbrushes, and wallets.
Start the search for a new purse by dumping out the contents of your old bag. Do you really need everything you’re carrying? Once you know what’s essential to your day, you can decide how big your bag really needs to be.
Features You Need
Lucky for us, purse designers are keeping up with the bigger-bag trend by making bags with stronger straps and longer-lasting material. The best new handbags come in tote-bag styles with open straps or handles long enough to carry over your shoulder. Of course, look for special pockets inside and out designed to hold all your gadgets. But be honest about what you really need—compartments are only good if you actually use them and don’t misplace stuff inside them.
Large But Light
If you decide you really need an especially large bag, consider a shoulder bag worn across the body with a large, soft shoulder strap. This bold, retro cross-body look echoes the “man-bag” trend that started in the 1980’s, but it can work for you today by dispersing your weight and keeping your posture even and upright. A secret when it comes to style: Floral patterns and lighter colors can lighten the look of a larger bag’s size.
Bags for Your Body
Handbags, like certain clothing and jewelry items, can draw the eye away from areas of your body while focusing attention on parts you’re proud of.
* Stay away from large, oversize tote-style bags if you have short legs; they’ll only make you look shorter. A better choice: a small saddlebag.
* Are you taller than average? Counterbalance your frame with something broad or slouchy.
* If you’re bigger and bustier than average, you need a bigger bag; better yet, try an oversize clutch purse that draws the eye away from your frame.
* Divert attention away from wide hips or a large stomach by choosing a purse that hangs from the shoulder but ends at the upper torso instead of near your middle.
* Fashion trendsetters carry bags that contrast with their body types: Curvy women might choose longer, more rectangular bags, while more willowy types often choose a round purse.
It’s Okay to Cheat On Your Bag
When it comes down to it, you may not be a one-bag woman. If you have different needs for work and home, you might have two classic purses that you switch out depending on where you’re headed. Many women in London and Paris, for example, carry two bags, one for personal belongings and the other for work.
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