What’s the difference between handbag and shoulder bag?

Handbags and shoulder bags, despite serving the same purpose of carrying personal belongings, are distinct in their manner of being carried.

• Handbag – A handbag is a handheld or arm-carried bag. It usually has short straps or handles, making it unsuitable for shoulder wear. Handbags range in size and design, from petite clutches to capacious totes.
• Shoulder Bag – A shoulder bag is a bag meant to be carried over the shoulder. It usually has longer straps or handles for comfortable shoulder wear. Shoulder bags come in various sizes and styles, including compact crossbody bags and roomy hobo bags.

To sum up, the key distinction between a handbag and a shoulder bag revolves around how they’re carried. Handbags are designed to be held in the hand or cradled in the arm’s crook, whereas shoulder bags are slung over the shoulder. While both types fulfill similar purposes, they appeal to different preferences regarding carrying style and comfort.