Bag names can be confusing. Is a hobo a tote? When does a shoulder bag become a crossbody? Here is a plain-English guide to the main shapes, what each one does well, and who it suits.
Crossbody bags
What it is: a small-to-medium bag on a long strap worn diagonally across the body.
Best for: errands, travel, concerts and anyone who wants both hands free. The weight sits on your hip instead of one shoulder, and the bag stays in front of you where you can see it.
Two good examples: the Canvassers, a retro canvas crossbody with leather trim, a front zip pocket and an adjustable, detachable strap. And the Breezers, a lightweight quilted-nylon bag with multiple zip compartments.
Shoulder bags
What it is: a bag with a shorter strap that sits on the shoulder or tucks under the arm.
Best for: work, dinners and dressier days. Shoulder bags tend to look a little more polished because the bag sits close to your body.
The Slouchers are a good in-between: a frosted velvet bag with a tassel detail and a 120cm adjustable strap that you can shorten for shoulder wear or let out for crossbody.
Tote bags
What it is: a large, open or zip-top bag with two handles, usually carried on the shoulder or in the hand.
Best for: commuting, shopping, the office or the beach: anything where you carry more than the basics.
For colder months, the Puffers quilted plush tote comes in two sizes: 31 x 22 x 12cm or 46 x 29 x 14cm. That makes it easy to pick a cute small version or a roomy everyday one.
Hobo bags
What it is: a soft, slouchy, crescent-shaped bag that "relaxes" when you put it down.
Best for: people who want tote-level space with a softer, more casual look. Because the shape gives a little, hobos are comfortable against the body.
The Toters are our high-capacity hobo, with a zip top and tassel pull, in eight colors.
Bucket bags
What it is: a round or cylindrical bag, usually with a drawstring top.
Best for: casual weekends and holidays. Bucket bags look relaxed but hold their shape. See the woven Baskers or the plush, checkerboard Boarders.
Which one should you start with?
If you only own one bag, choose a crossbody with an adjustable strap. It covers the most situations. Add a tote for busy days and a small statement bag for evenings, and you're covered for almost everything.
Shop the look
Every Winsome order ships with tracking, free on orders of $50 or more, and every item comes with 30-day returns. Questions about a bag? Email us at info@winsomeboutique.com.