There
are some things in life that you can never get enough of. And for many, bags
make them go weak in the knees. We often find ourselves lusting after bejeweled
Minaudières, graphic totes, fold-over clutches... the list is endless. If you
have a shelf in your cupboard dedicated lovingly to your
favourite fashion accessory, be sure you can differentiate one from another. Be
a fashion maverick, crack the simple design code and flaunt your bag knowledge.
Follow our A to Z guide so you know what to
couple with your ethnic wear or how to switch from your workplace to a cozy
bar, without switching your handbag.
Though there’s more to bag lingo, this is good enough to start with.
Though there’s more to bag lingo, this is good enough to start with.
Athletic: Also known as gym bags, they are super sturdy
and spacious. Duffles are the more stylized versions
Bowler: or bowling bags have a wide bottom, perfect
for work
Clutch: Compact and classy. Box clutches are a
current hit
Drawstring: As the name suggests, they close with the
drawing of two strings. Fit for casual outings
Envelope Clutch: Takes its shape from the name. Go for neons,
over-sized and colour blocked ones
Fold-Over Clutch: Has a buttoned or zipped enclosure. Go for
versions in pastels or encrusted with rhinestones
Glazed Leather: The hot chocolate-like sheen makes glazed
leather super fashionable
Hobo: The high-style version of the desi jhola.
Perfect for college or a casual date night
iPurse: Inspired by the rise of the tablet, these are
a stylish way to hop directly from workplace to a party destination
Jackie O: It’s inspired by the late first lady of US,
Jacqueline Kennedy and her impeccable style
Kelly: A fashionable ode to Hollywood beauty Grace
Kelly
Laptop: You can redefine sexy by adding oomph to your
gadget wear
Minaudière: Traditionally, cosmetic bags. Go bejeweled for
sophisticated evenings
Newsboy: Work-friendly and great for travel, it’s the
best pick for fashionable men
Ojibwa: Originally, Native American artwork. Go for inspired beaded versions
Ojibwa: Originally, Native American artwork. Go for inspired beaded versions
Potli: Hot on trend, the compact drawstring bags work
well with ethnic wear
Quilted: The diamond patterns and quilt look add
instant glamour and class
Regulator: Another sports bag, fit for carrying tools and
equipment
Saddle: The travel/ riding bag can double up as a
stylish, compact accessory during trips
Tote: From classroom fashion to a formal night out,
the wide-mouth bag is fit for multi-use
Ukranian Bagpiper: Traditionally made to go with the instrument,
the shape now inspires stylized handbags. Pick in tartan prints
Vinyl: The plastic-look popularity makes these a
handy, cool option
Wristlets: Another gadget-friendly bag. Cover your phone,
add handy makeup and you have high style on your wrists
X-Ray Bags: Available across social networks, the ‘prank’
scan print is super fun
Yoruba Diviner’s Bag: The African ‘medicine’ bag is an inspiration
for designers across the globe
Zippers: Mostly used to keep stationary, you can also
use them as smart pouches
