As much as we love to indulge in the latest bag trends, following them blindly is a big fashion faux pas. You might not know this, but knowing your figure and finding the perfect bag shape that flatters it is crucial. From slim to curvy body shapes, we’ve prepared a guide for you to search for the perfect carry-on that best suits your silhouette. Once you get a handle on it, next comes the fun part — shopping for the right purse. Trust us, you’ll start receiving compliments in no time.
If You Have an Inverted Triangle Body Shape
What it is: Broader shoulders than hip and waist.
Pro tip: For girls with a broad set of shoulders, opt for bags that accentuate your waist and hips. Naturally, it’ll divert the attention away from your shoulders and to your waistline. We’d recommend crossbody bags that fall on your hips, or even belt bags. Make sure they are not oversized so that they don’t make the bottom half of your body look heavy.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/stylish-bags-body-types-fashion/
right bag for body type 1
Patent leather crossbody bag by Saint Laurent, S$2,840
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Make a statement with a bright and bold bag, like this vermilion red Saint Laurent crossbody piece.
Metallic leather crossbody bag by Fendi, S$1,850, via Brownsfashion
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Reminisce the Studio 54 days with this gold purse by Fendi. Go full on ’70s with a white Halston-inspired jumpsuit and gold platform heels.
Quilted leather belt bag by Gucci, £1,240 (S$2,198), via Net-a-Porter
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Bum bags are not just reserved for your mum anymore. Well, definitely not when it comes to this elegant piece from Gucci.
Grained leather belt bag by See by Chloé, US$250 (S$343), via Matchesfashion
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Belt bags are all the rage this season. Channel Wild, Wild West vibes by pairing this bag with a pair of bootcut denim jeans and a tartan shirt.
If You Have a Rectangle Body Shape
What it is: Shoulders, waist and hip are of the same size.
Pro tip: Since your figure is relatively oblong, it is best to avoid structured bags (like Celine’s Luggage totes) which will make your body appear too rigid. Choose wider bags that have a slouchy shape — it will add curves to your body. Hobo bags, oversized tote bags and soft leather clutches are your best bet.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/stylish-bags-body-types-fashion/
right bag for body type 2
Multi-coloured textile oversized tote bag by Christian Louboutin, US$1,885 (S$2,584), via Matchesfashion
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Add a touch of colour and quirky detail to your LBD by toting this oversized textile purse.
Weaved leather hobo shoulder bag by Bottega Veneta, S$4,815, via Mytheresa
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Go with something muted for the office. This grey coloured hobo bag is perfect for storing your daily necessities.
Wide loose leather lunch bag by Simon Miller, S$872, via Farfetch
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Play around with your accessories. Go with something unique that adds personality to your outfits, like this cerulean blue leather lunch bag.
Shearling and leather shopper tote by The Row, S$3,725, via Mytheresa
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Do your grocery shopping in style by swinging this plush shopper tote bag made from soft brown lamb shearling. Just make sure you keep those wet perishables in a separate sealed bag to prevent unwanted stains.
Read more on the next page.
If You Have a Pear Body Shape
What it is: Shoulders and waist are narrower than hip.
Pro tip: If you carry more weight on your hips and thighs, bags with shorter straps will suit you best as they will hang higher on your body to create a more balanced overall appearance. Avoid crossbody bags that hit your hips — they will make you look heavier waist down. For fans of belt bags, keep the strap short and sling it across your chest rather than strapping it to your waist.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/stylish-bags-body-types-fashion/
right bag for body type 3
Cotton shoulder bag with embroidery details by Kooreloo, US$440 (S$603), via Moda Operandi
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Embrace your feminine side with a bright pink shoulder bag. Dress this textured piece with a simple white cotton crochet dress for a brunch date.
Bucket leather bag by Givenchy, S$2,990
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Store all your day’s worth of belongings in this roomy bucket bag that comes in a cool red hue and a classy gold-finish chain.
Shoulder leather bag by Wandler, €735 (S$1,169), via Mytheresa
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Keep your office wear sophisticated by pairing this shoulder bag with an oversized white shirt and dark brown midi skirt.
Metallic nylon belt bag by Prada, US$623 (S$854), via Matchesfashion
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Add a touch of shine to your athleisure outfit with this silver nylon belt bag. It’s roomy enough to contain your wallet, phone and even wet wipes!
If You Have an Apple Body Shape
What it is: Shoulders and hip are narrower than waist.
Pro tip: Avoid splurging on fancy minaudieres (case bags) or Jacquemus’ micro-bags as these puny accessories will likely disappear against your figure. Choose wider and structured bags that are more apparent and have more depth. Think of Saint Laurent’s Sac de Jour or Givenchy’s GV3. Make sure to get them in medium-size, or larger for visual impact.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/stylish-bags-body-types-fashion/
right bag for body type 4
Graffiti printed leather top handle bag by Balenciaga, US$3,390 (S$4,644)
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Channel your inner rebel with this top handle bag that sports graffiti-styled slogan prints.
Leather tote bag by Mansur Gavriel, £475 (S$842), via Net-a-Porter
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Keep things classy and casual with a versatile, camel coloured tote bag.
Leather top handle bag with buckle detail by BOYY, £825 (S$1,461), via Net-a-Porter
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Navy blue and black is always a winning combination. Pair this navy blue purse with your black midi dress when heading to the office.
Basket top handle bag with floral embellishment details by Heimat Atlantica, US$439 (S$602), via Matchesfashion
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Hit the beach with a straw bag. Go for something that sports vibrant colours and embellishments for an interesting twist, like this piece from Heimat Atlantica.
If You Have an Hourglass Body Shape
What it is: Shoulders and hips are well balanced, while waist is narrow
Pro tip: This body shape allows you to work with bags in all shapes and sizes (#blessed). We suggest you go for classic bags for work days. You can explore your bolder side during the weekends with more adventurous seasonal pieces. Shop away.
https://www.femalemag.com.sg/fashion/stylish-bags-body-types-fashion/
right bag for body type 5
Logo embossed leather “T” pouch by Loewe, S$810, via Brownsfashion
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This classic Loewe pouch that features the maison’s logo embossed throughout the bag is great for everyday use. It’s easy to match and fuss-free.
Leather and suede shoulder bag by Chloé, S$2,630, via Farfetch
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Pair this stylish shoulder bag with a printed maxi dress for a brunch sesh with your girlfriends, or a sassy velvet kimono when you’re heading for a date night.
Small suede tote with ring handle by Little Liffner, £315 (S$558), via Net-a-Porter
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This forest green suede tote is a safe option if you’re thinking of carrying it for work. Despite being in a dark hue, it’ll stand out against a black pant-suit.
Lamb fur pouch bag by Marni, S$905, via Farfetch
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Add variety to your bag collection with this Marni clutch that sports bright orange and black lamb fur. Let it stand out by pairing it with a casual white t-shirt and denim jeans combination.