One of the best friends of women is her Handbag. What ever be the occasion there is no reason for a woman to ignore her handbag.

History of handbags:

Handbags were first mentioned in English literature from the time of 14th century. Bags called "girdles" which were fastened to the waists were seen in Egyptian Hieroglyphs.

In 16th century cloth bags were used that were made larger mainly used for traveling purposes. They were to be strapped diagonally across the body.

In 18th century fashionable ladies started carrying “reticules” which were more like the modern day handbags. They contained accessories for make-up and other miscellaneous things.

But the term “handbag” came into use in earlier 1900’s which was know as “Hand-held” luggage bag carried by men. This became an inspiration for new bags for women who have different compartments and locks.

Further in 1920’s light cloth varieties were used with varying hemlines and designs. Wood and plastic made bags started to be made in 1940’s. Gradually from 1950‘s different materials and metals were also used and designing companies were started.

In 1960’s new trendy handbags came into existence.

Thus with a humble origin in the ancient times the handbag’s use began to grow and along with the varied varieties its usages also increased. The handbag has become even more significant over the past two decades due to the fact that women now do not wear as much fashion. In the 1940's women used to dress in total fashion. But now clothes are mixed and matched and handbag has become part of the attire. It now expresses the new freedom of fashion.

Types of Handbags:

Not all handbags are equal in design. They may be classic, trendy, practical, and some simple arm candies. There are one for each different occasion, use, size and people.

Some types based on their size and use:

1.         Accordion: With two or three pouches side by side, fastened together by stitching, snaps or fasteners to allow expansion or contraction of the bag, according to its capacity.

2.         Baguette: Carried under the arm bag which is long, small or narrow bag with a shoulder strap.

3.         Balantine: Made of leather, fabric or metal, suspended from a long cord (comes up to knee length).

4.         Pompadour: Small velvet or lace pouches used to carry small item and are worn hanging from a cord.

5.         Pouchette: Also called a “clutch”, it’s a bag without a handle or shoulder strap.

6.         Reticule:  String, net or mesh are used and was once used for provisions or tools.

7.         Rucksack/Backpack:  Carried on the back and is held in place by two buckled straps and closed by a drawstring which is sometimes concealed under a flap.

8.         Bucket Bag: It is also known as "carryall" bag. Sometimes closed by a flap with a loop but usually open.

9.         Purses: Basically are large pouches, can be used by both men and women.

The Handbags will be continually changing with new invention and re-invention. They will be done in terry cloth, tweed, with sequins on it, fabric appliqués, jewels, clasps, leather, fur and other most recognizable elements.

Does your Handbag suit your personality?

For a woman, the bag holds not only the things they need for the day but it is also a personal glamour shop, which is very important to their identity. We can know things about a women’s personality just by looking at the type of handbag she sports.

Styles:

Under-the Shoulder – Handbags: Smaller and tightly fitting underneath the shoulder indicate class and sophistication. Working and some high status women prefer this type of style.

Big and Bulky Handbags– Are casual and are often associated with younger individuals. Used mostly by individuals who carry several things (binders, books etc) and require a lot of space. Signifies down-to-earth, lower-maintenance women.

Designer handbags – Associated with high-maintenance females. These are ones who are confident and require top of the line accessories. Rich and very choosy by nature.

Cigar Box Purses –These like to be unique and stand out from the crowd. They have minds of their own, comfortable in their own Style and very independent.

Colors:

Bright Colors – Pink, purple, bright blue and green indicate that the woman is fun, friendly and approachable. Their nature is out-going and sociable.

Black and Brown –More reserved in nature and often mistaken as being snobby or restricted, often associated with down-to-earth women, who are shy at first, but open slowly. They tend to exude a shy confidence

Handbag for different body types:

Handbags are available in market with different sizes and styles but not everything will suit everyone, as the body structure varies from person to person. So depending on the body type a handbag can be chosen.

• If the body type is tall and thin- Almost any bag will suit but the size should be considered. Small ones would make them look taller .So small snug fitting one under their shoulders would suit. Clutches, oversized handbags and shoulder bags will also suit.
• If the body type is short and plump: Small bags are much better then large oversized bags. The large ones will overpower them and make them look shorter. Shorter purses that fit tight over the body are more suitable.
• If the body type is curvy: A medium size bag which is just above the waistline will suit to their body shape.
• If body type is plus size (i.e. fat): Large bags with wider length is ideal than the shorter bags which make them look bigger.

The type of handbag that will suit will not only depend on body type, but also on the outfit. Handbags can also be chosen according to the mood and occasion.

Conclusion:

In fashion, it's the little things that mean a lot. For a woman, the bag can become a part of her identity. While the inside of a woman's bag is hypothetically personal and intimate, the outside is a commercial, selling one's place in the world. The handbags always remain as a desirable item and come under necessities. So while buying one we can consider all or some of the above facts and pick the one which signifies us.