Before the mid-nineteenth century, the only choice women had for handbags were tiny drawstring mesh bags. Bags have come a long way since then. Today there are handmade bags and designer bags for women and men for every occasion imaginable. There are book bags, evening purses, gym bags, make-up bags, handbags and more. Each bag has its own name, function, unique style and design. Whatever it is you're carrying, rest assured; that perfect bag is out there. Before you go hunting for that perfect bag, whether it's a handmade bag, gym bag or designer bag, it's a good idea to know what you're looking for. Check out the list below of today's most popular bags.Satchel: A satchel is a bag with a strap long enough to be worn diagonally across the body with the strap hanging from the shoulder and the bag resting on the opposite hip. A satchel is similar in shape to a briefcase, however it has a long strap and is soft-sided. Satchels often have an inside sleeve for a laptop and are commonly used for carrying books.Doctor Bag: A doctor bag large bag with small handle that is carried on the arm rather than on the shoulder. The first doctor bags have come a long way since their advent in the late 1800s. Since then, these bags have evolved from purely functional to functional and fashionable. Doctor bags make great airplane carry-ons with plenty of room for make-up, toiletries, magazines, socks and a pullover.Shoulder Bucket Bag: The shoulder bucket bag gets its name from, yes, you guessed it - a bucket. With two handles, generous carrying space and top zippered, this handbag is a must-have if you're a woman who likes to carry her life around with her and still look fabulous and put together.Barrel Bag: Barrel bags are adorable yet trendy with a horizontal, cylindrical shape. They are dachshunds of the handbag world, with their cute hot dog shape, only with long legs - oops, I mean handles. It's long handles hang over the shoulder for easy carrying.Duffle Bag: Duffle bags are usually used for carrying sports equipment or travel luggage. Similar in shape to the barrel bag but about ten times the size. These bags are often made of thick, durable fabric.Hobo Bag: Hobo bags are the ultimate going-out handbag. It's cute oval shape and small handles ensure that it hangs femininely under the arm. It's slight enough that it does not take away from your outfit, yet still roomy enough to carry a small wallet, keys, cell phone and make-up.Tote Bag: Tote bags are medium to large hand-held bags with two straps. A tote bag is normally made of heavy, durable fabric like canvas, nylon or leather. The word tote actually means "to carry" and is used to carry just about anything, including groceries, books, beach gear, lap tops and more.Cosmetic Bag: Cosmetic bags are an essential component of any bag. Whether it's airplane carry-on bags or everyday handbags, cosmetic bags are a must-have to keep make-up safely contained. Without cosmetic bags, make-up would be lost in a handbag and might leak out all over your designer bag and the contents inside. What a mess!Clutch Bag: Clutch bags are very feminine and delicate evening bags without a handle, and a classy rectangular shape and narrow width. These bags are often just big enough to carry keys, lip gloss, cell phone and cash.Sling Bag: Sling bags, also called "man-bags" or "man-purses", are similar to satchel bags but smaller in size. Sling bags are worn over one shoulder with a long strap that crosses the chest and hip, resting comfortably on the lower back.
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Incredibly Handmade is a one of a kind shopping site with unique handmade bags, embroidered bags and other handmade accessories from around the world. Feel free to visit our online store at http://incrediblyhandmade.com/
