Wednesday, December 26th, 2007

“Get my uh… Get my… umm… Nevermind I’ll get it!”

If you’re like most people you probably don’t know what your handbag is called. So which is it? A clutch, a hobo, or a tote? Many people do not know the difference and end up just saying something along the lines of “that bag” or “my purse”. If you are guilty of this, don’t worry. Here is the unspoken handbag naming guide:

First off, it depends what part of the English speaking world you are from. In American English, a purse is usually a small bag, also called a handbag or a pocketbook.

In British English, a purse is usually a small money container similar to a wallet, but typically used by women and including a compartment for coins, with a handbag being considerably larger.

A Coin purse is usually a small purses, just large enough to hold money and cards.

A clutch is usually a medium-to-small-sized purse with a short handle, designed to be carried (clutched) in one’s hand. However in British English it usually means a small evening bag without a handle.

A Tote is usually a medium-to-large-sized purse with two handles or straps.

A pocketbook is similar to a purse (in the British English sense), but allows the carrying of sheets of paper as well.

A Satchel is usually a large bag with small handle that is carried on the arm rather than on the shoulder.

A Duffle is usally a large bag usually used for travel or sports.

A Messenger bag is usually A bag with a long strap to be worn across the body.

A Hobo is usually a single short handle or strap bag.