Bag Style Guide
...the basics of bag shape
Welcome to our bag style lexicon! In this collection, you'll discover the fascinating variety and diverse designs of bags that are not only functional but also stylish. Bags are far more than just practical everyday companions; they are an expression of our personality, our preferences, and our individual style.
From elegant handbags to casual shoulder bags to sturdy backpacks, every bag shape has its own history and purpose. In our glossary, you'll learn everything about the different types of bags, their features, materials, and how they can be used in different life situations.
Whether you're looking for the perfect bag for everyday wear, work, or special occasions, you'll find valuable information and inspiration here. Let the world of bags inspire you and discover how to optimally expand your bag selection to combine style and functionality in your life.
Dive into the world of bag shapes and find out which bag suits you best!

LEATHER TRAVEL BAG
Planning a quick weekend getaway? Then a weekender is perfect. This bag is large enough to store all your essentials, but not too big, so you can easily carry it over your shoulder. It usually has an elongated shape with a sturdy base. This makes it easier to keep things organized inside.
For added portability, almost all come with a carrying strap and sturdy handles. And if you're not planning a trip, the weekender bags can also be used as a great gym bag. The design of these sturdy tote bags is usually sporty, but more and more manufacturers are also using leather, especially for business bags.
Overall, the Weekender belongs to the category of Travel bags. The smallest version is the DAYPACK, followed by the Weekender, and the larger travel bags L or XXL. Depending on your personal needs, the different travel bag sizes are suitable for sports, shorter, or even longer trips.

Handbag in trapeze bag
A bag shape that resurfaced in the fashion world only a few years ago: the trapeze bag. Its clean lines yet still offer enough femininity to make it the perfect all-around accessory for every woman.
This is certainly thanks to designer Phoebe Philo, who interpreted the classic trapeze shape in a more modern and bold way for the French label Céline.
There are many different designs in terms of size, but one thing remains the same: the insert that folds out on the sides, which gives the models their unique shape.
Usually equipped with a handle, it belongs to the category of handbags or tote bags. The trapeze bag typically has no shoulder strap. Our design team always strives to increase functionality and also adds removable shoulder straps.

Shopper handbag
The shopper bag has enjoyed a firm place in women's everyday outfits for many years, and more recently, in men's bags as well. An absolute favorite is the large, spacious bag in either portrait or landscape format.
The shopper, often called a carry-all, is a high-edged bag that can usually be carried as a handle bag with two carrying straps or, depending on the length of the strap, over the shoulders.
Classic shoppers can be opened at the top and closed from the inside with a zipper or snap fastener. We've also created an innovative version with a removable inner bag that securely stores valuables thanks to a zipper.
The shopper is also characterized by its size, making it ideal for excessive shopping sprees, which is where its name “shopper” (derived from the English “shopping”) comes from.

Shoulder bag
The shoulder bag or crossbody bag (bag with a shoulder strap) is one of the oldest forms of bag. The bag is conveniently worn over the shoulder and usually offers ample storage space. A handbag with two handles and a long shoulder strap can also be called a shoulder bag. Shoulder bags that are worn across the body or "crossover" and usually have a shoulder strap are actually called a crossbody bag or crossover bag (see below).
The range of these bags is enormous. They can be found in all shapes, colors, and fabrics. The shoulder bag category essentially includes all bags that can be worn over the shoulder. In a broader sense, messenger bags (usually unisex or for men) or pouch bags can also be considered shoulder bags. However, if you know what you're looking for, it's best to use the more specific term, as shoulder bag is the umbrella term for many subtypes. These bags are extremely versatile, practical, and comfortable, making them the perfect everyday companion.

Hobo Bag
The hobo bag is undoubtedly the queen of shoulder bags. The soft leather, which is usually made from leather, hugs the body, and the longer handle and shoulder strap make it extremely practical. The hobo bag has been a staple in every bag collection for decades. Its generous storage space, although usually lacking in organizational compartments, also makes it ideal for shopping in the city.
Especially since the "back to nature" and boho themes have become perennial trends, this style is more fashionable than ever! For several years now, many labels have taken up this classic and interpreted it as a vintage or retro collection. Whether casual and simple, vintage or elegant – vintage styles are particularly popular with many fashionistas.
The word hobo actually means "migrant worker." This makes sense, since these "hobos" often roamed the country with a bag like this slung over their shoulders, and still do today. Casual—and in soft leather, simply beautiful!

Satchel Bag
The satchel bag is a classic shoulder bag and is characterized by its structured shape. The basic shape is based on a knapsack that was very popular at the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge in Great Britain in the 1950s. With the emergence of the IVY LEAGUE COLLEGE style as a fashion trend, first in the USA and then in Europe, this structured bag became a fashion trend. The eight universities Columbia, Brown, Cornell, Dartmouth College, Harvard, Pennsylvania, Princeton and Yale make up the IVY LEAGUE. The term Ivy League fundamentally stands for academic excellence and an elite social milieu. These associations are still very much used today by major brands (e.g. Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Gap) to sell corresponding college collections.
A satchel bag typically has one or two small handles and a flat bottom. This style of bag comes in a variety of sizes: in the fashion world, women often prefer the smaller version (approximately iPad Mini size), while at college, university, or the office, the DIN A4 size is naturally more common. The larger size is equally popular with women and men.
A proper satchel bag should be made of sturdy saddle leather that also supports its structured shape. We manufacture our satchels under our SID & VAIN brand exclusively from sturdy saddle leather. The pigmentation of the saddle leather also makes the bags less susceptible to rain or snow. You can find the entire SID & VAIN collection here.

Bucket bag
Bucket bags have been experiencing a revival for a few years now. Their bulbous shape allows for plenty of space despite their often smaller overall size. The smaller version is also popular for evening wear or events. While they are usually worn casually, they can also look very classy in leather. Logically, these bags are so valued for their practicality and soft character.
Bucket bags are often made from softer leathers. However, keeping things organized in this type of bag isn't as easy, as they usually don't have a solid bottom or many compartments. However, we usually equip these bags with at least one or two small compartments, some with zippers, to protect valuables or cell phones.
A typical feature of bucket bags, which usually also have a shoulder strap, is the bag's closure with two drawstrings that are pulled together at the waist (drawstring bag). We offer bucket bags with a fixed long strap and also with a detachable long strap, so you can choose whether you want to carry the bag over the shoulder, over the shoulder, or in your hand.

shoulder bag (cross-body bag)
Shoulder bags, of course, are explained in their name and are worn across the torso. Their most famous example, at least for men, is the messenger bag (see below). While men particularly love the rustic look of a crossbody strap made of leather, nylon, or canvas, women often prefer thin chains or straps that don't visually "disrupt" an outfit, like a nice blouse.
For the same reason, many women also prefer classic shoulder bags or, at most, smaller, lighter crossbody bags. Of course, women also use messenger bags and larger crossbody bags, but these are usually less about making a fashion statement and more about casually carrying documents.
The smaller versions of the shoulder bag can be the perfect companion for any occasion, from fashionable and elegant to casual and adventure. Smaller shoulder bags can also be a clutch (see below) for the theater or a gala dinner, a beautiful leather bag for a quick trip downtown, or a useful and casual bag for carrying your wallet and phone at a festival, party, or concert.

Backpack
The ubiquitous and practical backpack has its origins in the mountains. Archaeological finds prove that the precursor, also known as a backpack, existed as early as 3000 BC. For many decades, the backpack has been a standard military uniform for soldiers due to its high functionality. For many years, the backpack, especially the leather one, was considered a fashion no-go. Now it's back and trendier than ever – the backpack .
For a few years now, this trendy shape has been redefined by hipsters, fashionistas, and bloggers on the streets all over the world. Finally, this highly practical shape has become fashionable again in our everyday lives and is also in demand as a high-quality leather bag.
Whether small and simple or large and eye-catching, vintage models are particularly popular with many fashionistas. As the name suggests, the bag is worn on the back with two shoulder straps, making it one of the most back-friendly companions.

Leather messenger bag
A messenger bag is the number one shoulder bag for boys and real men. The messenger bag is the epitome of casual shoulder bags, and its classic shape is immediately recognizable by its shoulder strap, vertical format, and size, which easily fits A4 documents. While it's not the number one choice for women, many young women also carry a messenger bag because its casual, cool look and carrying strap perfectly combine style and function. Nowadays, this type of bag is indispensable, especially at school, university, and leisure.
The term "messenger bag" originates from the first mounted couriers in the USA, who often experienced adventurous and dangerous rides and needed to have both hands free. Classic messenger bags are made of leather or canvas with leather for added stability. Because of the courier history, the bag is also often called a messenger bag. Today's couriers, at least bicycle couriers in big cities who often just barely zip between cars, usually use backpacks to avoid getting caught on the side of cars. However, you should have enough space for this shoulder bag on the sidewalk.
But the messenger bag has more than just practical uses: This sporty bag usually has a flap to close the main compartment. This bag is all about casual style and organization.
Built-in compartments and dividers for laptops and tablets not only provide storage space, but also simplify chaotic leisure and student life in general. Due to the success of the classic messenger bag, this bag concept is available in every conceivable format, especially vertically ("Post Bag," "City Bag," or simply "Messenger Bag North South") is still a popular format.

Tote bag
A typical distinguishing feature of tote bags is the shorter handles for carrying the bag. This everyday bag often has two handles and is sometimes even simply called a tote bag. The tote bag belongs to the handbag category and represents its most classic form.
This very popular bag shape is carried in the hand or in the crook of the arm. Practical versions with longer handles can be comfortably worn over the shoulder. Tote bags have a clearly structured shape and a very ladylike appearance.
The most famous model of this bag shape is the Kelly Bag (1956, Grace Kelly) by Hermès. However, this bag shape is probably one of the oldest and has been worn, especially by women, for many centuries.

Clutch
A clutch , formerly often called an underarm bag, refers to a bag that you can grasp in your hand. The term comes from the English verb "to clutch," which means something like "to clasp." It doesn't really matter whether the bag is for an elegant evening or for a trip to a café in town. It's usually a companion for the evening, because that's exactly when you need such a small, compact bag to complement your outfit.
However, it should be distinguished from an evening bag , as depending on the clutch design, you can also combine it for other occasions, and evening bags also come in other shapes. Whether "glam" or classic, the clutch is wonderfully feminine and therefore a must-have in any bag collection. However, the small size sometimes becomes a problem, which is why we should limit ourselves to the bare essentials. One advantage: nothing gets lost in clutch bags. We can even use these all-rounders during the day: for example, as an inside pocket for the main bag, in which we can store makeup, keys, cell phone, etc.
For some of our clutch models, we've also added a thin, usually removable shoulder strap so you can have both hands free in the evening. Who knows – a Hugo, Prosecco or vodka and lemonade, a cell phone, a spontaneous shopping trip, or perhaps a lover in your other hand?

laptop bag
In addition to the briefcase, there's also the specialist for electronic gadgets: the laptop bag. my-BagFactory offers various styles for all common technical devices, including your iPad or tablet. Unlike briefcases, laptop bags come in many shapes and styles. A laptop bag can also be visually designed as a messenger bag, courier bag, or college bag.
The various sizes of laptop bags are suitable for all portable computers up to 10 inches, 11 inches, 13 inches, 15.5 inches, and even 17 inches. In addition to technical devices, laptop bags can also conveniently transport documents and other items. Laptop bags usually have a shoulder strap, rather than the handle that's so typical of briefcases. A subtype of laptop bag is the laptop sleeve, which has no straps or shoulder straps and can be carried more like an underarm bag or document folder. The main function of a laptop sleeve is certainly to provide stylish protection for your device.
A very popular model with a casual design is the "Leandro" laptop bag from theBACCINI brand series. Featuring two short handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, a removable laptop compartment, and zippered exterior pockets, this bag is crafted from high-quality vintage leather and offers stylish and reliable storage for your latest technology. It's also available as a spacious business bag with three interior compartments for larger notebooks.

Baguette bag (clutch)
Baguette bags are characterized primarily by their elongated shape (reminiscent of a baguette). Many versions are available, with medium-length handles, shoulder straps, or clutches . They are characterized by their elongated and rather narrow shape. Some versions are tubular in shape, while others merely hint at the baguette and are not quite as narrow.
This bag shape was an absolute must-have in the '90s and was celebrated by all the major bag labels. It has now been somewhat displaced by the newer fashion trend of the box-shaped mini bag. We also enjoy creating bags in this shape to offer elegant evening bags or cosmetic bags .
A strap, which, depending on the length, allows the bag to be worn on the wrist or over the shoulder, is another distinguishing feature of the bag.

bum bag (hip bag)
Even though the fanny pack has completely disappeared from the fashion world and has only been found among artisans in recent decades, there are clear signs of a small revival. The fanny pack (sometimes called a hip bag) keeps appearing at fashion shows in New York, London, and Berlin.
Understandably, the hip bag is met with disapproval by many fashionistas, as it looks rather unflattering on the stomach. Furthermore, the bag is still associated with the typical tourist or motivated hobbyist.
However, we see the hip bag not just as a fashionable gimmick, but as a practical companion as a festival bag, bag for concerts, or other events. In these cases, a backpack would often be too big and take up too much space, a clutch would simply be too impractical, and a smaller bag in the belt area – a hip bag is simply perfect!

briefcase
Our briefcases are the all-rounders in the bag category. Perfectly tailored to the needs of students and professionals, the briefcase, or work bag – business bag – is a true space miracle with a wide range of possibilities.
A traditional briefcase has a handle and storage space for documents—files, in other words, and writing utensils. Since technological devices, whether PC laptops, MacBooks, or tablets like the iPad, have become increasingly common in work, university, and even school, modern briefcases also offer space, compartments, and protection for these tech gadgets. To take advantage of the benefits of messenger bags, our briefcases usually also have a removable shoulder strap.
At myBagFactory , you can choose from fashionable, timelessly elegant, and sporty designs. The larger models feature compartments for pens, cell phones, and space for a laptop and A4 documents, as well as room for folders of various sizes. This is especially practical for students, lawyers, teachers, professors, and anyone else who, even in modern times, often carries a lot of documents in their briefcase.
The business bags from the FEYNSINN and FERGÉ collections, with their elegant style, are discreetly sophisticated companions, ideal for work and office life. Briefcases with a more casual and less formal cut are perfect as college bags or university bags. Our college bags from the SID & VAIN collection are therefore very popular on campus. On campus, a briefcase can sometimes look like a British satchel.