Handbag Key Terms

Get a handle on what you carry with some handbag key terms

In America, handbags rank almost as high as shoes on the list of shopping craves. A handbag is another name for a purse. Basically, it is a bag to put personal items in that a person needs to have on hand. Handbags come in all shapes, sizes and materials. People are probably familiar with the clutch, messenger, satchel and tote. However, browsing handbag key terms will introduce you to lesser- known handbag vocabulary.

 

Birkin

The Birkin is a custom, handmade, highly touted bag made of animal skins and fine material. It carries a sophisticated air.
Try: Handbagzzz will introduce you to the Birkin.

Bucket, sac seau

The bucket bag, or sac seau, has a stiff, wide base and tall sides, fashioned after a bucket. This type of bag is a good carryall.
Try: Bink has a brief description of the bucket handbag. It can be found at the bottom of the page, alphabetized under Sac Seau. To see an image of a bucket bag, go to PersonalTotes.com.

Hobo

The hobo bag is either crescent- or bundle-shaped and has shoulder straps that attach to the bag on the sides, not at the ends like a tote.
Try: Visit Indianchild.com for more details on what a hobo bag is. Recognize what a hobo is by viewing images online along with a further description from the glossary at Kristopher Dukes. Scroll down the page to the Hs for this listing.

Pompadour

The pompadour is a small, pouch-like bag. The strap consists of a long cord and also serves as the closure for the handbag.
Try: Magic Handbags provides more information on the pompadour, including its history and typical uses. Visit La Couturière Parisienne for recommended situations in which to use the pompadour.

Reticule

The reticule is the mother of modern handbags. It was birthed from necessity and convenience as an alternative way to carry personal items that used to be carried in dress pockets.
Try: Find out more details on the reticule and see images at Fashion-Era.com.Those with further interest can read Fabrics.net.

Wristlet

The wristlet is a versatile handbag if the intention is for small toting. It can be carried both by the wrist strap or without the strap as a clutch.
Try: For pictures and information on the wristlet, visit designer Holland Cox's website. Vast Network offers more details on this handbag.

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