A handbag is a purse that’s typically larger and holds more than just money, like credit cards and keys. Originally the term referred to bags designed for holding coins but now it’s more commonly used as a synonym for any bag used by women to carry small accessories, such as makeup, cell phones and other essentials.
In the 1990s many handbag manufacturers moved their production overseas, following the pattern of other leather and apparel companies, to control manufacturing costs. This move also allowed them to take advantage of foreign markets that were eager for new fashion brands and products.
There are different types of handbags, including totes, shoulder bags, clutches and satchels. The most popular type of handbag is a tote, which has a flat bottom and large open compartments for storage. Shoulder bags are usually longer than tote bags and can be carried over the shoulder or in the crook of your arm. A satchel is a rectangular bag that can be carried with two handles. It has a top closure and a front flap, with a flat bottom and a triangular side profile.
A bindle is a cute little bag that’s inspired by those pouches that hobos use to carry their things in. These incredibly stylish, mini bags feature a drawstring cinch closure and can be tied together or slung around the body when you’re on the go. Evening bags are compact and incredibly fashionable, with stones or sequins that match your stunning formal attire.
BLESSAC Bible Leather Handbag For Christian Women, Medium, Zipper - Christmas Gift For Wife, Mom, Grandma
$79.95 (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.)
CYHTWSDJ Shoulder Bags for Women, Cute Hobo Tote Handbag Mini Clutch Purse with Zipper Closure
$16.98 (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.)
Hobo Bags for Women Soft Vegan Leather Shoulder Handbag Slouchy Tote Purses
$28.90 (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.)
BAGSMART Expandable Tote Bag for Women, Puffer Work Tote Handbag, Quilted Carry On Bag for Travel Gym
$23.98 (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.)
BAGSMART Tote Bag for Women, Puffy Tote Bag with Zipper, Large Quilted Shoulder Bag with Compartments for Travel, Work, Gym
$21.65 (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.)
Dooney & Bourke Handbag, Sorrento Crossbody 25
$109.00 (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.)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