Types of Handbags for Every Occasion

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Almost every woman needs a bag of some kind. You might be the kind of hardcore minimalist who really can fit everything in her pockets... but what about when you're wearing an outfit that doesn't have any pockets? I told you, you need a handbag.

Maybe you're on the other end of the spectrum, and your closet looks like Carrie Bradshaw's. You might have a bag for every occasion (and then some).

Whether you're more of an Upper West Side princess or followed Marie Kondo to rid your life of everything that doesn't spark joy - chances are that at some point, you will find yourself at the mall, rifling through different types of handbags to find the perfect one for some occasion.

Check out this guide; we've got some tips to share!

EVERYDAY BAGS

If you're not shopping for a particular occasion, you can choose just about any bag for your everyday bag.

When choosing an everyday bag, think about your habits, types of activities, and general needs. For what occasions do you usually use a bag?

Do you like to travel light?

Maybe you can get by with something small and casual that holds your phone and wallet. A small handbag is great for going somewhere quickly where you don't need many accessories.

Medium bags are a little more versatile than a small handbag, allowing you to carry a pair of sunglasses, some tissues, lip balm, and maybe even a light scarf for air-conditioned spaces.

Consider what types of handbags you would be happy to wear every day - some people prefer large or medium shoulder bags, while others like a smaller crossbody bag.

Maybe you are most comfortable with a backpack that you can wear on both shoulders. There are endless options to choose from - so many that it might feel overwhelming to find the perfect bag for you.

But don't fret, we'll cover some great go-to options for you!

INTERVIEWS

When you go for an interview, you want to look your best and give off a good impression.

A woman and her style help make that first impression.

You never know who your interviewer is, what their preferences are, or what belief systems they have. It's best to steer clear of quirky or loud accessories since you never know what will make a (bad) impression.

Still, now is not the time to be boring. Be sure to choose a bag that shows your style, so that you stick out in a good way.

If you need to bring some notes or a laptop with you, a satchel is a perfect option. Usually medium to large, a satchel generally has enough space to carry anything you would need to bring with you.

A satchel will generally include a small carrying strap at the top of the bag that allows you to carry it like a briefcase, as well as an extended shoulder staff (often removable) to carry it on your shoulder.

When shopping for interview bags, stick with neutral or classic shades like black, beige, navy, tan or burgundy.

The Terra shoulder bag is a satchel-style professional-looking tote bag available in a rainbow of colors. Functional, stylish and polished, it is the perfect bag to carry to an interview.

The Tatiana bag has a slightly more retro vibe but is still structured and professional looking.

SHOPPING

The tote bag is a big, roomy bag that can hold almost every item you want to carry.

The broad straps make it easier to carry, and as long as you chose good quality woven materials, the bag can hold a lot of weight.

Try the Freya corduroy tote bag to look stylish while running errands.

These casual bags are large enough that if you don't make too many purchases, you can carry them with you. A backpack sits on both your shoulders with the help of the straps.

There are many types of backpacks with varying widths of straps. One significant benefit of carrying a backpack is the way it distributes the weight you are carrying.

Backpacks are generally more comfortable to wear if you need to carry things like groceries. One of the best ways we can improve the world is by using less plastic waste.

Reducing the need for plastic throw-away shopping bags is a great start! Having multiple tote bags for shopping has become the new norm for an urban woman.

NIGHT OUT

On a night out, you need only a few things: keys, phone, money, and cards. Who wants to spend their night out keeping track of a bunch of stuff?

Leave the excess at home and step out with a cute little handbag. Mini handbags are great. They can hang around your neck like a necklace, keeping your hands free.

Crossbody types like the Journey crossbody bag are also perfect for an evening out.

They can be a little larger and hold a few extra things that you might need to take with you - like makeup - and they keep your hands free.

We love the Mabel crossbody bag with its adorable bow and wide range of hues to match any outfit. Please take a look at our handbag collection to find inspiration for your next night on the town.

FORMAL EVENTS

Clutches, as the name suggests, can easily be held in your hands.

They are classy and elegant - perfect for a reception, gala, or formal dinner.

They are a representation of how much you value putting in an extra effort that is needed to hold a clutch.

Instead of going for an easy handbag to carry, you glide across rooms in pure sophistication and dedication.

Depending on the outfit, clutches in natural colors or vibrant two-tones are always a popular choice. You can also go for a minaudiere - a clutch encrusted with colored stones, gems, pearls, and oozes grandeur.

The Gabrielle, with its pastel faux-leather aesthetic, is a unique choice to accessorize a formal look. If you prefer a clutch for other types of occasions, the Isabella embroidered clutch features brilliantly colored stitching on a black background.

Bonus - since the Isabella features a rainbow of colors, it should be a perfect, chic match for any outfit you choose to wear. Both bags are excellent choices for the evening.

TRAVEL BAGS

Whether you choose a tote bag, messenger-style bag, or a backpack for your traveling bag, you want to make sure your bag has compartments that allow you to organize the things you'll need to remove during your security check.

Many types of handbags offer compartments, so the style you choose isn't as crucial as its ultimate functionality.

The Cleo canvas messenger bag is an excellent choice for a travel bag.

They are not so big that you'd need to check them but are large enough for all your travel essentials. Their soft sides mean you can easily stow them under the seat in front of you, and they can expand to hold all those magazines you subscribe to but haven't had time to read yet.

What are your favorite bags to wear? Have we left any occasions out? Leave your bag suggestions in the comments section.