Some women love purses and need to have one of each style, colour and size. On the opposite end of the spectrum are women who buy one handbag and carry it until the straps fall off. But everyone should have three basic styles of handbags that can meet a variety of needs and serve them during many different occasions. Whether you have 25 bags in your collection or one trusty purse, consider these three styles for style and functionality in your handbag accessory collection.

Hip Bag

Sometimes you need to be hands-free and a hip bag, or hipster, allows you to do just that. Whether juggling the kids, running errands or travelling, a hip bag carries your essentials and leaves your hands and arms free for other things. A hip bag with a long strap that can be worn across your body is often the best option when travelling because it keeps important items, such as money, credit cards and your passport, secure and close to your body. Give your hip bag double-duty by also using it as a camera bag.

Satchel

When a long strap gets in the way and a small bag isn’t big enough, a satchel style purse provides a great medium-sized handbag option. With their shorter, rounded handles, a satchel bag is easily carried in your hands or over your wrist.This is an effective option if long-handled purses tend to give you a backache after awhile due to the weight of your bag. Most satchel bags have a large main compartment and one or two inner and outer pockets, providing plenty of room for important items.

Tote Style Purse

A tote style handbag is one of the most useful and versatile styles you can own, even if you don’t use it regularly. Although some women love a large purse on a daily basis, if you prefer a smaller sized purse, a tote bag will come in handy for many other things. Remove the need for a purse and a briefcase or workbag by using one large tote for both, instead. Large totes are also ideal for carry-on bags for travel.