There are many different types of ladies handbags. Following is a concise list of different types of handbags:
Tote handbag - medium to large handbag with two straps having an open top and open main compartment.
Barrel handbags - shaped like a barrel or closed tube, usually with shoulder-length straps
Shopper handbag - A rectangular handbag perfect for shopping
Drawstring handbag - a purse that closes with a drawstring at the top, may have wrist- or shoulder-length straps, popular as an evening bag style.
Duffel handbag - A cylindrical canvas bag carried over the shoulder.
Kiondo bag - a handwoven handbag made from sisal with leather trimmings. It is indigenous to Kenya
Hobo handbag - a large crescent-shaped shoulder handbag. Shoulder bags that typically feature a slouchy posture, scooped center, and long shoulder strap.
Satchel handbag - A structured handbag with double handles, locking hardware and a wide, flat bottom. Satchels may have a triangular side profile.
Bucket handbag - Bag that is taller than it is wide with a rounded bottom. Usually has an open top and shoulder strap.
Beach handbag - A large handbag, sometimes of canvas, used to carry personal items, as a bathing suit, towel, and suntan lotion, to and from a beach
Bowling handbag- A round, medium to large handbag with a shape that resembles a bowling ball.
Backpack - Backpacks are supported on either one or both shoulders. A slightly larger handbag designed to be worn on the back like a backpack.
Coin Purse - Sometimes known as a change purses. A coin purse is a small bag designed to hold coins and other small items.
Wristlet - a clutch shaped handbag with an attached leather or bracelet-looking strap allowing you to hold your bag and dance freely.
Baguette handbag - A purse that is relatively long from side to side and small from top to bottom - basically a little like a baguette with a handle.
Clutch handbag - Small but long rectangular handbag without a handle. You have to clutch it - hence the name.
Cosmetic case - bags of varying sizes and shapes with a zip closure lined to hold cosmetics.
Envelope handbag - a flat, square or rectangular bag with a triangle-shaped top flap that folds over like an envelope.
Fold over clutch - a clutch with or without a handle that can be tucked or folded.
Messenger handbag - A bag with a long strap to be worn across the body that winds around the chest resting the bag on the lower back.
Minaudiere handbags - a small evening bag embezzled with pieces of metal, semi precious stones or beads or covered with fabric or leather.
Muff - a winter bag made of real or faux fur, wool or velvet that has zippered compartments and a slip opening for your hands.
Saddle handbag - a large bag (or pair of bags) hung over a saddle.
Shoulder handbag - any handbag with a shoulder strap.
Sling handbag - A bag with a long strap (similar to a messenger bag), yet smaller.