The Best Handbags for Your Frame

In all my previous posts, I’ve focused directly on shape and not size, but since there is no fit involved in your handbags, size actually DOES matter. Not only does size matter, but so does where the bag sits when you carry it.

Petite

If you have a petite frame, your purses and handbags should be proportional to your frame. If you are a triangle, you want to avoid having the purse set at the widest part of the hip as it will emphasize the hip. Instead, opt for lengths sit in right at the waist. Adjustable straps are nice so you can make sure that the bag doesn’t sit too low for your frame.

*This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases from Amazon. I am also a Target affiliate and I will make a small commission for purchases using my links, at no extra cost to you.

Petite Clutch

  When looking for a clutch, choose styles that are on the small end of the spectrum. The BMC Womens Perforated Cut Out Gold Accent Foldover Pouch Fashion Clutch Handbag is a good example of a small clutch as its width is less than a foot wide. The laser cutouts are also a dainty pattern that will complement your small features as well.  

Petite Shoulder Bag

 For a medium-sized shoulder bag, choose a bag that is substantial enough to carry the things that you need, but doesn’t overpower your figure. The Top Handle Satchel Handbag – A New Day™  from Target is a nice size guide. It is still a good size at 9″ wide. The sleek minimal design is also fitting for a petite frame. 

Petite Tote

 But let’s be honest. You can’t always fit everything you need  in a shoulder bag. Sometimes life calls for a bigger bag like a tote. You just want to make sure that the tote isn’t so large that it looks like you’re carrying a suitcase. The Square Saffiano Tote Handbag by A New Day from Target is only 11″ wide. It’s large enough to suit your needs, but small enough to stay in proportion to your figure. 

Average

Congratulations, you’re average! Again proportion is key. You can probably carry some of the same bags that your petite or tall friends do. Just keep in mind, when going small, like a clutch, make sure it’s not so small that it looks like a doll purse on your figure. If going large for a shoulder bag or a tote, don’t let it swallow you. The same rules that apply to the petite triangles apply to you too. For inverted triangles that need to balance the shoulder, a bag at the hips can help.

Average Clutch

 If you go for a fairly small clutch, amp up the emphasis with a fun print or bold color. This cute clutch from Amazon, Samantha Faux Leather Suede Womens Party Prom Wedding Ladies Clutch Bag – SWANKYSWANS, is a perfect example of a small to average clutch with a punch of color. The bold color gives the clutch more visual weight than it actually has.  It’s less than 10″ wide. 

Average Shoulder Bag

 An average sized shoulder bag should work nicely. Adjustable straps are a nice feature as they can allow you to adjust where the bag hangs on your body. Carry your bag just under the armpit, nestled into the waist. This will  highlight the narrowness of the waist. To balance out a strong shoulder, have the bag sit at your hip. Proportion is the most important with handbags. If your shoulder bag is so big that it looks like a tote on your body, go a little smaller if practically possible. Try out the Printed Saffiano Satchel Handbag by A New Day from Target for size. 

Average Tote

  For a tote, you can go pretty large. The MARINA Tote Handbag from YouGotShoes is a pretty great size at just over 13″ wide. Tuck in your beach towel, sunscreen, flip-flops and a good book and head to the beach. it even comes with a matching removable zip pouch for your private things.  

Tall and/or Plus

If you are plus size or have a tall frame, you can really use purses and handbags that have a lot of punch and they won’t over power you. If you want to use them to make a statement, go LOUD. There are a lot of really fun colors, textures and prints out there and you carry them beautifully.

Large Clutch

  I really like the Estee & Lilly Color Block Striped Beaded Clutch. Not only is it pretty large (10″ wide) for a clutch, but it has this really fun beaded pattern and color. For clutches, you can go as wide as they come, but be sure not to go too small. It depends on how dominant the clutch is compared to the rest of your outfit, but I’d say don’t go any smaller than 6″. It’s not a hard and fast rule, but something to think about. Hold the purse up next to you as you would normally carry it and look in the mirror. if it looks like you’re carrying a child’s purse, it’s too small.  

Large Shoulder Bag

  For a shoulder bag, pick one that is worthy of your figure. If it’s not big in size, pick one that’s big in attitude. I’d put this red purse up against a neutral purse several inches bigger. if a “big” purse is to cumbersome, choose one that’s “big” in another element so that it will look proportional to your figure. Scallop Tote Handbag – A New Day™ for the win!  

Large Tote

 When needing a tote, you can go as big as they come. I love that this is a massive tote. The practicality of this bag is unlimited. You could carry the Winged Tote Handbag – A New Day™ from Target as your diaper bag and be so sleek and polished that no one would ever know there are sippy cups and fruit pouches inside.

Finally, I hope I’ve given you some good examples to know what to shop for when purchasing a bag. Always “try it on” in front of the mirror to check out the proportion. Leave me some comments below and let me know if you’re looking for a bag for a specific event and I’d be glad to scour the markets for you.