When it comes to choosing a type of handbag to make an investment in, you can get stumped. And the usual comparison people keep asking online is: should I invest in a tote bag or a regular old handbag?
The reason for this is usually because when you’re shopping designer there are less options for tote bags and more options for just a regular old handbag, and you may think ‘oh that’s because handbags are better’ but the real reason is because tote bags are only just cementing themselves as a lasting trend, so designer bag companies have not committed to a wide range as of yet. Whereas a regular handbag has been a staple for decades now, so brands don’t just have new handbags, they have vintage handbags of all shapes and sizes.
So now that we’ve covered why people are asking this question, here’s the difference between handbags and tote bags for women.
Difference in Straps
Here is one of the biggest differences you will come across, and you’ll notice it immediately. The regular, traditional handbag usually has one strap. Sometimes in crossbody bags, the strap will be long and flexible, other times in shoulder bags, it will be shorter and sturdier. Regardless, one strap is the norm. However, the tote bag has two straps, and this is not something that varies. This is because a tote bag was born from the shopping bag, and easily opening it is one of the key features. So, remember this feature when shopping, it’s one of the biggest things to consider.
Difference of Size and Shape
Almost consistently, the size of a handbag is going to be smaller than a tote bag. This is also something to consider as the bag you choose will depend on your needs, but size matters to most people, if not for what you carry, it also needs to flatter your body,
The larger tote bag will naturally allow for more space, and the handbag will allow for less space. But which shape will suit your body, and from here, there’s still a lot of variety, so more factors need to be considered before choosing between the two.
Difference in Interiors
The interior of a handbag is much better than most tote bags if organisation is vital to you. This is because handbags have a lot of pockets and zips for keeping your things where they belong, which makes them easy to find in a rush. On the opposite end of the spectrum, tote bags are mostly made of one larger pocket, and maybe one or two smaller pockets. This means they’re great for carrying heaps of things, but at the same time, finding just one thing inside the tote bag can be hard.
Difference of Space
If you want to carry heaps of things in your daily life, the tote bag is the best choice. This is because it can be expanded to carry heaps of things, and handbags don’t have this feature. In addition, a handbag is made to be slightly more compact and formal, so you won’t have such a flexible space as the handbag is used for only certain needs. This difference of space is vital in deciding between bag styles.
Difference of Usage
This is something that many people don’t take the time to think of. What are you using the bag for? If you’re investing in designer bags and you are only going to formal places, a handbag works great for occasions like work dinners, parties, night events and more. But, if your life is more informal, or you have children who need lots of things on a whim, a tote bag Is super convenient. Just remember that lifestyle matters, and how you use a bag dictates where you’ll use a bag.
Difference of Purpose
Designer bags are almost always made with a purpose. This means you need to align yourself with the purpose, otherwise you will resent your purchase. If you are carrying super fragile stuff, like your favourite lipstick, compact, and your necklaces, a handbag is the best choice. If you’re carrying a water bottle, your lunch, and a notebook? A tote bag is just fine for your needs.
Difference in Materials Used
In most cases, a designer handbag and designer tote bag will be made of similar materials. They will almost always be durable, and luxurious. But the way these materials are used will vary. Often in the case of designer bags, a designer tote will not be made of as intricate of materials or stitching as a handbag, as they are designed to be less pretty and more useful. This also extends to the lining. Designer handbags will not be lined with as durable of materials as designer totes. So keep that in mind. If you’re wondering what the difference in materials is, I went to the official Louis Vuitton Australia website (watch out for fakes) and researched it myself before making a choice for my new bag, and this is a smart idea.
Now that you know what the difference is, it’s time to start shopping, which is way better than researching. Just remember to know what you want and go from there!
