Over the past year, handbags have quickly become the most popular accessory on the market. There are thousands of styles and designs to choose from, which makes it difficult to find the perfect handbag. Many women are unsure of which types of handbags work best with the shape of their bodies and end up choosing styles which make them look large or out of proportion. In order to help you choose the right type of purse for your body type we have compiled a list of body types as well as which kind of handbag is best suited for each type.

Choose the category which best reflects your body type:

Tall and Thin

If you are long and lean, you will be able to get away with almost any form of handbag. Clutches, oversized handbags and shoulder bags will suit you fantastically, but the size of the bag needs to be considered. Oversized, large bags are going to look best on you, whereas smaller ones are going to make you look even taller than you already are. If you want to purchase a smaller handbag, make sure it fits snugly under your shoulders.

Short and Plump

Shorter girls need to pay very careful attention to the types of handbags they choose. Smaller bags tend to look best since larger ones will overpower you and make you look even shorter. Shorter purses (especially those which fit tightly against your body) will create height and make you look taller than you really are.

Curvy

If you're lucky enough to have an hourglass figure you will want to accentuate your waistline. In order to do this, you will need to find a bag which hits just above the waist. This style and length is going to be most flattering. Medium sized bags work best to enhance your already gorgeous body type.

Plus Size

If you're plus size you will definitely want to stay away from small bags, which tend to make you look bigger than you are. Bags with short straps should also be avoided. Try a style which is larger and slightly wider than normal sizes since they will make you appear smaller.

The type of handbag you choose will not only depend on your body type, but also on the outfit you're wearing and what you are doing. Choose your handbags according to how you feel that day and what you think looks best on you. One handbag is never enough, so make sure you have a number to choose from. You wouldn't wear the same pair of shoes everyday, so why carry the same handbag?

Cathy Feldman is an avid purse enthusiast who has more handbags than she can count. She has become complete addicted to name brand bags and enjoys sharing her knowledge as a contributing editor of http://www.designerhandbags101.com - a site that offers information about handbags, Louis Vuitton handbags, coach handbags and more.