Every woman needs a one-of-kind purse for a specific purpose, perhaps all purpose, but the quest starts with the bags design. For every day, for shopp...
Every woman needs a one-of-kind purse for a specific purpose,
perhaps all purpose, but the quest starts with the bags design. For every day, for shopping, for evening or for carry-on, some can take the credit for multiple uses. Evening bags are a separate category, along with the wallet on a shoulder strap. Others could have dedicated usages for wine, diaper, potluck, laptop, fresh fruit market, and for the under 25, a messenger bag.
Tips for when first shopping: Check out a few details common to many bags. Is there quality lining and is the color acceptable? Dark linings sometimes disguise the contents. There are sometimes side slots in the inside. Will your hand fit? Can you see the other pockets and their zipper tabs, if any? What sort of handle, ""bling"" or buttons? Are there pockets on the outside. Is there a cell phone pocket?
Zippers are usually the early breakdown weakness. The most important top closure should have the sturdiest design. Numbers might be found on the tab. A ten would be stronger than a five, but main zippers are frequently a seven. Closures are not always important. An open top would be common on a casual shoulder sling. However, purses or totes that have a flap over, zipper or snap offer more protection from theft in crowded areas, don't spill.
Snaps are handy, sometimes more convenient than zippers. When the one arm is attached to a toddler and the other is looking for the car keys, snaps can open quickly. Three types are magnetic. One is embedded in the fabric not visible, the other is visible and out and applied with an industrial applicator.
Three types of magnets are used in the industry. One is not visible inside or out, these are sewn within the lining, and will sometimes cause the purse to almost close itself. The other two show are more look more traditional. A decorative exterior cap adds a touch of style on the one. The inside portion is visible. The third functions like the second but cannot be seen on outside. It's often the choice for smaller purses and used by artisans because it can be applied by an industry tool or by hand.
Purse handles are so important to function that this feature must suit the woman or be constantly frustrating. The long strap should hang straight to just below where the elbow bends so that the hand finds a natural position. Though thin straps have less bulk breakdown is a concern. Straps of fabric, particularly cotton and hemp, feel soft to touch but show wear sooner. Leather or vinyl handles can pull on skin or slide off the shoulder. Those casual rope type handles need to be well attached. Look for double seams or stitching.
Short handles offer a greater variety of materials. Metal and wood are less common but attractive materials. Along with the usual synthetic or leather versions, some styles include large beads or chains, woven or braided fabrics and rope. Except for less commonly used evening clutches, purses often take abuse. Over stuffed, tossed to the back seat, and rubbed with wear when held under the armpit.
Before heading for the checkout, visualize what items you would normally carry around. Is this the appropriate purchase? Perhaps you have half dozen or more bags for many uses, if so you've already chosen your preferred bags design.
