A shoulder bag is an easy way to accessorize an outfit. Take a peek at the latest tabloids and fashion magazines and you will see sleek looking stars carrying a magnificent shoulder bag. Stars are able to pull of the latest and greatest in handbags, because they can afford the help of fashion stylists. While you may not be able to fork off a bi-weekly salary to a personal stylist, you can most definitely decide on which shoulder bag works best for you.

What is a Shoulder Bag?

A shoulder bag has a shoulder strap. It differs from the hand held clutch purse because of its strap. Clutch purses can have tiny straps that are easily hidden within the confines of the purse. Shoulder bags, however, can have thin, thick, long, or short straps. A shoulder bag gets its name for the way the bag can be worn'hanging loosely from the shoulder.

Types of Shoulder Bags



Crossbody shoulder bags are easily slung across the chest or back. Crossbody bags can be small or large, and are perfect for traveling. A crossbody bag is designed for comfort because the weight is evenly distributed across the body instead of the shoulder.

Hobo shoulder bags are known for their shape. Hobo bags are shaped like a crescent moon. In recent years hobo bags have become super popular and extra large sized hobo bags are very trendy.

Barrel shaped shoulder bags look exactly like they sound. These bags are in the shape of a barrel and numerous designers have embraced this shape.

Tote shoulder bags can also be considered carryalls. Totes can lack structure or look similar to a square. Tote shoulder bags can have single or double straps. Tote shoulder bags can be used for school and are also an eco-friendly way to hold items while shopping.

Best Shoulder Bag for Your Body Type

Petite Frame: While most stylists and fashion mavens state that petite frames should stray away from large sized bags, pint sized glam queens have rocked them. The Olsen sisters, Vanessa Hudgens, and Kim Kardashian frequently rock the big bag trend. We suggest a mid sized bag rather than a whopping large bag that may draw attention to your slight frame. A bag that falls right above the hip will do the trick.

Tall: Lanky fashionistas should avoid super tiny shoulder bags. Tall gals will look great with mid size and larger size shoulder bags.

Plus Size: Bigger frames should also stay away from elfin sized purses. We suggest attach' shoulder bag purses that fit closer to the body and look perfect right under the shoulder. Attach' purses will evoke a sleeker silhouette. The more round you are the more structured your purse should be.

Tips:

The length of a shoulder bag will draw attention to the closest body part. A small shoulder bag that ends near the breasts will draw attention to the breasts. A low slung crossbody bag that hangs near the hips will draw attention to the hips.

Don't buy a purse that you are not comfortable with. It doesn't matter who designed the shoulder bag or who's wearing it. If you're not happy, don't buy it.