A handbag is a purse or pocketbook, typically used by women, for holding money, toilet articles, small purchases and other items. Handbags are often a fashion statement, and women choose them to complement or enhance their clothing and appearance. Most handbags are made from leather, but cloth and plastic bags are also available. Some designer bags are made of precious metals and gemstones.
Bags are a common accessory, and they are available in many styles to suit every woman’s taste. In recent years, the industry has seen a number of new developments. One trend is that bags are being designed to hold cellular phones and personal digital assistants. Some also have interior lighting to help a woman find items in her purse.
Designers are also experimenting with different materials to make their bags more durable and attractive. Some bags are even being made from recycled material.
The average woman carries at least four handbags. Handbags are marketed through a variety of channels, including online stores and catalogs. Many high-end handbag companies also operate their own branded stores. In addition, some have partnered with department or specialty stores.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, where she writes and edits stories about the latest clothing, accessories and shoe must-haves. She has a passion for handbags, and she frequently keeps up with street style to understand which It-bags are coveted by the style set. She also consults Ulrich Grimm, a lecturer of accessory design at Parsons School of Design, and Virginia Rolle, founder of Big Bag Club.
XquiziFit Clutch Purses for Women Formal Evening Clutch with Detachable Chain Faux Suede Purse for Wedding Party
$15.59 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
COACH Women's Crystal Jacquard Swinger 20 with Chain
$225.00 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
TOPDesign Personalized Initial Canvas Beach Bag, Monogrammed Gift Tote Bag for Women
$17.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
BAGSMART Mini Backpack for Women, Lightweight Puffer Small Backpack Purse, Quilted Casual Travel Daypack, Cute Water-Resistant Bookbag for Daily, Black
$24.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
INICAT Travel Small Crossbody Sling Bags Valentines Day Gifts Women Her Cross Body Purses Vegan Leather Birthday
$25.99 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
SYTRAH Anti-Theft Crossbody Purse for Women, Crossbody Shoulder Bag with Built-in Wallet & RFID Blocking for Travel Workout
$23.75 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
LOVEVOOK Purses and Handbags for Women, PU Leather Tote Shoulder Purse with Scarves, Satchel Top Handle Bags with Strap
$25.98 (as of December 28, 2025 19:54 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Auto Amazon Links: No products found. http_request_failed: A valid URL was not provided. URL: https://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?SearchIndex=All&multipageStart=0&multipageCount=20&Operation=GetResults&Keywords=Purses+%26+Handbags|What+is+a+Handbag%3F&InstanceId=0&TemplateId=MobileSearchResults&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US Cache: AAL_9333b0b866242c89f4341aec3a8a3825