Handbag Glossary

What exactly is raffia? What makes a hobo different from a tote? Discover the answers to these questions and more in our handbag glossary of common purse and handbag terms. Don’t see one you want the definition to? Contact us.



Baguette: A handbag that is long and narrow in shape similar to a French bread loaf.


Barrel: A cylindrical bag that resembles a barrel.


Bucket Bag: Bag that is taller than it is wide with a rounded bottom. Named because they resemble a bucket shape.






Convertible Satchel: A satchel with double handles that can be carried by hand or worn over the shoulder.


Cross Body Bag DefinitionCosmetic Bag: A case or bag designed to hold makeup and other cosmetics and toiletries while traveling.


Cross-Body Bags: Typically smaller in size, these bags are meant to be worn across the body to allow you be hands-free while on the go.




Diaper Bags: Bags that often feature many pockets and compartments designed to carry everything one needs to take care of a baby. Some diaper bags have additional features such as matching changing pads.


Drawstring Handbag: A bag with a string or cord cinch closure.


East West (or E/W): A term to describe a bag that is wider than it is tall.




Embossed: A term used to describe leather or faux-leather with a design imprinted on it. Often exotic skins like croco or snake are actually embossed leather or faux leather.


Definition of EmbossedEnvelope Clutch: A slim, envelope shaped clutch bag.




Fanny Pack (or waist pack): A bag worn on the waist designed to carry small items and daily essentials especially during travel, running sports, and hiking.


Flap Bag: A purse that features a folding flap closure.




Faux Leather: Faux leather refers to materials that look and feel like leather but are actually synthetic. Faux leather materials include vinyl and PVC.


Grommet: A ring inserted into a hole through the material. Small grommets are often called eyelets.


Definition of HoboHobos: Shoulder bags that typically feature a slouchy posture, scooped center, and long shoulder strap.




Junior Handbags: Handbags designed with youthful style often for kids, tweens, and teens.


Leather Handbag: A handbag made from any tanned animal skin. Most often refers to cowhide but can also refer to ostrich, goatskin, and lambskin.


Minaudiere: An evening bag or clutch with a hard case and often covered in beads or crystals.


Microfiber: A synthetic fiber that is woven to have the texture of natural fiber cloth.




North South (or N/S): A term to describe a bag that is taller than it is wide.


Purse HangerOrganizer Bags: Handbags with compartments and pockets for organized storage of makeup, wallets, coin purses, appointment books, and other personal items.


Patent Leather: A glossy finished leather.


Purse Hook or Purse Hanger: A hook-shaped accessory that suspends your handbag from a table to keep it protected from dirty, damage, and theft.


Quilted Handbag: A handbag with material that features a topstitched pattern similar to a quilt.


Raffia: A natural, weavable fiber from palms.


Satchel: A purse that usually has a top closure, top carry handle, and a flat bottom. Satchels may have a triangular side profile.


Shopper: A rectangular bag perfect for shopping.






Definition of Straw BagsStraw Bags: Handbags made from straw and/or grass materials which can include seagrass, rattan, straw, corn husk, raffia, and willow.


Suede: Leather treated to produce a velvet-like finish.






Vegan Handbags: Handbags made entirely from non-animal products.


Wristlet: A clutch or wallet carried on the wrist by a small attached loop.