Totebags and perfection

Handbags and shoes are like a horse and a carriage; to have the one without the other is unthinkable. In fact, they can make or break an outfit, that is how essential they are to a lady’s wardrobe.
While most people know the names of different shoe types - things like slingbacks, pumps, stilettos - not everyone knows the names of all the different bag types. If you tell your female colleague that you just bought yourself a gorgeous baguette for your date on Friday, she might well just give you a blank stare.

I've rounded up six of the most popular bag styles. Each one suits a different outfit type, so if your wardrobe is missing a few of them, this can help you when you next hit the shops.

• The Tote

An open top bag that often has soft straps or handles, this is the perfect shopping or beach bag. They also encourage green living as they eliminate the need for plastic bags when buying small items. For a day at the beach, they can easily carry a magazine, a sarong, flip flops, bottled water, energy bars, sunscreen and sometimes even a small towel.

• The Hobo bag 

This soft, slouchy semi-circular bag has one shoulder strap. A hobo bag is casual bag that helps you look stylish without really trying. They pair nicely with breezy gypsy skirts, linen pants, vests and sandals. Think of a picnic or a jazz concert in the park and your hobo bag will be your perfect handbag of choice. 

• The Clutch

A clutch is a small handheld bag that is tucked under the arm or carried by hand. No little black dress can ever look sleek, elegant, polished and complete without a clutch. No A-list celebrity ever hits the red carpet without the most gorgeous sought after clutch bags to accessorise their haute couture gowns. While day time glam calls for a clutch with minimum embellishments, opt for a bejewelled one for a dazzling night look.             

• The Satchel  

Also know as a 'postman bag', a satchel is a great bag to take along to the office. If you find one in leather or patent leather, it can look very professional and smart. 

• The Baguette

This medium-size bag resembles the namesake bread loaf. It has short thin straps so that it can be worn over your shoulder and sit just under your armpit. A pretty baguette bag adds oomph to a flirty feminine top and fitted classic jeans ensemble. This is an effortless sexy date look.

• The Kelly-style bag

 
This bag is a classic structured style that was originally created by Hermes for movie star princess Grace Kelly. It oozes sophistication and timeless style in its beautiful uncluttered design and looks fantastic with a suit. Like the satchel, it's a great bag for the office.
While there are loads of hangbag styles to choose from, having these particular styles in your wardrobe will help carry you from beach picnics to the boardroom without missing a beat.