How to choose a handbag you'll Actually Love

I recently got a request from a friend and blog reader to blog about choosing handbags. Honestly, I hadn’t given it a ton of thought before, but once I did, I realized it’s something we all need to get right. Because let’s face it—there’s nothing worse than carrying around a handbag you just can’t stand.

Now, let me start by saying I’m not exactly a “purse girl.” I’m way more into shoes. I carry a handbag, of course, but I don’t have a closet full of them I use on constant rotation.

Honestly, I have a tough time committing to a new bag. The ones I really like are usually way out of my comfort zone (and budget), and I just don’t go for the ones that feel cheap. But I’m working on it!

So, here are some of my favorite tips for choosing a handbag that won’t make you want to toss it after a week.

1. What Size Do You Need?

First things first—what size bag do you need? Think about what you carry in your bag every day.

 If you’re constantly lugging around half your house, you’re going to need something pretty big.

But a good thing to remember... it’s not just about fitting your stuff; it’s about fitting it easily.

Pro tip: When you’re handbag shopping, take the stuffing out and actually try your things in the bag. Make sure they fit. 

And then make sure there's a little additional room. There’s nothing worse than playing Tetris with your wallet and sunglasses, only to have no room left for your keys.

I speak from experience. I bought a bag for a recent trip and didn't want to carry something too large and heavy. I was pleased to find a smallish bag that held what I needed. 

It worked beautifully on the trip where we were on foot or Ubering the whole time...when I got home and had to get my huge key fob and a couple of other small daily items to fit, it was another story. Lesson learned! 

2. What Materials Do You Prefer?

When you choose a handbag, think about durability and style.

 Personally, I love leather because it holds up well and works for my personal style.

 If you’re vegan or prefer something else, there are plenty of great vinyl options—just analyze the quality and make sure they don’t look like vinyl.

And if you’re a fan of natural fibers, straw bags are super cute for summer. But be careful—cheap or rough straw can snag your clothes. Invest in something smooth and high quality if you’re going that route.

3. Color: I.E. Do You Switch Bags Often?

How often do you like to switch your bag?

 If you don't like changing your bag out often, I've found a good solution to continually switching between a black or brown bag...burgundy! It's neutral enough to go with almost anything and it's a beautiful look for fall/winter season!

But if you’re into changing your bag like you change your shoes, have fun with color. Coordinating your handbag to your outfit adds both polish a little pop to your outfit.

4. Comfort

What’s even more important than how a bag looks? How it feels.

Seriously, when you choose a handbag, you’ve got to think about comfort. Some handbags can get heavy. I mean, some of them feel like they weigh a ton before you even put anything inside!

Along with weight, think about what kind of straps feel comfortable for you—shoulder bags, crossbody, or top handle bag?  I find carrying my top handle bag in the crook of my arm to be comfortable

Next, consider the bag’s structure.

Especially if you're sensitive, determine whether a structured, hard leather bag is comfortable or whether a soft leather hobo feels better to you.

5. Pockets!

The inside of a handbag can make you feel calm and organized or it can be the bane of your existence!

 Do you love lots of pockets to keep everything in its place, or do too many compartments annoy you?

Personally, I need at least one pocket for my phone, but beyond that, too much organization starts to frustrate me. (I can't remember what goes in what pocket, LOL!) 

Figure out what works best for you when you choose a handbag because there’s no one-size-fits-all here.

6. Scale

When you choose a handbag, make sure it suits your body scale.

 If you’re petite, carrying an oversized tote can overwhelm your frame. 

On the flip side, if you’re tall, a tiny bag can look a little out of proportion. So, think about your own proportions when choosing your next bag—it’ll make a bigger difference than you think.

7. Where the Bag Hits Your Body

 Consider where it hits on your body. If you want to highlight your waist, a crossbody that lands at your waist can be super flattering.

Or, if you want to balance out your upper body, a hip-hitting bag can do the trick. Conversely, if you're bigger on the bottom than the top, you'll want your bag to hit above your hip.

That said, don’t overthink this one. The most important thing is that you love your bag and it fits into your life. Flattery is great, but comfort and happiness are what really matter.

8. Closure

The last thing to think about is when you're choosing a handbag is what type of closure you like. 

There are actually 11 different types of closures, but I think the biggest consideration is whether you like zippers, snaps or a flap that folds over the top (my favorite 😜) 

Final Thoughts

Choosing a handbag isn’t just about looks—it’s about finding something that makes your life easier and feels right for you.

Keep these tips in mind, and I promise you’ll end up with a bag that you won’t want to throw in the back of your closet.