Handbags come in various sizes, and understanding their measurements is essential for selecting the right one. Discover how handbag sizes are determined, learn techniques to compare and measure bags effectively, and understand the importance of considering personal factors when selecting the ideal handbag size.
Whether you’re a purse perfectionist, a frequent traveler, or simply seeking a bag for everyday use, this article will teach you how to tell the size of a handbag with confidence, how to determine whether it’s the right fit for you, and some lesser known considerations that you may want to consider before you make your purchase.
Contents
Do handbags have sizes?
Yes, handbags have sizes. Handbag sizes can vary based on the style, design, and intended use of the bag. While there are no standardized sizes across all brands and types, bags are commonly categorized into sizes such as mini, small, medium, large, and extra-large.
Different bag manufacturers and brands often have their own size variations based on their designs and target markets, even though some bag styles have become synonymous with a general size. For example, a Tote bag is often assumed to be a large bag that can carry many things. However, it’s important to recognize that brands may use their own terminology to indicate the general size of a bag. They may use terms like “nano” to denote a mini-sized bag or “oversized” to indicate an extra-large sized bag.
Therefore, it’s important to refer to the specific measurements or dimensions provided by the manufacturer or seller when purchasing a bag. This information is typically available in product descriptions or specifications online, in reviews, or in bag forums. By knowing the measurements, you can determine if the bag size meets your specific requirements.
What is handbag size?
The size of a bag refers to its dimensions or capacity. The dimensions of a bag refer to its physical measurements, including length, width, height, and depth, which affect its exterior size. The capacity refers to the amount of space available inside to hold items and is typically measured in liters or cubic inches.
While the dimensions of a bag give us an idea of its size, they do not necessarily determine its capacity. A bag may have larger dimensions but a smaller internal capacity if it is designed with thicker padding or additional compartments. Conversely, a bag with smaller dimensions may have a surprisingly spacious interior due to efficient organization or expandable features.
Therefore, when considering the size of a bag, it is important to take into account both its dimensions and its capacity. Understanding the dimensions helps in evaluating the bag’s physical size and shape, while considering the capacity ensures that it can hold the items you need.
The measurements provided below for different bag sizes are a general guideline and can vary based on the specific design, shape, and style of the handbag.
What size is a mini handbag?
The size of a mini handbag ranges from 4 inches (10 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) in length, 3 inches (8 cm) to 6 inches (15 cm) in height, and 1 inch (2.5 cm) to 4 inches (10 cm) in width.
What size is a small handbag?
The size of a small handbag can range from 6 inches (15 cm) to 10 inches (25 cm) in length, 4 inches (10 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) in height, and 2 inches (5 cm) to 4 inches (10 cm) in width.
What size is a medium handbag?
The size of a medium handbag ranges from 10 inches (25 cm) to 12 inches (30 cm) in length, 6 inches (15 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) in height, and 3 inches (8 cm) to 5 inches (13 cm) in width.
What size is a large handbag?
The size of a large handbag ranges from 12 inches (30 cm) to 18 inches (45 cm) in length, 8 inches (20 cm) to 12 inches (30 cm) in height, and 4 inches (10 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) in width.
What size is an extra-large handbag?
The size of an extra-large handbag ranges from 16 inches (41 cm) to 20 inches (51 cm) in length, 10 inches (25 cm) to 14 inches (36 cm) in height, and 6 inches (15 cm) to 10 inches (25 cm) in width.
What size is a one size bag?
A “one size” bag typically refers to a bag that is designed to fit most individuals, regardless of their body size or shape. The term “one size” suggests that the bag is adjustable, flexible, or accommodating enough to suit a wide range of users without specific size restrictions or closely adheres to the average size of a bag.
Is a handbag bigger than a purse?
A handbag is typically larger in size compared to a purse. Handbags are designed to carry a variety of items and often offer more storage space. Purses are designed to carry a few essential items, like a wallet, keys, and phone. However, both terms are often used interchangeably, depending on personal interpretations.
What size purse is best for everyday use?
A medium-sized bag is best for everyday use. A medium-sized bag offers sufficient space to carry essentials and is comfortable to carry throughout the day without causing strain or discomfort. A medium-sized bag is typically portable and can easily fit under your arm or be worn across the body if needed.
While a medium-sized bag is suitable for everyday use, it’s important to note that bag size alone does not guarantee durability or longevity. Size is just one aspect to consider when assessing a bag’s suitability for daily wear. Therefore, when seeking a bag for everyday use, it’s essential to evaluate not only the size but also the overall workmanship and robustness to ensure a lasting companion for your daily activities.
How do I know my handbag size?
There are four main ways to determine your handbag size:
Check the bag description or documentation
Review the product description provided by the manufacturer or retailer. Many handbags come with size information specified in their descriptions. This can include dimensions or size classifications such as small, medium, large, etc.
Visually estimate the size based on other objects
Compare your handbag to other bags of known sizes or objects of reference. For example, if you have a bag that is similar in size to a standard A4 sheet of paper, you can estimate its size based on paper size references. Here are some of the common papers sizes that correspond with bag sizes:
What is an A6 size bag?
An A6 size bag is designed to be similar in dimensions to an A6 sheet of paper, which measures 4.1 x 5.8 inches or 10.5 x 14.8 centimeters.
What is an A5 size bag?
An A5 size bag is designed to be similar in dimensions to an A5 sheet of paper, which measures 5.8 x 8.3 inches or 148 x 210 centimeters.
What is an A4 size bag?
An A4 size bag is designed to be similar in dimensions to an A4 sheet of paper, which measures 8.3 x 11.7 inches or 210 x 297 centimeters.
What is an A3 size bag?
An A3 size bag is designed to be similar in dimensions to an A3 sheet of paper, which measures 11.7 x 16.5 inches or 297 x 420 centimeters.
Compare the bag to our size chart
Compare the bag to our Purse Size Guide. While not all brands adhere to the measurements in our chart, it can give you a general idea. For example, small handbags are typically around 6-9 inches in length, medium handbags range from 10-14 inches, and large handbags can be 15 inches or more.
Measure the dimensions
If you want to know the size of your bag more accurately, you will need to measure the length, width, and height of your handbag and then calculate your results to give you a general idea of its capacity.
How do I calculate my bag size?
To calculate the size of a bag, you will first need to measure its dimensions—length, width, and height. By multiplying the values together, you can estimate the bag’s internal capacity or volume.
For example, in inches, if the length of the bag is 12 inches, the width is 6 inches, and the height is 8 inches, you would multiply 12 x 6 x 8, resulting in a bag size of 576 cubic inches or 2.5 gallons.
In centimeters, if the length of the bag is 30 cm, the width is 15 cm, and the height is 20 cm, you would multiply 30 cm x 15 cm x 20 cm, resulting in a bag size of approximately 9,000 cubic centimetres or 9 liters.
What do you use to measure a bag?
To measure a bag, you can use a measuring tape or a ruler.
A measuring tape is a flexible, long strip of material marked with measurements, typically in inches and centimeters. It allows you to measure the length, height, and width of a bag by extending the tape along each dimension and reading the measurement where it ends.
If a measuring tape is not available, you can also use a ruler. A ruler is a flat, rigid tool with measurements marked along its edge. While a ruler is generally shorter in length compared to a measuring tape, it can still be used to measure smaller bags or specific sections of a bag.
How do you measure a bag in inches?
Use a flexible metric measuring tape that is marked in inches. An inch can be divided into eight or sixteen parts. Align the edge of the bag with the first line on the tape, which starts at zero. You can use a rigid ruler to get a general measurement, but a flexible measuring tape will allow for more accuracy.
How do you measure a bag in CM?
Use a flexible metric measuring tape that is marked in centimeters. There are ten millimeters in one centimeter. Align the edge of the bag with the first line on the tape, which starts at zero. You can use a rigid ruler to get a general measurement, but a flexible measuring tape will allow for more accuracy.
Is there an app to measure bag size?
Yes. Some popular examples of measurement apps include:
- Measure by Google
- Air Touch Measure
- Measure 3D Pro
- AirMeasure – AR Tape
- MeasureKit – AR Ruler
- Scale it – AR tool (Free)
These mobile applications utilize augmented reality (AR) technology to measure objects, including bag sizes. They use your device’s camera and sensors to estimate the dimensions of an object based on visual input. Keep in mind that the accuracy of measurement apps can vary based on factors like lighting conditions, camera quality, and the stability of the device. It’s a good practice to use these apps as a rough estimate rather than relying on them for precise measurements.
What size purse should I carry?
The appropriate size purse to carry depends on the type of occasion and level of formality you need it for; the storage space of the bag in terms of your personal needs; the level of comfort and convenience you need; your body size and proportion; and your personal style.
- Occasion: Different events or situations may call for different purse sizes. For formal events, a smaller and more elegant clutch or mini purse may be suitable. For everyday use, a medium-sized purse that can hold your essentials comfortably may be preferable.
- Personal Needs: If you tend to carry a lot of items, such as a larger wallet, cosmetics, a notebook, or a laptop, you may require a larger bag with lots of storage. If you prefer to only carry a few essentials, a smaller purse is more practical.
- Lifestyle Needs: If you tend to travel a lot by plane or attend many events, size restrictions may need to be taken into consideration so as not to impede your activities.
- Comfort: Ensure that the size is manageable and doesn’t feel excessively heavy during extended periods of wear. Adjustable straps or handles can also provide flexibility in terms of how you carry the purse.
- Body Proportion: A purse that is proportionate to your frame can create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look. If you have a petite frame, a small to medium-sized purse may be more suitable, while larger purses may complement taller individuals or those with a larger frame.
- Personal Style: Your personal style and preferences play a role in selecting a purse size. Consider the overall look you want to achieve and choose a size that aligns with your style and fashion choices.
How do I know if my bag is too big?
If your bag has excessive empty space, causes discomfort or strain when carrying, lacks practicality for your daily activities, overwhelms your appearance, or looks out of proportion with your body size, it may be a sign that your bag is too big.
How can I reduce my bag size?
To reduce the size of your bag, declutter and prioritize the items that are essential versus what can be removed; opt for more compact versions of the items you typically carry; use bag inserts or organizers to help organize loose items and optimize the space; or downsize to a smaller bag that better suits your needs.
How do I know if my bag is too small?
If your bag consistently struggles to hold all your essential items comfortably, lacks sufficient compartments for organization, is difficult to close, or causes strain and discomfort while carrying it, it may be too small.
How do you know if a bag is right for your body height?
The right size bag for your body height depends on whether you carry the bag by its handles in your hands, by shoulder straps, or by an adjustable crossbody strap. In each case, the most important factor to consider is the length of the straps or handles. In handbag terminology, this is called handle drop or strap drop and can help you calculate what length you need for your height.
- Stand in a relaxed, upright position with your shoulders down and your arms hanging naturally by your sides.
- Hold the bag by its handle or place the shoulder strap on your shoulder, positioning it in a comfortable and natural position as if you were carrying it.
- Top handle bags held in the hand should hang naturally, with the base of the bag hanging anywhere from the knee to ankle level. The handles should be long enough for ease of use but short enough to prevent too much swinging.
- Tote bags are usually carried on one shoulder and should hang around hip level or slightly below it. When the straps are the right length, they should help carry heavy contents and allow for hands free movement and easy access to the contents.
- Crossbody bags are worn diagonally across the body, with the strap typically resting on one shoulder and the bag positioned on the opposite side of the body. The bottom of the crossbody bag should fall around hip level, allowing the bag to sit comfortably against the body without being too high or too low.
- If the bag has adjustable straps or handles, adjust them to the appropriate length listed above. Ensure the bag is positioned at a height that feels natural and is visually appealing.
- Look at the bag in relation to your body. The bottom of the bag should ideally rest around your hip bone or slightly above it. The bag should not be too low, where it hangs too far down, or too high, where it sits unnaturally high on your torso.
- Assess the bag’s size and shape in relation to your body proportions. The bag should not overpower your frame or appear disproportionately large or small compared to your height and build.
- Experiment with and compare different bag sizes according to what you normally carry in them, adjust the straps as needed, and consider how comfortable they make you feel. The right bag for your height will make you feel comfortable and confident while enhancing your overall appearance.
How to compare handbag sizes
Comparing handbag sizes can be an effective way to know whether a bag is right for you. For handbag comparison, it’s important to consider the following:
- Recreate the dimensions of a bag. Write down the dimensions side by side or draw them out on a piece of paper to get a better visual comparison. While this may not give you the entire picture when it comes to the bags’ capacity or ease of use, it can help you get a better sense of their size in relation to one another.
- Research the bags while being worn. Product images are usually shot in a studio using unnatural lighting, which can affect the perception of the bag’s size. Try instead to find pictures of how the bags appear in relation to a human body.
- Calculate the storage capacity of each handbag. Consider the number of compartments and pockets and their sizes to determine how well they can accommodate your belongings.
- Visit a store to physically see and try on the handbags you are comparing. While this is not always possible or convenient, it will provide you with the best sense of the size, fit, and how the bag looks when worn.
- Look for customer reviews or feedback. Other people’s experiences can offer valuable insights into the actual size and functionality of the bags.
- Consider your personal needs and preferences. Determine what size would be most practical and suitable for your daily activities, occasions, and the items you typically carry.
What is personal bag size?
A personal bag refers to the dimensions that comply with the personal item regulations set by airlines. A personal item is a smaller bag or item that is usually placed under the seat in front or overhead if you are seated beside an emergency exit. The size limits for personal bags vary depending on the airline.
For example, for American Airlines, the dimensions of a carry-on personal size bag should not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
What are handbag size restrictions?
Handbag size restrictions are guidelines or limitations imposed on the dimensions of handbags that are permissible at certain events or situations. These restrictions are typically established by organizations, institutions, or authorities for various reasons, including safety, security, convenience, or practicality.
The specific size restrictions can vary depending on the context of different situations, such as dimension restrictions for airline carry-on, stadium and event restrictions, workplace restrictions, or venue-specific restrictions such as museums and art-galleries. If you are searching for the perfect bag size and you encounter these situations regularly, it is important to check the guidelines beforehand to determine if the restrictions will apply to your bag.
