Our foolproof guide to handbag terminology

The backpack

Choose luxe fabrics for a grown-up feel. Leather ponyhair backpack, $79, Topshop. 

The bowler

Inspired by classic bowling bags, you can tell a bowler by its rectangular shape and rounded edges. Marlow woodland green, $60, Sole Society. 

The bucket

A.k.a.: the bag of the year. Bucket bag, $545, Mansur Gavriel. 

The canteen

Add some shape to your outfit with this circular purse. Croc effect bag, $50, Mango. 

The clutch

Tuck under your arm for a perfect for a night out. Clutch bag, $35, H&M. 

The cross-body

Small bags are great when you’re a busy woman. Calisch cross body bag, $275, Aritzia. 

The doctor

The doctor is in. (The bag that is.) Canvas chic structured tote, $80, Dailylook.

The envelope

Folded at all the right angles. MILCK clutch, $380, Ela. 

The frame

Look for angular and geometric openings. This particular model doubles as a backpack. Chanda macaroon $130, Matt & Nat. 

The fanny pack

This tricky ’90s trend was all over the runways this season. Northseven fanny pack, $98, Kelsi Dagger. 

The hobo

The relaxed silhouette of this slouchy handbag will suit your everyday needs. Selma hobo bag, $200, Anthropologie. 

The messenger

A stylish way to carry your laptop. Complete with a handy fold-over flap. Transit messenger, $198, Kelsi Dagger. 

The miniaudiere

The hardshell and metal fastener can take your outfit from day to night. Half moon box clutch blue, $34, MissGuided. 

The pouch

Holds all of your essentials and can easily fit inside of a bigger bag. Urban renewal remade calf hair pouch, $94, Urban Outfitters. 

The saddle

Look for western-inspired details in this U-shaped sack. Ultimate saddle bag, $57, Asos. 

The satchel

Two buckles make this signature style. Classic satchel, $155, Cambridge Satchel. 

The tote

The large, unsealed bag allows for easy access. The transport tote, $232, Madewell. 

The trapeze

Look for a top-handle bag with triangular sides. Combined city bag with buckle, $60, Zara. 

The weekend

A stylish pick for a weekend getaway. The transport weekender, $412, Madewell. 

The wristlet

This evening bag easily holds your keys, makeup and phone. Fringed leather clutch, $46, Zara. 

Related:
20 backpacks chic enough for grown-ups
15 ways to rock the leather look for less
Fall accessories under $100