Select a Purse

Selecting the right purse is an important part of looking stylish and attractive. Your purse says a lot about you. There are many things to consider when you are ready to purchase a new purse.

Steps

  1. Select the occasion. Is the purse an everyday work purse, or an evening bag used once or twice? Work styles are functional, practical and stylish. Casual styles are natural-looking basket-weaves, florals, patterns and designs. Evening purses are elegant, shiny, metallic and flashy.
  2. Set a budget. Stick to a set price range. Look for a sale or clearance if you have a limited budget.
  3. Decide on a color. Classic neutrals like black, beige, navy or even red are good office choices. If you are going out at night, choose a color, shape or pattern that attracts more attention. Bright colors and pinks are good for spring and summer, parties or the beach.
  4. Choose the size you need. Is it a purse or a tote? How much space will you have to store it at work? What do you want to keep in it? Sometimes, a smaller purse is better. It will hold your essentials without bogging you down with unneeded stuff.
  5. Consider alternative materials. You don't need to go with traditional leather. Look at bags made of fabric or natural fibers. Consider a washable purse, too.
  6. Decide how long you will use the purse. If it is just for one season, you may want to opt for the inexpensive but trendy route found at accessories departments of budget chains or variety stores. If you want to keep it for a year or more, go to a department store and look for something sturdy and stylish from a reputable brand. Keep your budget in mind when you decide this.
  7. Consult a friend or salesperson. Ask someone if you aren't sure what will best meet your needs. If you want further inspiration, look at style magazines or online.

Tips

  • Check the inside of a purse. Is there enough room, sections for things you want to put in it?
  • Don't throw out your old purse if you might want to switch. It's always nice to have options.
  • Clean the accumulated clutter out of your bag every few weeks.
  • Check zips and buttons on the bag, check the durability of the material and the price.
  • Before spending a lot of money on a bag, do the research so you can make a more informed decision.
  • Try local thrift stores for good quality, name brand bags. Last year's classic purse may be donated, and you can get a really good deal and be in style.
  • Check the Internet for sales.
  • Always keep it safe in a locker or in your sight, or better yet, on your person.
  • Try to pick a timeless style of purse so you won't have to buy another one again when that purse is out of style.

Warnings

  • Designer fakes may look like an original designer piece, they will likely fall apart.
  • Remember, you get what you pay for. If you pay a cheap price, you'll likely get a cheap bag. I've cut apart box-store brands that have ended up in thrift stores, and have found that cardboard has been used to provide shape. The trouble is, cardboard is a brittle material that can quickly crack and lose its shape. If you like the idea of carrying around something made of cardboard, go for it! It will likely last less time though.
  • Fake designer bags are stealing!

Related Articles

  • Sort out Your Handbag
  • Pack Your Everyday Purse (Teen Girls)
  • Pack Your Purse