
Ladies
fashion bags are one of the most popular accessories present in the
market. 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, it is seen
that a fashionable woman would have multiple bags for different types of
occasions and outfits.
Fashion clothing
and Fashion bags go hand-in-hand.
Types of Fashion 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:
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. 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. Jewelled designs and
adornments became very popular and signified the class of the woman
carrying that bag. The 1950s saw the rise of important designer houses
like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes etc. Copy is the most sincere form of
flattery and hence nowadays there are many replica handbags flooding the
market, replicating the designs of the likes of Kate Spade, Gucci, Coach
and Dior. Nowadays, anything and everything that is "different"
is most sought after. Handbags are no exception to this rule.
Choose the Right Fashion Bag
At the end of the day, fashion
handbags are indeed an important investment. Available in varied styles,
they make you feel good. In addition, many of these handbags can
actually define you. With unique colors and styles, cuts, you are sure
to find a handbag suitable for you, for your outfit and for the
occasion.
The following characteristics should be kept in mind before choosing
the right handbag:
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.