Dressing to suit your body shape is one thing, but finding the bag that fits the whole picture is another. Like your clothes, your bags require careful consideration and the only bags that will change your life are the ones you use every day. Having said that (and I’m hoping I didn’t rain on your parade), the most important thing to understand is that whatever your shape, the bag is about creating balance.

It’s also about having fun …

Create a balance by choosing wide handbags with a firm structure; hard leather tote handbags and top handle bags are just right for you. If you have a large bust, stay away from clutches, cross body bags, and shoulder bags. They will make your top appear wider. Instead, choose medium-sized handbags such as bowling bags, tote bags, and hand-held structured bags. If you really can’t live without cross body bags, make sure the shoulder strap is extended to let the bag end below the hip.

Your handbag needs to sit near your natural waist and it’s better if it isn’t too close to your bust. Shoulder bags, satchel bags, cross body bags, and hobo bags with adjustable straps work well. If you decide to carry a clutch purse, make sure it’s wide.

Smooth textures and patterns worn with simple outfits create a more dramatic effect.

This two-tone Satchel bag is a beauty …

You need a handbag that creates the illusion of curves for your long, lean body. Choose bags that rest at your natural waist and please avoid cross body bags or any other bags with long straps. A bag that rests on or below your hips will never work for you! Instead, choose long-strapped satchel bags, clutches that you can tuck under your arm, and hobo bags.

The design and the material of the handbag are also important for you as you’re trying to add curves. Keep the length of the straps so that the bag falls around your hips.

Best to leave the well-structured and geometrical shaped bags for others even though you may love them …

Because you don’t want to look thicker from the waist down, make sure you keep the focus around your shoulders and chest. Be careful about the strap length. Your bag should not fall below your waistline.

Go for shoulder bags, bucket bags and, if you must, belt bags although they’re not really recommended because they will draw attention to the part of you you’re trying not to notice. Although, (there’s always an exception!) you can wear a belt bag across your chest … I’m not sure why you would but I suppose it’s convenient if you’re walking distance or want your bag handy to you.