Did you know – you can take your look from drab to fab with just one accessory – a handbag. They do more than just help you carry your essentials around. That’s the reason why your outfit is incomplete without them. In a sea of handbags available today, there’s one for every outfit. To help you make the right choice, we’re here to introduce you to all kinds of bags out there.
Here are the 9 must-have, Style Files-approved handbags you need to add to your cart right now!
Shoulder Bag
Shoulder bags were all the rage in the ‘70s. It is a timeless classic that goes with almost everything and looks chic. You can rely on this bag and carry it to run errands or head to a party with it. Team up this bag with wide-leg jeans and a halter-neck top for a chilled-out look or a tailored suit for a more professional appearance. Pick subtle colours for a casual get-up and bold hues for a vibrant vibe.
Try:
Crossbody Bag
For days you want to keep your essentials close while keeping your hands free, a crossbody bag is the best option. Wear it diagonally across your body with practically anything – a summer dress, a tank top and jeans, or even a formal suit. Add some chunky sneakers matching the bag to complete the fit. For a night out, style an embellished crossbody bag with your favourite black dress and tie-up heels. Take inspo from the iconic desi girl Priyanka Chopra.
Try:
Tote Bag
A tote bag is the best combination of functionality and style. It is the workhorse of handbags, ideal for carrying your laptop, books, and everyday essentials. Pair it with a fitted blazer, wide-leg jeans, and boots for a business casual look. To add a tad bit more sophistication to your outfit, opt for leather or canvas bags. You can also try bright colours and cool typography printed tote bags to up your casual wear game.
Try:
Clutch
Clutches are the ultimate choice for the festive season and weddings. There are so many options in the kind of embellishments, fabrics, and sequins that you have a lot to choose from for every outfit and occasion. You can also pick this if you want to keep things minimal. These bags are compact and fit just the things you need for the event. Pair it up with a cocktail dress, high heels, and statement-making jewellery. Tip: Metallic clutches add a touch of glam to your fit.
Try:
Belt Bag
Call it a fanny pack or a belt bag, essentially, it is a compact but spacious enough bag that you can tie around your waist. It comes in a buckle and a regular belt option. Another way to wear it is to sling it across the chest. Channel your inner athlete by pairing it with a sports bra and leggings, or with baggy joggers and a sweatshirt. Go for embellished metal chain belt bags to wear with your ethnic fit. Lastly, for a casual look, throw on a crop top over high-waisted pants and elevate it with a leather bag. Take a cue from Sara Ali Khan, who adorns a stunning blue leather belt bag to complement her denim maxi skirt.
Try:
Beach Bag
With the mermaid-core aesthetic taking over, mesh fabrics are everywhere. Bags have adapted this too! Beach bags are often made of straw or canvas and are super spacious – perfect for carrying towels, sunscreen, and all your beach day-out essentials. Carry this bag with a colourful swimsuit, a wide-brimmed hat, and some oversized sunglasses. Let’s get inspired by Kiara Advani who has carried a cane mesh bag to go with her garden-girl aesthetic.
Try:
Satchel Bag
Satchel bags have long straps usually worn across the body. They offer ample space to carry your books and laptop making it a great option for work. For a structured and sophisticated look, wear a tailored blazer, wide-leg trousers, and loafers. Pick the classic black for a timeless appeal or go for earthy tones if you’re in the mood to experiment.
Try:
Bucket Bag
Characterised by their unique shape and drawstring or buckle closure, bucket bags are great for a casual, bohemian look. Team this stunner with a flowy maxi dress (maybe tiered) and strappy sandals. Accessorise with layered necklaces adorned with shells or tassels to add to the boho vibe. Suede materials and earthy tones will complement this style perfectly.
Try:
Drawstring Bag
You must’ve seen drawstring bags in the avatar of a potli for ethnic wear, yes you’ve got it right. Drawstring bags are the perfect accessory to add to your ethnic outfits. They come in myriad options – from opulent pearl studded bags to regal jewel tones, there is one for every mood. You can go for unique options too such as structured pieces or solid shapes.
Try:
Along with being functional, handbags are style statements that can elevate any outfit. Follow these styling tips and select the correct type of handbag to enhance your fashion game. Let your handbag be an extension of your personality and fashion sensibilities.