Tips for Picking a Stylish Handbag for a Night-out on the Town

Every woman knows that the evening bag she chooses can make or break her ensemble. It’s difficult to know where to begin due to the wide variety of available options in terms of design, styles, and materials. This post will discuss how to choose the best handbag for a night out on the town, including what to look for and some examples of current trends.

Shape and Size of the Handbag

Regarding shape and size, it’s all about finding the right balance. Ideally, your bag would be large enough to store your necessities (cell phone, wallet, keys, etc.) without being too bulky to carry comfortably. The timeless clutch, the sleek crossbody, and the mini top handle are all great shapes for a glamorous evening out. If you’re the type to bring more than the bare minimum when going out, a mini tote or a bucket bag might be the way to go.

Beautiful young woman in the golden dress

Color and Material of the Handbag

Color is a matter of personal preference, and everyone has their own. Black and neutral tones are always a good bet, but a splash of color can make a huge difference. Trendy colors this season include fiery red, cool blue, and bright yellow.

Try to find something that has an exquisite, high-quality feel. Although leather is always a safe bet, you should branch out and get a bag with a different fabric, like velvet, satin, or even sequins, if you’re looking for something a little more unusual. You can count on these materials to shine brightly and make an impression.

Hardware and Details of the Handbag

Paying close attention to the hardware and details of your handbag can help it stand out from the crowd. Take into account a purse with an eye-catching fastener, like a fold-over flap or a gold turn-lock. Look for bags that have unique details like studs, fringe, or tassels.

Two beautiful Indian women enjoying the night in shopping and laughing on city street

Accessorizing with Confidence

One of the most important rules of accessorizing is to only wear things that make you feel good about yourself. After all, confidence is the most attractive accessory a woman can have. Don’t be afraid to try out new styles and trends when it comes to your handbag; it should reflect your individuality. Any outfit, from a little black dress to jeans and a tee, can benefit from the addition of a chic and functional handbag.

Consider Your Outfit

When going out for the evening, your handbag choice should complement your outfit. Pick a bag that adds to your ensemble rather than takes away from it. For instance, a neutral-colored purse would be the best option if you’re going for a bold and colorful dress. A bag with a striking pattern or eye-catching hardware can be the perfect finishing touch to an otherwise understated outfit.

Woman holding black clutch and ready for party

Think About Functionality

Functionality is another crucial factor when picking a handbag for a night out. The perfect bag would be lightweight, roomy, and easy to transport. Before leaving, make a mental list of everything you’ll need to bring, including your phone, keys, wallet, and any extra makeup you want to touch up with. If you have a lot of stuff and need a place to put it all, look for a bag with many pockets and compartments.

Mix and Match

One way to make the most of your handbag collection is to mix and match different styles to suit other occasions. When going out, you can bring along more than one bag if you’d like options for the various activities you might be involved in.

A chic, black clutch would be appropriate for a formal event, while a colorful crossbody bag would be more at home on a night out with friends. Have a bag that can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion. For this, a structured tote bag in a neutral color is an excellent choice because it can be worn in business attire and casual wear.

Close up female hand holding black rivet leather handbag bag

Consider Your Budget

Another thing to consider when choosing a handbag for a night out is your budget. Bags can range from a few dollars to several thousand dollars, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start shopping.

If you’re trying to save money, there’s no need to give up fashion. In contrast to the exorbitant prices of designer brands, there are a plethora of high-street labels selling fashionable and functional handbags at more reasonable prices. Look for sales, discounts, and second-hand options that can be a wise way to save.

Make It Personal

Carrying a handbag shows off more than just one’s sense of style. Don’t be shy about picking a bag as individual as you are. Pick a bag with a fun print or pattern, an unusual closure, or an eye-catching embellishment. Making your own bag is a great way to express your personality and stand out from the crowd.

Girl with handbag in front of grid 

Handbag as an Extension of Your Wardrobe

A good handbag can be used as an accessory to complement and enhance an already impressive wardrobe. Always consider the rest of your outfits when shopping for a new handbag. Even if most of your clothes are muted tones, a bright handbag can make a huge difference by adding a splash of color and a whole new dimension to your outfit. A classic and understated handbag is perfect for a wardrobe full of prints and patterns.

The handbag you choose should also complement the look you’re going for. For instance, a fringed or tasseled purse would look fabulous with a bohemian-style dress. On the other hand, a minimalist outfit would benefit from a sleek and structured bag.

On-Trend Styles

Here are some of the on-trend styles you can consider for your next night out: 

  • Bucket Bags: This style is comfortable and convenient, which makes it perfect for a night out. 
  • Chain Strap Bags: This style is quite stylish and versatile. It has a long chain strap which makes it easy to wear. 
  • Tiny Totes: A mini tote bag is a must-have for any fashion-conscious woman. They are a perfect size for carrying essentials, and the rectangular shape makes them an excellent option for casual and formal events. 
  • Box Bags: This style is sleek and sophisticated and perfect for a night out. Its geometric shape adds a modern touch to any outfit.

Fashion photo of two purse

Overall, a handbag is more than just a practical accessory—it expresses one’s individuality and fashion statement. You should consider your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences when picking out a handbag for a night out, in addition to the bag’s shape, size, color, material, hardware, and details. Get ready for your next night out in style with the help of the perfect handbag.

If you need more recommendations, you may also read our Guide to Picking a New Handbag.