Handbags Glossary

Barrel: A handbag shaped like a long cylinder that resembles a barrel.

Belt bag: A purse that you hang around your waist like a belt. In some cases the bag is detachable from the belt.

Clutch: A handbag without straps or handles that must be held or "clutched" in your hand. Clutches can be used as small evening bags. Clutches were popularized during the 1950's.

Duffel: This is a large bag made of cloth that is typically used to carry sports equipment or used as casual luggage carriers.

East/West: Describes a bag that is longer than it is tall. See also: North/South.

Evening Bag: This is a bag that you carry during evening events where you dress in formal attire and you want a bag that is slim, elegant, and light weight.

Frame: These are handbags with strong, inflexible structures. Frame handbags were popular during the 1950's.

Hobo: Hobos are usually shoulder bags that have a bulging look on the bottom, like a "hobo's" bag tied at the top to a pole-like stick which is supported in one hand and laid on your shoulder. Hobos were popularized during the 1960's.

Messenger Bag: Unisex shoulder bag designed to be worn across the shoulders. Messenger bags are usually made of cloth. They were originally designed to be functional like a backpack, but now are considered a fashion accessory. Messenger bags are named after bags originally used by message couriers and postal workers.

Minaudiere: An evening clutch purse with a hard case. Minaudieres are usually covered in Swarovski crystals. See also: clutch and evening bags.

Muff: A handbag designed to keep your hands warm. Muffs are usually cylinder in shape and covered in some type of fur or fur-like material. See also: cylinder.

North/South: A bag that is taller than it is wide. See also: east/west.

Satchel: A bag with a wide, flat bottom, a top that is zippered or clasped, and two handles or straps for carrying. The satchel was inspired by the shape and utility of luggage and can be found in a variety of sizes.

Shopper: Bags designed for shopping to carry many larger items. Shoppers are usually rectangular in shape.

Shoulder Bag: Designed to be worn by the long handles hanging from your shoulders.

Top Handle: A handle that is attached by hinges to the top of the bag. Top handles are often associated with frame bags.

Top Zip: Bags which have a zipper at the top of their main opening. Also commonly referred to as Zip-Top bags.

Tote: These bags are designed to be a carryall. Totes have shoulder straps and a wide top opening. They are usually sturdy and rectangular. Totes are similar to shoppers.

Wristlet: A clutch with a bracelet-like strap so that the bag can be carried hanging from your wrist. See also: clutch.

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