Ultimate bag guide. I’ve always loved a good bag. It can change an outfit and will store all or some of your personal belongings. In my bag you’ll usually find a notebook, my pen roll, my wallet and my favourite lipstick. Not only do I get to carry around my favourite things but I get to do it in style!

ULTIMATE BAG GUIDE

4 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A BAG

QUALITY

• I don’t care if you are buying a leather bag or a fabric bag or if you are buying a high end or a department store brand, if the quality isn’t there then put it back on the shelf.
• A low quality bag will only look good once or twice and after that it just won’t age well.
• Always check the stitching on a bag as it’s one of the ways to tell if the quality of the piece is good. Take a look at the strap on your bag. If there’s stitching around the edges then that purse can be fixed if any threads come undone.
• If there is no stitching (and it’s a leather handle) then it’s most likely glued together and reinforced with heavy cardboard. Don’t be afraid to gently pull on the stitching and check the lining carefully.

YOUR BODY TYPE

• It all comes down to proportions.
• If you are larger in stature then opt for bolder pieces that have eye catching hardware or even a great print. Don’t be afraid to show off that bag.
• For more petite ladies, streamlined styles will probably be more flattering and won’t swallow you up.
• There are so many different sizes of each style out there that it’s really best to just try them on. You don’t want to eclipse or be eclipsed by your bag.

YOUR LIFESTYLE

• Consider how and where you are going to use it.
• If you find that you are on the go a lot and often have to carry a lot of items then look for a bag with multiple straps that can be worn in different ways.
• My favourite styles are those which can be worn over one shoulder or as a cross body. Alternatively, a top handled satchel is very feminine and can easily transition from day to night.

BAG STYLE

• Having just one bag is not really enough. When you are in the market for a new bag, look for a style you don’t already own. If all you have are black bags then maybe another neutral like a grey or a camel will do, or even a bag with an interesting texture.
• Don’t forget to pay attention to the hardware.
• Stay away from big, bold logos. You want people to notice your amazing style and not who you are wearing, not to mention a bag should be something that stands the test of time and when it has prominent logos displayed all over it, it’s no longer a classic.

Check out Robyn from LePrix Clothing to see a variety of bags that all complete her outfit while changing it up!

WHAT YOUR BAG SAYS ABOUT YOU

Structured work bag/satchel. You are a high achiever whose career means just as much to you as your family does. You love for everything to be in its place and never fumble for your keys. High powered and classic elegance are two words that describe you best.

Bucket bag. You are the Queen of your local vintage markets and are on a first name basis with the local vendors. They save special treasures for you because they know you will appreciate them. You can spot a hidden gem from a mile away and that’s obvious to anyone who is lucky enough to be invited into your home. Drawn to retro style, you love to emulate a classic French girl carrying a baguette and fresh flowers.

Slouchy /hobo. While you might have a 9-5 job you love, there is a free spirit lurking just below the surface that’s waiting to be set loose. The weekends were created to soak up the sun, let down your hair and to enjoy family and friends or let your hair down at a great conference. You have never said no to fringe and secretly wish you could wear wild flowers in your hair everyday.

Streamlined crossbody. You are a woman who knows where she is going and are determined to do so in comfort and style without allowing yourself to be sidelined by life. You are the friend who always has hand cream and extra band-aids on hand and can jump out for an intimate girls only chat at the last minute.

Messenger/back pack.The perpetual student, you love some adventure and are always up for trying something new. You’ll never say no to a weekend getaway and love hanging out with friends. You have many creative interests and try to dip your toes into as many as possible. Always ready for something new, you (not so) secretly carry your passport with you wherever you go.

Tote. A confident woman who is always on the run, you like to have your whole life with you at an arm’s reach. You are prepared for anything and everything the day throws at you and you will always come out on top and in style.

Clutch. Sophisticated and chic, you crave minimalism and just the basics because you are confident that you can always pick up anything else you might need. Red carpets, sparkling lights and nights on roof top patios are what you live for.

Bowling or doctor’s bag. Lists are your life, you love them and live by them. Organization is key to a great day, but so is high style and of that you have plenty. You are a city girl through and through. Although you might wear flats for comfort or convenience, you wish that the only shoe you need is a stiletto.

7 BAGS EVERY WOMAN SHOULD OWN

Structured work bag/tote. The size and shape will vary according to your job and needs. This will be your everyday work bag. Take note of what you need to carry around and make sure that it is large enough for all of your files, papers and a laptop. If you are going for a minimalist wardrobe then stick with classic, neutral colours.

Cross body. This is a bag for the woman on the go because, well let’s be honest, a good cross body is the most comfortable bag you’ll wear. Perfect for a busy day of running errands or sightseeing, all your stuff is accessible, as a bonus you can easily hold a cup of coffee in one hand while carrying shopping bags in the other.

Weekend bag. Larger than your work bag, the weekender is perfect for last minute weekends away while doubling as a carry-on for the plane or work bag if you need more carry-space on any given day. When choosing your perfect bag, make sure that it is durable but not too heavy, since you’ll be lugging around your life.

Hobo or bucket bag or bowling bag. Perfect for when you need a fun, casual bag that is the perfect representation of your unique personality. I love ones that show off a tassel or have a hint of a retro feel. Not too big, since you won’t be carrying your life, look for a bag that you really love.

Clutch. Since a clutch isn’t very practical for day, opt for the evening variety and look for glamour. This bag should stand out against your LBD and exude sophistication and luxury.

Baguette. I believe that every woman should own a classic, lady-like baguette bag because there are moments in life when no other bag will do. Perhaps you are going to apply for your first bank loan or maybe you’ll be attending a business evening event, but your day bag is too big and you don’t want to hold a clutch.

Gym bag. Every gym going girl needs a dedicated, easily washable, gym bag with lots of pockets. I have a second set of grooming products that I permanently keep in my gym bag and they need their own dedicated space. Plus, when you have a great gym bag that you can just grab and go, you’re more likely to make it to your workout.

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