Handbag Terms and Slang Can Be Difficult to Understand
Handbags come in many shapes and sizes, all named according to their particular variation. However, the wide variety of the handbag types offered in today’s market may provide confusion for the average purse buyer. For example, can you differentiate the definition of a tote versus a hobo, duffel versus a demi or a bowler versus a bucket bag? Terms such as these are most often cited in the names or titles of popular handbags, which have become increasingly technical in recent years. This increased technicality is likely a result of the spread of designer fashion styles to the masses. The internet and rise of fast fashion retailers are catalysts to this change, as they help to disseminate designer fashion ideologies; principles which used to be relevant only for the more privileged set.
It is important for handbag consumers to gain some understanding of these technical terms, as this is sure to make finding one’s perfect accessory a more attainable feat. Are you in the market for a large handbag with roomy compartments? With terms such as tote, hobo or bucket, one can more quickly and easily find their desired purse, as their search is more directed. Are you going to a fancy event? You’ll need to keep the words baguette, clutch and minaudiere in mind when searching for your evening accessory.
Knowledge of material treatment terms are also important to one’s handbag search. Examples of these include embossed, a designed imprinted into leather or synthetic leather most often simulating an animal skin; croc, an embossed pattern simulating the skin of a crocodile; and antiqued, a type of surface treatment that has a rubbed-off, worn appearance.