How to Find Your Perfect Bag Silhouette

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When setting out on a quest to find your dream bag, considerations like color, material or even hardware are often the obvious choices. But if you've ever wondered, What's the true secret to the perfect bag? We've got you covered: it's in the shape.

From the iconic lines of the Tabby to the effortless slouch of the Brooklyn bag, each silhouette is designed to complement your style (and life)—not complicate it. And finding the right shape for you isn't just about what's trending; it's really about discovering the bag that fits into your routine, balances the proportions of your look, and sets the tone for any personality or mood. Here's how to find the right bag silhouette for you.

1. Look At Your Current (or Aspirational) Lifestyle

Your go-to bag isn't just an accessory—it's kind of like your companion in style. With that said, how you go about your day should be a top factor to consider. To ensure the longevity of your purchase, you'll want to think about your daily routines in the upcoming months or years, too.

-Are you always on the move? If your schedule tends to be booked with a variety of different activities and no stops home between sunup and sundown, try an expandable carryall like the Soft Empire. A roomy shoulder bag—like the Brooklyn—will also hold everything together without sacrificing style.

-Are you a minimalist? For those who only like carrying the absolute essentials, a more compact shoulder bag, like the Tabby, might do the trick.

2. Consider Proportions

The best bags balance out your look without overpowering it—and align to your height so that they fit against your body where they can be worn most comfortably. From strap length to the way top-handles fit in the crook of your arm—sometimes, it's the more subtle nuances that make all the difference in creating visual harmony.

For larger bags, we typically recommend finding a style that hits at or just above the hip or waist for easy access and less bulk. Smaller-sized shoulder bags tend to look best sitting between your waist and shoulder. When it comes to height, those on the shorter side may prefer more compact styles that also have a shorter handle drop, or bags with an adjustable strap. If you're tall, you may find it comfortable to carry roomier silhouettes, or those with a longer strap, as long as they're not swinging so low that they hit your legs as you walk.

And, don't worry—your height doesn't dictate whether you can wear a certain bag style or not. Some of our most beloved bag shapes are part of the same family, featuring the same overall silhouette but in different sizes or strap lengths.