DESIGN
This or That: Slouchy vs. Structured Silhouettes
Compare the two opposing bag styles before choosing the one that speaks to you.
- Silhouette is one of the most important style considerations to make before setting out to find your dream bag.
- There are two main categories: slouchy and structured.
- Here’s what you should consider about each style, with product recommendations for both.
The bag you carry with you every day should serve as an extension of who you are through its overall design—think color, material and hardware. But one of the most overlooked style features that speak to personality is silhouette, or the overall outline or profile of a bag.
While handbags of course come in a range of different shapes, they’re typically bucketed into two silhouette categories: slouchy and structured. And when setting out to find the one, it can be difficult to decipher which of the two is better for you and your everyday lifestyle.
Here’s what to consider about both bag styles before making the final decision—plus product recommendations for each.
Slouchy Silhouettes
While there’s no one single bag structure for every personality, certain silhouettes still speak to overall vibe and personal style. For example, relaxed, slouchy bags that move with you lend a more laissez-faire touch to your look.
If you’re always on the move, an expandable carryall with a more relaxed structure like the Brooklyn or Soft Empire will hold everything together without sacrificing style. These slouchy styles often take on the role of a grab-and-go bag—they’re comfortable to carry, effortlessly stylish and spacious enough to hold more and more as the day rolls along.
Best For: Someone who’s always on the go—from early classes to late night study sessions to trips across campus.
Style Picks: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 34, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39, Soft Empire Carryall Bag 28
If you’re always on the move, an expandable carryall with a more relaxed structure like the Brooklyn or Soft Empire will hold everything together without sacrificing style. These slouchy styles often take on the role of a grab-and-go bag—they’re comfortable to carry, effortlessly stylish and spacious enough to hold more and more as the day rolls along.
Best For: Someone who’s always on the go—from early classes to late night study sessions to trips across campus.
Style Picks: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 34, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39, Soft Empire Carryall Bag 28
Structured Silhouettes
Architectural in nature, structured bags retain their shape while projecting more of a polished, refined look. If you consider yourself a minimalist, typically carrying only the absolute essentials, a compact shoulder bag with more of a defined shape might do the trick.
The Tabby, for example, features a structured silhouette—its clean lines allow the luxury craftsmanship to shine, balancing minimalist design with statement worthy style for an iconic plus-one that seamlessly fits into any wardrobe. While certainly capable of being dressed up for formal events like prom or graduation, structured bags like the Tabby are also perfect for nights out with friends or daily coffee runs.
Best For: Elevating any style—from your go-to pair of jeans to your most formal pantsuit—for a put together look.
Style Picks: Tabby Shoulder Bag 20, Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
The Tabby, for example, features a structured silhouette—its clean lines allow the luxury craftsmanship to shine, balancing minimalist design with statement worthy style for an iconic plus-one that seamlessly fits into any wardrobe. While certainly capable of being dressed up for formal events like prom or graduation, structured bags like the Tabby are also perfect for nights out with friends or daily coffee runs.
Best For: Elevating any style—from your go-to pair of jeans to your most formal pantsuit—for a put together look.
Style Picks: Tabby Shoulder Bag 20, Tabby Shoulder Bag 26
Discover even more styles you’ll love.
FAQs: You asked. We’ve answered.
What bag silhouette is best for a casual day out?
What bag silhouette is best for a casual day out?
A casual day out running errands often leads to at least a few spontaneous pitstops. Choose a relaxed silhouette like the Brooklyn bag for an expandable style that effortlessly handles everything the day throws your way.
What bag silhouette is best for formal events?
What bag silhouette is best for formal events?
Whether dressing up in your most sophisticated pantsuit or showcasing your most formal gown, the right bag silhouette should complement your personal style as well as the occasion. For a polished, refined vibe, try a structured silhouette that holds its shape like the Tabby bag.
What bag silhouette transitions best from a daytime look to an evening event?
What bag silhouette transitions best from a daytime look to an evening event?
From morning coffee runs to midday meetings to evening events, hybrid silhouettes strike the perfect balance between structured form and rounded edges. Pair a hybrid silhouette with cozy sweater and loafers for a laid-back lunch with friends or style it with a sophisticated pantsuit and heels for a formal evening out.