A purse works on two levels—first, as an incredibly practical accessory, and second, as an expression of its user’s stylistic choices and, by extension, their personality. A well-chosen purse can complement any outfit, elevate the overall look, and help one carry essentials like phones, books, and keys. With many types of purses to consider, choosing the right option can require one to carefully consider available options, suitable materials, and other factors.
Popular types of purses for women
Coin purse
These purses are designed to store loose change, credit cards, travel tickets, SIM cards, pocket diaries, and other small objects. Coin purses are typically tiny and strap-free. They are equipped with a metal locking mechanism or a zipper. Accessing objects placed within these purses is pretty easy owing to the compact size and easy closures.
Clutch
For formal occasions such as weddings and business meetings, a clutch is an appropriate choice of purse. Clutches fit easily in the hand but offer more storage space than coin purses. Despite their elegant design, clutches are suitable for everyday use.
Crochet purse
These purses are popular because of their designs rather than utility. Made with yarn to create a beautiful handwoven design and pattern, the purses are ideal for holding big, solid items like books, bottles, and wallets. Tiny, sharp objects like earrings shouldn’t be placed in these bags. They often make for great gifts, owing to the effort that goes into making them. Their intricate design patterns, skilled craftsmanship, and overall quality set them apart from other purses.
Sling bag
Highly preferred by women, sling bags typically come with uncomplicated designs. They are also incredibly easy to carry; they can be worn over the shoulder, either straight or diagonally across the body. Besides freeing up the hands and adding some flair, sling bags also offer decent storage space for small belongings, like toiletries, sunglasses, phones, laptops, and credit cards.
Common purse materials
Purses can differ in durability and overall functionality based on their material.
Leather
This is arguably the most durable, elegant, and resistant material used to make purses. Leather is processed in a host of colors. Usually, leather purses do not require much flair or decor as the material in itself is glossy and sophisticated, offering a premium feel.
Mesh
This is a woven or patterned knitted material that contains equidistant holes. Mesh purses are made from a variety of fabrics, such as nylon, cotton, and interlocking chainmail. Mesh purses are popular among buyers for their unique, organic style and texture.
Cotton
Purses and handbags made using cotton are incredibly eco-friendly and comfortable to carry. The material is also easy to use and clean. Cotton bags can be paired with casual, breezy outfits, say for a brunch date. These bags tend to last long due to the high durability of the material.
Straw
The purses made from this material exhibit clean, precise lines and use a chunky knitting style. The unique look of the material makes straw purses appropriate for vacations and picnics. These bags are made of natural materials like bamboo, wheat straw, bulrush, corn husk, willow grass, or several other similar materials.
Factors to consider while buying purses for women
When buying purses for women, it is important to find options that strike the right balance between style and utility. To do that, one should carefully assess a few key features.
Size and storage space
Women must choose purses that offer the maximum practicality for daily use. For this reason, the size of a purse matters. Ideally, an all-purpose purse will eliminate the need to carry other bags for additional storage. So, if storage is a priority, women can select large handbags or duffel bags.
Additionally, storage volume is not the only factor one should consider. Purses should also have multiple storage compartments and pockets to help users keep their belongings as organized as possible.
Material and quality
Purses need to last as long as possible. For this reason, the material of a purse matters just as much as its size. Certain materials, like leather and cotton, promise longevity. On the other hand, other materials, such as straw and mesh, look spectacular but may not be as practical when it comes to everyday use.
Type of closures
Purses may have a single zipper or multiple closures. All closures must help contain the items in the purse and close completely without any hassle. They should also be sturdy enough to not fall off with everyday use.
Comfort
Women tend to carry and use their purses for hours when they are out and about. This makes it necessary for purses to be comfortable to carry and wear. For instance, the strap material for a sling bag must be soft and non-slippery.
Maintenance tips
Like any other object, purses, too, undergo wear and tear over time. To ensure the purse looks good and maintains its functionality over time, one must take a few measures.
- Stuff the purse to help it retain its original shape.
- Wipe the purse regularly to get rid of stains and dirt.
- Store the purse on a dry, clean shelf or in the cupboard to keep it clean and its closures rust-free.
