https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:29:32 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479997 Sat, 25 Apr 2015 12:13:38 +0000 em 1479997@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have two top-handled bags that are about 11 inches long. They are rather heavy and too small for a laptop or letter-sized paper. I use them when I attend events that I need to impress or when I am going somewhere and need to take notes on a steno-sized pad or hold samples. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479970 Sat, 25 Apr 2015 06:24:53 +0000 tulle 1479970@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My everyday run-around bags are smallish rectangular crossbodies about the size of a hardback book, but I take a larger handbag&nbsp; with me when I travel, especially by plane. I travel light, with just a carry-on roller bag, so my travel handbag must be able to hold my laptop, make-up, phone, wallet, Kindle, magazines, gloves, scarf, etc. It must zip at the top to prevent things from falling out in flight, and it must have at least one pocket accessible on the outside for passport &amp; boarding pass.&nbsp; And it must make me happy when I look at it!&nbsp; Right now I have two larger bags. The more polished one is a lusciously soft lambskin Botkier medium 'Sasha' duffle in a yummy coral color which changes from a slouchy, roomy shoulder bag to a more compact satchel by passing the strap through loops on the bottom--a very clever and useful detail.&nbsp; The other,&nbsp; more RATE bag is a navy ticking-stripe canvas and&nbsp; brown leather mailbag shape with a webbing strap that adjusts from crossbody to&nbsp; shoulder strap, plus a leather hand grip.&nbsp; So I guess for me a larger bag must be good-looking, commodious, and versatile.&nbsp; When I find one that meets all my requirements, I use it until it falls apart! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479743 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 19:36:04 +0000 rachylou 1479743@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I saw a Marc Jacobs satchel at The Rack just now. Wrong colour, but oh light! It's interesting how some bags can be so heavy and some so light. </p> <p>Anyways, it's true - I can't really change what I do for a pretty handbag. I'm movie resistant, lol. At an hour and thirty in, I start bugging to get out!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479650 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 18:19:33 +0000 Louise 1479650@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Back to add that most of my bags are pleather with little to no hard wear, both of which help to keep the weight down x </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479610 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 17:16:47 +0000 rizamei 1479610@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My main requirement for work bags is that they're large enough to hold letter-sized files, as I tote those around to meetings, and have zip tops. &nbsp;I generally carry my wallet (large, zip-around, can double as clutch), my keys, a work portfolio,&nbsp;work name badge and key card,&nbsp;make-up/toiletries pouch, a reusable shopping bag, business cards in holder, pens, and a small notebook. I have three of this larger size. Some are wider overall and work well if I want to throw in a lunch, snack, novel, or water bottle/coffee mug. Some are dressier and work well for things like interviews. Two of the three can easily fit my laptop, too.</p> <p>On weekends, I use a casual hobo when I'm running errands. If I'm just walking around the neighborhood, I'll often just put the essentials in my jacket pockets and go bag free! (My big wallet has a section that snaps out that holds an ID, credit card, and a few bills or coins.)</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479527 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 15:37:57 +0000 UmmLila (Lisa) 1479527@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I usually buy bags that my iPad can fit in, so I need a satchel or tote. I don't always carry the iPad, but still want the option.&nbsp;</p> <p>I've actually been looking for something else this spring like a hobo shoulder bag, but I haven't found anything I like. (Well, there was a light blue Rebecca Minkoff moto satchel but I waited too long and it sold out.)</p> <p>I have tried going over to smaller bags, but somehow when I get the bulky car keys, sunglasses, cosmetic bag, wallet and phone in there, they get packed so tightly they annoy me.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479509 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:52:58 +0000 Gennifyr 1479509@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I tend towards smaller bags but recently bought a 13x11x9 bucket bag. Which might not qualify as big but it's huge to me. I wanted one for when I go somewhere that I'd take my camera with me. It's huge and has several lenses. So when I go on a weekender to Halifax next month or to the beach with kids. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479502 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:41:45 +0000 abc 1479502@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't think you should change your life to fit your bag. A cheaper version as a test is a sound idea. </p> <p>Here's the thing. To me it is two things. Lifestyle and preference. </p> <p>When I used to drive a car to work I wore heels daily and carried a big bag. The max lifting (or stomping in case of shoes) came from parking lot to office. Now my lifestyle changed. I live an urban walking lifestyle. No way would those same shoes work for me now in the life I live, nor is the purse the right choice anymore. Also my kids and their ages have factored in lately. </p> <p>Right now I have two purse setups depending on use case:<br /> 1. Tote that holds laptop and some papers, and a clutch fits inside and is pulled out when needed. If no laptop swap out kid necessities and I am good to go still w clutch. Fwiw the clutches I have are all about 8 inches by 4-5 inches and have at least two compartments and built in cars slots. It holds keys, lipstick, two phones (bc one just isn't enough, haha) and money/cards with a little spare room. They all have wrist straps too.<br /> 2. I am personally on the hunt for something between the size you mentioned and a clutch. Must be crossbody for functional purposes. This is for when I need to carry a little more than the clutch holds - yet I won't let myself go up to full on purse size since I will be walking a lot with it. Hence the crossbody. </p> <p>I've been analyzing my own needs lately and I really want a gorgeous cognac tote and a medium crossbody in leather - color tbd. </p> <p>Good luck. I think you should analyze your needs and go from there. There is no reason you should feel pressured into a certain bag size just bc it's pretty! You can find something pretty that meets your needs too. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479496 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:32:23 +0000 AM 1479496@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I carry a tote -- always. Gym, errands, on the town, even casual dinners. I have my brush, makeup, keys, large wallet, two pairs of glasses (readers and sun), phone, and a lot of times my iPad. If I am "dressing up" -- I'll give my husband a lipstick and live without the purse. I'm starting to rethink this. I think a small black "dinner" bag should be on my needs list. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479492 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:24:24 +0000 amiable 1479492@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A friend of mine once commented that you can tell how many kids a woman has by the size of her bag - more kids = more stuff to carry = larger bag. &nbsp;I suspect my bag, while it feels slightly small, is right in line with my five kids. &nbsp;And I want a satchel too </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479490 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:21:33 +0000 Ledonna N. 1479490@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I go dancing every weekend I had to,figure out what to do with my stuff wallets, keys, gum etc. this caused me to go on the hunt for something that was much smaller and more functional. I have several convertible bags that can be worn cross body, backpack or at the waist. I kike the hands free option that comes with thses tea of bags. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479485 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 14:04:33 +0000 Jules 1479485@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>There are large bags that aren't heavy, almost seem weightless. I've tried on a couple lately, like this one from Danier (decided it is too plain however&nbsp; - and too big!). For my transit commute I used to like a medium sized bag that carried a magazine or book, lunch, water bottle, scarf, etc. Now that I usually have a separate laptop bag, I don't really need a big purse as often because a lot of those extras go in the laptop backpack. So I think it just really depends on your lifestyle &amp; habits. I also aim to always have a collapsible shopping bag (or at the low end, plastic bag!) in my purse.<br /><a href="http://www.danier.com/jodie-pebbled-leather-large-crossbody/d/2544_cl_11602" rel="nofollow">http://www.danier.com/jodie-pe.....4_cl_11602</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479483 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 13:58:46 +0000 Diana 1479483@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I bring to work every day: (small) wallet, phone, keys, lunch. Sunglasses or umbrella on most days. (and you have seen my sunglasses. They are enormous.). Also,often a hat, gloves, and maybe a cardigan. I use a medium size bag for that. I can fit my iPad too if I want. On laptop days I bring a big tote instead. I refuse to carry two bags.</p> <p>But I don't use satchels. The handles are too short and I only use bags I can sling over my shoulder. Totes and hoboes all the way for me.</p> <p>I have to stop myself from buying all the cute little bags. Ecause I pretty much only use them on weekends. Also, I love flat bags (like envelope bags and similar) but have to remind myself how impractical they are! No matter how big they are, they still hold nothing. It's not that my stuff is huge, it's just somehow all THICK. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479474 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 13:44:50 +0000 Author Linda 1479474@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love large bags, though I carry them far less often now than I did before retiring. Most of the time I can run around carrying only a wristlet and keys. I have a love affair with my big bags, though. Most of mine are leather and just beautiful, so it's partly an aesthetic love. I just adore the way they look. Not too stuffed, as others have mentioned, but just the right degree of buttery and slouchy, as I prefer.</p> <p>I use them nowadays mostly for day trips or to the doctor's office. They easily carry my wristlet, glasses, hair brush and whatever tech I want to have at hand: iPad, Kindle, perhaps a paperback. I also like a nice big bag while doing shopping at the mall. I can tuck smaller purchases into my bag (jewelry or cosmetics, for example). When I had young children, I often carried wipes with me and things like that.&nbsp;</p> <p>For my day to day bags, though, I mostly carry middle size shoulder or crossbody bags. I like hands-free. Clutches only suit me on special occasions--and I've been known to stuff those into a big bag also if I'm, say, going out of town to a wedding. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479433 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 11:26:13 +0000 Anonymous 1479433@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Not much help here Rachy as I'm a reformed large bag carrier. I no longer need to schlep a laptop and the durable large bags are heavy. My only exception to the rule is for overseas travel, when I like a bag that will hold all the comforts to get through long flights. Oh yes, and the Dooney &amp; Bourke impulse buy at NAS that I felt I had to justify by using this winter--but only when I was driving someplace. For city walking it's useless. </p> <p>I do like a medium bag though and never fully realized why until I read Louise's point about overstuffed bags. I carry hardly anything in my bag these days but I like knowing there's room for more, and that nothing will tumble out if I'm digging for my keys. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479429 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 10:33:25 +0000 Elizabeth P 1479429@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mine also need to go on my shoulder.&nbsp; Need hands free, for sure.<br />I don't really understand clutches, for that reason... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479423 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 10:01:02 +0000 rachylou 1479423@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am a wimp or something. Because I find all these bags heavy empty. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479418 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:43:50 +0000 Summer 1479418@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I should have added that mine is a shoulder bag. &nbsp;I don't over-stuff it, and don't allow it to get too heavy, but I still have my hands free for those extra bags! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479413 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:37:13 +0000 rachylou 1479413@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A cheapie version is a good idea. Do some test driving. </p> <p>I feel I should try the meeting thing now. I guess I've always felt it was like not taking your coat off when you get to work. Like you don't plan to stay. But then, it's not like I take my coat off at work. Ever. Never worked anywhere warm enough. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479411 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:31:25 +0000 rachylou 1479411@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hmm. Walking around with an emptier bag. I actually was wondering about that, if it would be nicer somehow.</p> <p>And interesting shopping. There's a thought. Taking it to visit the little shops. I don't know how I feel about a larger purse for clothes shopping. Lol. I expect then to be loading up with big shopping bags. Hands too full to purse wrangle... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479409 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:26:14 +0000 Anonymous 1479409@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have bags in all shapes and sizes (and now colors). &nbsp;</p> <p>I love a larger, structured bag and use it to carry stuff to/from work/meetings/conferences. &nbsp;I use it on weekends to tote all sorts of stuff around when I am running errands. &nbsp;</p> <p>I have even been known to use a larger bag as a gym bag. &nbsp;Obviously I don't put my shoes in the bag, but a change of clothes fits quite nicely and is oh so easy. &nbsp;</p> <p>Since I have met very few bags I did not immediately desire, I can offer little advice. &nbsp;Sometimes though when I am experimenting with a new look/item, I buy a cheaper version just to see if it gets used. &nbsp;That frequently gives me the confidence to purchase the one I really want. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479408 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:25:18 +0000 rachylou 1479408@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ok, this is interesting. When I did take a handbag to work I never took it to meetings. Not even when I had to go to another building. Not even when you had to get on a shuttle to get there. Stack and go was my method. No drinks/snacks. No wallet. </p> <p>But now dancing was one reason I stopped. Can't leave an untended bag. Church I feel bad leaving it to get in someone's way. Movies... Don't go to so much anymore. I get antsy sitting in the dark for so long.</p> <p>I carry almost the same as Diane, if you switch doggy bags for tissues and an insulin pen for the comb.</p> <p>But I don't know. I could try seeing movies besides at Christmas (I go then because my brother loves to go). Hahaha. That makes me laugh. I'm never home, but I don't go anywhere... Is this possible? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479407 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:16:50 +0000 Summer 1479407@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Since you're looking for excuses, Rachy, I take my large bag out shopping - the interesting kind, not groceries! &nbsp;I find my smaller, cross-body types too small for stashing glasses, purse/wallet and umbrella plus any smaller purchases I might make. &nbsp;I only have the one, and it was bought a few years ago when larger bags seemed to be trending. &nbsp;It is also in one of my favourite colours, so it was something of an impulse buy, but I've used it over and over, and always look forward to giving it an outing. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479402 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 09:01:04 +0000 Louise 1479402@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'd use that bag for work and shopping because I like the feel of a large bag which is fairly empty rather than a small bag which is so full of stuff I can't find anything. My gym bag is mahoosive and all I carry is my trainers, socks, small sweat towel, water bottle and a cosmetics bag with my padlock, footspray, money etc but I like the way being emptyer means it sits nicely under my arm whereas I've tried a smaller tote and it's so full my arm ends up sticking out! X </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479398 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 08:52:05 +0000 Style Fan 1479398@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am a medium size handbag woman.&nbsp; On a daily basis I use a crossbody bag that I got at a craft show.&nbsp; It is very comfortable and has lots of pockets.&nbsp; I have neck and sometimes shoulders issues so I have to be careful what I carry.&nbsp; I carry my wallet, sunnies, dog bags, dog cookies, phone, various papers (some that need sorting), lipgloss that never seems to make it on my lips, pens, scraps of paper to write on, etc.&nbsp; I should carry reading glasses and driving glasses but I forget.</p> <p>When I go somewhere special (dinner, concert,&nbsp;out in public) I use one of my other bags.&nbsp; They are small to medium or clutches.&nbsp; When I was working I carried a tote bag for my lunch, lap top, etc. I would never put a water bottle in my bag.&nbsp; Too scared of accidents.&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479392 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 08:40:50 +0000 Anonymous 1479392@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't buy big bags either Rach. I like a mid sized grab bag or a cross body style. But then I don't go out to an office to work so no need for lumping a lap top around. All I tend to carry are wallet, phone, comb, tissues, maybe a small water and a lipstick. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479390 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 08:34:43 +0000 Ledonna N. 1479390@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, for a long time 15yrs I was a large handbag lady. The bigger the bag the more I would put into it and the heavier it would become. I would wear the handbag to work, church, dates, movies essentialy everywhere. What I learned is over time I had problems trying to find a place to put it. A big part of it was a lifestyle shift more social activities dancing, walking, moving alot so transporting a large bag was a problem. I needed bags that were hands free. I started to move towards slim dressy backpacks, crossbody, and fannypacks these are my current loves. I have to make myself stay away from large bags because they are so pretty. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479387 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 07:59:59 +0000 Elizabeth P 1479387@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting, I've come to the conclusion this is the only type of bag I should buy, because others are too small and end up closet orphans except for special occasions! </p> <p>On a daily basis I carry my wallet, two pairs of glasses, iPad, phone, and I'm not sure what other crap. I like a bag big enough to put a notebook in if I'm going to a meeting, and don't want to take a separate briefcase. I also like the option to take a water bottle and/or a coffee thermos. sometimes I also have snacks. Sometimes it's fairly empty, but I'm not one to change my purse frequently... I always forget stuff when I do. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/handbag-ladies-where-do-you-take-your-big-bags#post-1479372 Fri, 24 Apr 2015 06:06:40 +0000 rachylou 1479372@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ladies, where do you go with your big handbags? What do you use them for? Is this a rude question?</p> <p>I almost got this bag today, undoing all my work to not buy things I don't use. I didn't because I tried it with the cross-body strap, and that didn't look good on me for some reason. I suppose it was for the best I decided to try the cross-body look, because I would have gotten it if not for that.</p> <p>Still, I'm jonesing to put a satchel on my list. I feel like it would add a certain finishing touch. But the only place I can think to take one is on a train. Or a drive for a stay in the country. Neither of which happen to me anymore - or ever will again. Not shopping or dog walking - too heavy to schelp. Not to the office - a satchel is big, but not big enough for lunch and a laptop. Not out to dinner or lunch - nowhere to eat out like that anymore. I'm not sure I'd even want to take one to a museum.</p> <p>I should just keep satchels off the list, shouldn't I? But where does everyone else go with them? There's got to be one place I go where everyone else goes that could be my excuse...???!!! Lol.</p> <p>But no, I'm serious. </p>