Image of different types of women’s handbags hanging in rack including a tote, backpack, shoulder bag, clutch and few other depicting everything you need to know about most essential women's handbags.

Before talking about women’s handbags, how many of you have heard a woman say, “I already have enough handbags; I don’t need any more”? Hope none. There isn’t a single woman on the planet who would claim that one handbag or one pair of shoes is sufficient. Only a woman understands the importance of handbags in her life and it’s simply something that all women adore and secretly desire. Women, after all, enjoy mixing up their looks and having a variety of choices.

The key of the world’s most fashionable women is to invest in basics. This means the basics that complement their personal aesthetic and are simple to work around for every occasion and look, rather than succumbing to impulse purchases. The best way to build the ultimate accessories wardrobe is to start with basic styles. So, do you think you’ve covered all of the essentials? We’ve listed the main types of women’s handbags every woman should have in her wardrobe.

How Many Handbags Does a Woman Need?

Typically, a woman needs at least four bags, which you want to use for work, travel, casual meetings, and special occasions. However, according to a survey, the average woman owns seven handbags.

What Is the Most Versatile Handbag Color?

Unlike men, most of the women are very cautious about the color of their outfit, nail, shoes, hair, eyeshadow and the list goes on. However, you don’t have to stand in front of your open wardrobe, unsure of which bag to match with your outfit. There are a few colors that go with everything, making your decision easy. So why wait to purchase your favorite type of bag in few of these colors?

  • Black is a favorite classic color that goes with everything.
  • Depending on the design of the purse, a white handbag may suit for a casual, business, or formal look.
  • Browns are a warm color that works well with almost every other color. Consider if your outfit is warm or cold, and then choose the appropriate brown shade.
  • Light gray works well in both casual and business settings. It’s a great bag color for a more formal occasion.
  • Green is a neutral color because it goes with almost everything like blue, red, white, yellow, black, and gray.
  • Beige or nude color bags also go with everything, whether you’re dressing up for a holiday festival or a party.
  • Gold, silver, copper and brass are metallic colors that can use as accent colors in your wardrobe.
  • When it comes to coordinating colors, a multi-colored bag will also go with anything in your wardrobe. Consider the different colors in your closet when looking for a multi-colored purse, and then select a purse that has the most colors reflected in your wardrobe.

What Bags Should Every Woman Have?

Here is a list of eight different types of bags that every woman should have for various occasions and styles. So keep reading to find out what’s missing from your wardrobe.

  1. Tote Bag
  2. Weekender or Duffle Bags
  3. Clutch
  4. Backpack
  5. Shoulder Bag
  6. Bucket Bag
  7. Crossbody Bag
  8. Bum Bag

So, now you can avoid being distracted by the many shopping options and start focusing on the most essential ones. Let’s start with totes!

1. Tote Bag

The majority of women are likely to own this sort of ladies’ bag. The tote’s versatility makes it a practical and trendy handbag.

It’s ideal for storing all of a woman’s essentials. Ladies may worry about missing out on something when they really need it. As a result, they are more than likely to be prepared for any possible event. These are the bags you’ll always be happy you own, whether it’s for a book you can’t put down, your lunch, water bottle, umbrella, your iPad, or a spare scarf.  Yes, you read that correctly: a woman carries a LOT in her bag.

Some tote bags have a front slip pocket, a zip pocket, and/or a hidden top pocket that is suitable for holding your wallet, phone, sanitary product, or snacks that you need instantly but don’t want to be seen with.

Tote bags, which are usually made of fabric come in a variety of sizes. Also they are useful for a variety of purposes. From reusable shopping tote bags to waterproof pool tote bags and zip top leather tote bags, there are several choices. You can choose what one best suits your needs!

Tote bags are ideal for a variety of occasions. They’re the ideal everyday companion if you’re going to work, on a weekend getaway, going to a picnic, the gym, the pool, traveling, or even going to the movies to carry all your snacks. Not only that, but you can get a small tote to use as a laundry bag when you’re away from home; or get a big tote to hold everything in one place around your home.  If you’re a creative person who loves knitting and DIY crafts, a tote bag can easily carry your supplies and keep them secure while not in use.

Some women’s handbags to try out – tote bags

  • Nodykka Women Tote Bags Top Handle Satchel Handbag – A timeless silhouette designed for a sophisticated, modern woman.
  • Dreubea Women’s Soft Faux Leather Tote Shoulder Bag – On the inside, there’s a pocket for your phone and other small items like gum and stuff.
  • BAG WIZARD Women Laptop Tote Bag – This sturdy everyday tote bag is made of sturdy duck canvas and cute stripe lining, with double-rolled handles and a leather stitch to carry even your laptop, as the name suggests.

2. Weekender or Duffle Bags

A large bag made of natural or synthetic cloth is known as a weekender bag, duffle bag, or kit bag. Planning to go on a short trip where lugging around a large suitcase seems a little excessive? The answer is a roomy, high-quality weekender bag. They’re great for last-minute outings, for the gym, going on a business trip, staying with a friend, or going on a short weekend getaway. They have enough space for everything you’ll need for two days.

They make it easy to reach your belongings and are lightweight, making them easy to carry. Many companies make rolling duffel bags for added comfort because duffel bags are so ideal for travel.

Since they’re compact and simple to clean, duffel bags are also perfect gym bags. Gym clothing, an additional collection of street clothes, shoes, and personal things like shampoo can all be stored in them. Duffel bags usually fit into gym lockers. This allows you to carry all of your belongings with you while keeping them secure.

Not only that, there are specially made duffel bags with waterproof covers and pockets for business essentials, like a laptop, documents and files. You can opt for leather duffel bags to stand out at your office.

Some women’s handbags to try out – duffle bags

  • Vooray Iconic Duffel Bag – A side zip exterior pocket, a secret exterior phone slot, an elastic stretch-fit sleeve for your water bottle, and an internal mesh pocket are all included in the Iconic Duffel Bag.
  • Vera Bradley Women’s Signature Cotton Small Travel Duffel Bag – Quilted cotton fabric is lightweight yet sturdy, and it comes in a number of vibrant designs.
  • HYC00 Travel Duffel Bag – This bag’s high density water resistant material can help you isolate dry and wet items.
  • BLUBOON Sport Gym Duffle Travel Bag – No more concerns about water with this nylon fabric that is both water and wear resistant.

3. Clutch

The word “clutch bag” will describe a wide range of bags. There is no particular series of dimensions or characteristics that identify it. The clutch bag is essentially a small, flat handbag with no handles or straps. However, larger bags with a handle or detachable straps are often called clutch bags. The bag’s two most distinguishing characteristics are its slimness and its primary use as a hand held bag. Clutches had all but vanished from modernity at one stage. However, the clutch has resurfaced in cool oversized designs and fascinating fabrics that will elevate your look in 2021.

Day Clutch

The envelope clutch is a day clutch that will polish off your casual look. You may not consider this style to be essential, but it is large enough to hold all of your belongings while going out for coffee with your friends or for fancy weekend events. A light-colored day clutch is a must-have.

Sometimes you can use it as an office clutch. But they are much larger than a typical clutch and will most likely have interior pockets. It may be a bag that you tuck into a larger bag. It would undoubtedly be a more fashionable bag to bring into a meeting than the overflowing tote.

Otherwise, you don’t want to be holding a bag that is constantly in your way and must be clutched. However, on the other hand, we must admit that these look fantastic with gowns and make an elegant statement.

Some women’s handbags to try out – day clutches

  • JOSEKO Clutch Purses for Women – With an elegant cotton surface and a tassel, it’s made of polyester cotton and has a modern knit look.
  • HOBO Lauren – 6 credit card slots, 1 bill pocket, and large slip pockets features in the 2 clasp closure pockets.
  • NIGEDU Women Crocodile Grain PU Leather Envelope Clutch Bag – Oversized envelope design

Evening Clutch

Nothing is more ideal than a stylish clutch that complements your evening dress. An evening clutch is a must-have accessory for any woman. What exactly do you need to bring? Credit card, car keys, phone, or nothing at all are all possibilities. After all, the primary purpose of an evening clutch is to provide glamour and unrestricted freedom.  They are available in a variety of styles and colors, so you will have no trouble finding the right one for you.

Some women’s handbags to try out – evening clutches

  • Womens Pleated Satin Evening Handbag Clutch – Perfect Luster brass, pleated, ruffled satin fabric, and a sturdy magnetic snap closure keep your valuables safe inside.
  • Charming Tailor Envelope Purse Formal Faux Suede Clutch – Great dress accessory for day to night, with a metal binding flap and shimmering allover rhinestone details.
  • Tanpell Womens Crystal Evening Clutch Bag – The leaves on the surface are made of exceptional electroplating hardware that resists rust, corrosion, and tarnishing, and preventing discoloration.

4. Backpack

For younger generations, this sort of bag is a must-have. However, we must admit that for a more grown up woman, backpacks are certainly less of a closet staple. We hope you can’t picture your mother, and certainly not your grandmother, wearing a backpack.

Backpacks are ideal for outings, jobs, going to the gym, bringing a laptop, dressing up a plain suit, short trips, and so on. Backpacks, on the other hand, are a stylish, versatile, and practical handbag. It’s beyond fine and that’s why we say it is a wardrobe must-have. You can even hold your life in a bag and avoid the pain of a nagging shoulder spasm. You can spread the weight equally over both shoulders, keep your hands free, and still look cool. There are several different types and colors to choose from to fit your mood.

Some women’s handbags to try out – backpacks

  • Telena Travel Backpack for Women – The anti-theft nature of the back zipper closure is very effective.
  • ZOCILOR Women’s Fashion Purse Backpack – Design for multiple uses such as handbag, backpack, purse, and shoulder bag all convert easily.
  • CLUCI  Backpack Purse for Women with Large Designer Fashion Leather – This large ladies backpack purse can be used as a weekend getaway bag, daily women’s purse, and also as a business travel tote.

5. Shoulder Bag

The shoulder bag is one of the most common handbag styles. It’s called a “shoulder” bag since it has both short handles and longer shoulder straps. Many women tend to keep the handles of this fashion accessory or wear it on their arm for a casual, effortless look. Since this is the bag you’ll most likely use for the long – term, we suggest devoting a little more time and money to it.

They come in a variety of fabrics, designs, and colors. Designer shoulder handbags are the pinnacle of the shoulder handbag world; they’re typically flat and rectangular in form, made of high-quality leather, and come in a range of colors.

Some women’s handbags to try out – shoulder bags

  • DOURR Women’s Multi-Pocket Shoulder Bag – This bag features three wide compartments and can accommodate all of your everyday necessities and keep your belongings neatly organized.
  • Small Shoulder Bags for Women with Croc Pattern – It’s perfect for shopping, dating, parties, work, and so on.
  • KEYLI Women Handbags Faux Leather Shoulder Bag – It has the appearance of being high-end and costly, but it isn’t.

6. Bucket Bag

Bucket bags got their name from their distinctive shape. They usually have a long, crossbody strap and are fastened with a drawstring around the top. In addition to this, they may have a shorter harness.

Despite the fact that the bucket bag trend has stalled in recent years, this chunky, chic handbag option never fades away. Many designers experiment with their interpretations of the bucket bag, but it’s a timeless style that has always found a home in our closets.

The bucket bag is a larger bag that appears to have plenty of room for all your belongings. This makes it practical as well as trendy, whether you choose the durable leather or cute embroidered models. Bucket bags have been revised in buttery leathers and croc-embossed designs, making them bigger and better than ever.

Some women’s handbags to try out – bucket bags

  • AFKOMST Drawstring Bucket Bag – There are two detachable straps: one short strap for use as a shoulder drawstring purse, and also one flexible long strap for use as a crossbody bucket case.
  • Drawstring Bucket Bag – Seems to have enough room for all of your travel and everyday needs, including your wallet, glasses, cellphone, and other essentials.
  • Women Quilted Hobo Backpack Fashion Casual Bucket – Gorgeous quilted vegan leather is used to fashion a ladylike yet flexible look.

7. Crossbody Bag

Since they are hands-free and make life easier, crossbody bags have become the most versatile and commonly used handbag by women. You can just throw one around your body and forget about holding stuff with both hands. They transition you from day to night effortlessly, and most styles work in both formal and casual outfits. Due to the long strap built to be worn around the body, these bags gained their name on the fashion market. Some women wear this strap over their shoulder to add to the accessory’s high-fashion, thrown-together look.

You can use this as your go-to bag for a night out or a drinking session with your girlfriends. You can enjoy the concept of being hassle-free. And, since you don’t need your entire world at that time, it effectively meets the requirements. Most crossbags are just the right size to carry enough items without being too bulky, such as your lipstick, debit cards, hand sanitizer, comb, and lip balm. All you’ll need to look cute and have a stress-free night out on the town.

Some women’s handbags to try out – crossbody bags

  • Quilted Crossbody Bag – It’s styled after the latest multi pochette.  A big, comfortable shoulder or cross-body strap, as well as a comfortable golden chain for handbags.
  • Kate Spade New York Women’s Cameron Convertible Crossbody Bag – With a lot of space on the inside, it certainly dresses up every outfit.
  • Envelope Wristlet Clutch Crossbody Bag with Chain Strap – A dressy travel purse that isn’t too large but not too tiny

8. Bum Bag

A small bag attached to a belt is known as a bum bag in the United Kingdom, but in the United States it’s known as a fanny pack.   t’s used to keep small or valuable items secure. As a result, this is one of those must-have things when you go for festivals and sightseeing.

Since it is securely bound to your waist and in front of you, this form of bag eliminates the risk of being robbed. You may not be able to bring the whole world with you, but you will be able to bring along the necessities and reach them within seconds.

Originally intended to be worn around the waist or hips, it is now worn in a variety of ways, including slung over the shoulders, wearing across your chest and used as a raincoat belt. However, they come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can choose what you like.

Some women’s handbags to try out – bum bags

  • LIVACASA Fanny Pack Waist Bags for Women – This waist bag for women is shiny with neon PU leather that changes colors depending on where you are.
  • FREETOO Waist Pack Bag Fanny Pack for Men & Women – It’s well-made, with 5 different-sized zippered pockets for all your requirements.
  • BAOSHA YB-02 Waist Bag Sports Bum Bag for Women – It’s not huge, but it’s large enough to fit your phone, purse, sunglasses, and passport in, making it convenient and comfortable.
  • MAXTOP Fanny Pack for Men & Women – The headphone slot helps you to listen to music while exercising or walking, freeing up your hands to embrace your time.

Final Thoughts

The last thing someone wants to do at a party is ruin their appearance by wearing the wrong party shoes, and the same can be said for women’s handbags. While handbags are mainly functional, they can also be used as a fashion accessory to complete or add appeal to an ensemble. We know you ladies enjoy shopping for handbags and shoes year after year, as evidenced by the increase in the producer price of women’s handbag and purse manufacturing year after year. However, prioritize the necessities first, then go for the more expensive, branded, and show-off ones. And of course don’t be afraid to try out various options to see what works best for you in terms of your personality and the occasion. We hope this article has inspired you to add more must-have women’s handbags to your wardrobe. So, happy shopping!