Ladies bags are one of the most popular accessories present in the markets. Ladies bags are used to store and hold personal items. Bags are usually made of leather, plastic, rexine, jute, fabrics, etc. Ladies bags are also called handbags and come in different shapes, designs and styles. Each outfit requires a matching handbag and thus, a woman would have multiple bags for different types of occasions and outfits.

Ladies handbag is chosen on the basis of personal style and choice. Styles of handbags depend on the kind of occasion, the individual's personality and the latest trends. Handbags have different designs, with a closable zipper, one/two handles, magnetized buttons and one/two inner compartments with multiple pockets.

Types of Bags
Bags vary from small ones, like purses to large ones that are used for shopping or traveling. The different types of ladies bags that are available are:

• Fashion Beach Bags
• Bridal Bags
• Ladies Clutch Bags
• Women's Handbags
• Women's Shoulder Bags
• Fashion Tote Bags
• Jute Bags

Historical Perspective
Bags were first mentioned in written literature in the 14th century. However, Egyptian hieroglyphs have depicted people carrying pouches tied around their waist. Bags were attached to "girdles" which were tied to the waist. The pouches were adorned with jewels and embroidery and the adornments symbolized status. The richer the person, more elaborate the bag.

In 16th century, handbags became practical and everyday materials like leather were used to manufacture them. The advent of 17th century brought about a variety of small bags with many complex shapes. In fact, young girls were taught embroidery as an essential skill to make them marriageable. Thus, beautifully stitched handbags with unique artwork were very common in this period.

In the 18th century, fashion wear took a turn and Neo-classical clothing became very popular. Wearing a purse became superficial and thus, ladies started carrying their handbags which were called reticules. Reticules were used to carry rouge, face powder, scent bottle, visiting cards, a card case, a fan and smelling salts.

In the early 1900's, the term "handbag" was used for the first time. However, this term referred to the hand held luggage bags that were carried by men. This period saw a rise in the designs of the bags. New bags for women were popularized that had internal compartments, fasteners and locks. Special compartments for opera glasses, cosmetics, fans, etc. were added to the handbags. Jewelled designs and adornments became very popular and signified the class of the woman carrying that bag.

In 1920's, fashion wear underwent a major change. Bags now did not match the outfits. Instead ladies carried a miniature doll dressed like them that had a miniature purse. In 1940's due to the World war, bags became simple and wood and plastic was used for the first time. 1950's saw the emergence of the famous fashion houses of Paris and thus, designer bags became the rage.

From 1960's onwards, the hand bags have been influenced and designed according to personal attire and choice. Nowadays, anything and everything that is "different" is most sought after. Handbags are no exception to this rule.

Choose the Right Bag
Handbags are a fashion accessory and are not worn on the body itself. However, it is essential for a woman to buy the right bag that suits her personality and body. A handbag changes the overall look of an individual and it should be kept in mind before buying just about any bag.

The following characteristics should be kept in mind before choosing the right handbag:

• Shape of the handbag
• Scale of the handbag
• Individual's body shape

Shape of the Handbag
While choosing the handbag, its shape is the most important characteristic that should be considered. Ideally, the shape of the handbag should be opposite to the individual's body shape.

A slim and tall woman should choose a rounded and slouchy bag. A short and heavier woman should choose a tall and rectangular or long and sleek bag. Large rectangular or square handbags in soft leathers and fabrics would compliment a short and heavy woman.

Scale of the Handbag
The scale of the handbag should always be in proportion to the buyer's shape and figure. In recent years, small bags with small straps have become popular. Yet, women should buy bags that are in accordance with their size. e.g; A tall woman with a tiny hand held bag would look very odd.

The following criteria should be followed while buying the correct sized bag:

• A slim woman would look good with a close fitting bag.
  
  
• A shoulder bag should be bought only after trying it on. If it feels cramped under the arm, it is not right for the buyer.
  
  
• The length of the shoulder bag highlights the body part it comes near. e.g; A shoulder bag that ends around the hips, plays up the wearer's hips(eyes are drawn to the bag).
  
  
• Ideally, a shoulder bag that ends at mid torso is the best buy because it flatters a woman's waist.
  
  
• A small petite woman should always buy a small close fitting bag.

Individual's Body Shape
The individual buyer's body shape also should be taken into consideration. Following criteria should be followed:

• For women with large hips, the ideal bags are:
  • A short strap close fitting bag.
  • Shoulder bags or hobo bags that are a bit long yet end above the hips. This does not draw attention to the large hips.
• For women who have a curvy figure, the ideal bags are:
  • A shoulder bag that ends above the waist.
  • Too big or Too small bags need to be avoided.
• For women who are a plus size(tall and well built):
  • Very small bags need to be avoided as they would look lost against the woman's figure and emphasize her size.
  • Proportionately sized bags with short to medium length straps are ideal.

Buying Tips
A few salient criteria that need to be followed when women buy a handbag:

• A woman should try out the handbag in front of the mirror. She should buy it only if it suits her shape and size.
  
  
• Style and not ashion should be followed.
  
  
• Lifestyle should be taken into consideration before buying a bag. e.g; A trendy artistic bag would be unsuitable for carrying kid paraphernalia like nappies, etc.