A bag shouldn’t just be a place for storing your wallet, keys and other items - it should be a reflection of your style, personality and complement your wardrobe as well as meeting your needs. Believe it or not, there is a right and a wrong way to choose a bag. From color and style to size, choosing the wrong kind of bag can make or break your overall look.

One of the first things to think about when shopping is what do you need your bag for? Are you in need of a main bag to house all of your must have items in addition to the basics or a simpler bag that you can easily carry around? The size of your bag will also be determined by what you need your bag for. Larger bags are ideal for carrying just about anything from small items to larger ones like books, day planners, clothing, etc. Smaller purses mean limited space and you’ll need to find the right one with enough compartments to contain your credit cards, money and other stuff.

For those seeking a larger sized bag, you’ll love the following styles: the shopper bag (large with an open mouth and no zipper), the satchel bag (large with a short handle and open top), the messenger bag (large bag with a long shoulder strap and flap on top), the tote bag (large with open mouth and either short or long shoulder straps/handle) or the bucket bag (large, deep bag with short handles). Need a smaller bag to get the job done? Then you’ll want to look into the following styles: the clutch (small bag with no strap or handle and is often hand held) and the barrel bag (small with a rounded, barrel shaped body with a long strap). Looking for a bag somewhere in between? Then you’ll enjoy the hobo bag, which is a popular, medium sized bag with a long strap and a wide, scooped opening on top.

In addition to the practical factors such as size and purpose, you can also find a bag according to color, style and material. In terms of color, you can choose from a solid shade or print. Keep in mind whether the bag you choose will suit the majority of your wardrobe - this will be especially true if you plan on using this as your main bag. There are other options to consider in finding your ideal bag, such as the type of opening. Do you prefer zippers, magnetic closures, drawstrings, flaps or open mouthed? Straps are also important to consider. There are short straps and long straps, as well as thin or thick ones.

Did you know that the style and size of your bag can also flatter your body shape? Petite women will want to avoid large, oversized bags, which can swallow you in size by comparison and make you appear even smaller. Plus size women should opt for medium sized bags. Hour glass shaped women look great with totes or clutches. Slender women with little to no curves who are more on the athletic side should look into purchasing a hobo or satchel bag.

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