Handbags can flatter your shape as much as the right jacket or pants. Think of these tips the next time you shop for a handbag and you’ll get great shape and style with each outfit.

You’ve heard me say it before and I say it again. It’s all about proportion. Think Shape and Scale.

1.  Shapes

Choose a shape that is the opposite of your body type.

Tall and thin: Choose one that is slouchy or rounded to compliment your figure.
Short and voluptuous: Select on that is tall or rectangular or long and sleek (think clutch)

Generally, the rounder your figure, the more structure you should have in your bag . . .

Bag Definitions:

• Tote – An open-top bag with straps or handles.
• Hobo bag – A crescent-shaped shoulder bag.
• Duffel – Tall shoulder bag, often with a wider opening on top.
• Field bag – A flap-top shoulder bag with utility-type closure (buckles, snaps, etc).
• Clutch – Small, handheld bag or a larger, geometric shape that is tucked under the arm.
• Satchel - A large, handheld bag.
• Baguette – Long and rounded shoulder bag resembling the namesake bread.
• Messenger – A large, soft shoulder bag with long straps (often worn across the body).
• Cigar Box – A small, boxy, hard bag.
• Pouch – A soft, small bag.
• Kelly bag – A classic Hermes style named after Grace Kelly; a large, structured handbag with distinctive hardware closures.

2.  Scale

Size should be in proportion to your figure. So if you are small is size and scale select a bag that is in scale with your body. DO not choose a bag that overpowers your body.

A shoulder bag’s length (where the bottom of the bag hits your body) will accentuate whatever part of the body it comes near. So if you are ‘blessed’ with “saddle bags” do not have your shoulder bag end at the largest part of your hips. The eye will be drawn to this point and accentuate your hips.

*Most women look great with a bag that hits mid-torso because it flatters the waist.

3.  Tips

Select your handbag wisely. Take your time and look at yourself in the mirror.  Just because it is a trendy shape, it may not work for you. Does it match your lifestyle?

Posted by Karen Hughes on January 6th, 2008 in Accessories, Handbags, How To