The Clutch:

Category = Teeny Tiny!

Is it a mini purse or an extra-large wallet? Whichever you prefer, we’re glad these small bags are around to pair with evening apparel. Clutches are small, handheld bags that most women bring out in replacement of large shoulder bags. Only the essentials will fit in this accessory, so grab just your phone, keys, and money! Clutches can be both casual and super fancy, and celebrities love to sport them on the red carpet. These bags can serve as that extra “something” an outfit needs, or act as a wallet or makeup case if you change purses often.  We think every girl should own a few of these for her nights out on the town. Just be careful you hold on to it at all times and don’t lose track of your tiny purse! If you’re worried about leaving it somewhere, opt for a small evening bag or clutch/chain combo so you can keep that sucker close.

Classic Rhinestone Clutch

The Cross-Body/Messenger

Category = Medium/Large, and Durable!

Trend alert: these are in right now!  And they’re perfect for the girl who always has her hands full. Although self explanatory, the cross-body bag goes over one shoulder and hangs down at the opposite hip, offering a hands and arms-free approach to travel. But this is really the only defining characteristic, as these bags are very varied and can be slouchy, structured, small, or large. Messenger bags are usually larger and carried on your back, similar to a backpack. Cross-body bags are more comparable to purses and tend to be a little smaller than messengers. If you’re using your bag for books and binders, look for a wider strap to support the extra weight. If it’s functioning as an everyday purse, look for a thinner strap that won’t overwhelm you or take away from your outfit. Your current bag may have even come with an additional, removable shoulder strap, so you can instantly transform it into a cross-body piece.

Mackenzie Messenger Bag

The Satchel:

Category = Medium

These bags have become extremely popular in the past few years, as they are enduring, practical, and designers’ favorites! Because of their shape, satchels resemble small, stylish duffel bags. They are rectangular, usually have 2 shorter handles, and are meant to be held in your hand or in the crook of your elbow. (Some satchels can be worn over the shoulder, so check first) Both ends of the bag are usually rounded, so you can stuff a lot in without distorting the shape. This is the perfect choice for someone who needs to tote a lot around, but likes a more shallow and structured bag than the bucket shape. Our favorite thing about these bags is that they usually sport pockets, zippers, and other hardware on the outside. But because it’s normally held in your hand or arm, make sure you can function single-handedly!

Phoebe Fashionista Satchel

Do you ever get confused when stores filter by “type” of bag? With all the different kinds out there, it’s hard to remember if your favs are considered hobos or satchels – and what does that even mean, really? We’ve attempted to create a key (a “purses for dummies,” if you will) because it’s hard to keep track of these silly things.  We’ll post one bag clarification every day, so you don’t get overwhelmed with all this purse-definition nonsense! But we don’t claim to be Bachelorettes of Bags! Don’t be upset if your favorite stores label their bags according to their own rules. We think it’s a subjective matter.

Nonetheless, we hope you find this helpful!

The shopper/tote:

Category= Exxxxxtra Large

We decided to bulk shopper and tote together, but some stores may not. Totes are the absolute largest bags you can shop for before we send you to browse the luggage store. Oversized bags are extremely popular right now, but if you travel light and don’t want a bulging bag under your arm, wait for the next post! For those of you who love the idea of a huge bag, keep in mind you don’t need to stuff it to the brim. Totes are made big for the sake of style – not because we necessarily need the space. Look for bags that can go with several outfits. Because they are so big, totes comprise a larger chunk of your outfit. Consider this before you buy that “adorable bag that can’t go with anything.” Go for a tote that’s classy, simple, and durable. Women who carry totes are usually on the go, so chances are you’ll be throwing your laptop, lunch, and tennis shoes in this thing.

Patent Woven Tote