Purses and handbags are not the same thing, although people use them in similar ways. Here are some of the major areas in which these two types of accessories differ.
SIZE
A purse is much smaller than a handbag. A purse is a compact bag that holds essential items, such as wallets, keys and makeup. People often use purses when they need to carry minimal items or travel light.
By comparison, handbags are larger and more spacious. They offer ample room for carrying larger personal belongings, such as tablets, books or even a change of clothes. The larger size makes a handbag ideal for everyday use or whenever you need to carry more items with you.
FUNCTIONALITY
Purses are for more formal occasions. Since they’re relatively smaller in comparison to handbags, they’re more appropriate for formal events or other occasions when you need to carry just a few essentials.
Compare this to handbags, which typically feature multiple compartments, allowing for better organization of your belongings. Some can even accommodate laptops, books and tablets, making them particularly well suited for travel or long days you have to spend running around town.
CARRYING STYLE
Purses tend to be more handheld accessories. You hold a purse either in your hand or over your shoulder with the help of a small strap or chain. On the other side of things, handbags usually come with longer straps or handles, enabling you to carry them as shoulder bags or across your body.
STYLING & AESTHETICS
Purses are usually more formal, whereas handbags can range from casual to formal. There are dozens of types of handbags to choose from, like crossbody bags, shoulder bags, fanny packs and totes. However, this is not the case with purses, which tend to offer less variety.
Purses often feature sleek designs and luxurious materials, such as full-grain leather or satin. Handbags, meanwhile, come in a wider variety of styles, colors and materials. You can style them for all occasions, making them a popular choice among fashionistas who want to showcase their self-expression and personal style through their accessories.
TERMINOLOGY
In some countries, the term "purse" refers to a small handbag, while in others, it refers specifically to a wallet or coin purse. While purses and handbags mainly differ in terms of size and functionality, it is important to note that cultural and regional variations may also influence how people use the terms.