Ah, the handbag. A woman’s best friend? A bottomless pit for lipsticks and receipts? Both? Absolutely! But with so many shapes and sizes out there, choosing the perfect purse can feel like navigating a fashion labyrinth guarded by judgmental squirrels (seriously, those little guys have impeccable taste).
First Stop: The Glorious Grab Bag of Styles
Totes: Imagine a giant Ghana weaving bag that can swallow a small goat. That’s a tote! Perfect for everything from owambe parties (big celebrations) to emergency asoebi (uniform cloth) changes (because Aunty Beatrice will call you last minute, bless her heart). Just remember, to avoid looking like you’re about to move house, choose a tote with compartments.
Clutches: These are the special occasion kind of bag, perfect for weddings, swanky shindigs, or bribing your way past iya Ibadan selling groundnuts at the market (don’t underestimate the power of a clutch full of fives!). But be warned, these ain’t exactly built for practicality. Unless you have the reflexes of a Lagos bus driver dodging potholes, a clutch means mastering the art of the underarm phone tuck to avoid a dramatic purse-to-smartphone faceplant.
Satchels: The serious business kind of bag, satchels are like the professors of the handbag world. Perfect for work or school, they add some extra oomph to your outfit. Just remember, overstuffing one is a recipe for looking like a pepper seller at Mile 12 market – all bulging and sweaty. Not the vibe, darling.
Backpack Purses: Remember those cool pikin (children) with the epic cartoon backpacks? Well, guess what? They were onto something! Backpack purses are comfy, convenient, and perfect for carrying everything from your day planner to enough plantains to feed a small village (because you never know when a hunger strike might hit). Just avoid looking like you’re about to climb Kilimanjaro – a sleek design is key.
Material Matters: From Aso Oke to Anything That Shines
- Leather: The classic choice, leather is durable and stylish, but can cost more than a bag of ogbono (soup ingredient). Plus, some purses weigh more than a full pot of jollof rice – consider your arm strength, sistas
- Ankara Fabric: Bold, beautiful, and perfect for showing off your Nigerian pride. Just be prepared for the inevitable compliments (and maybe a little fashion envy from your cousin Ngozi).
- Faux Leather: A fantastic option that looks almost as good as the real deal, and won’t break the bank. Perfect for rocking that Lagos hustle style!
- Anything That Shines (Sequins, rhinestones, the actual sun?): Go for it! We Nigerians love a little bit of bling. Just remember, with great handbag power comes great responsibility. Avoid accidentally blinding someone with your purse disco ball – we don’t need any drama at the next owambe.
Finding Your Perfect Match: Handbags and Body Types
- Petite: Avoid giant bags that will make you look like you’re being swallowed whole. Opt for cute cross-body bags or clutches that hit at your waist.
- Tall and statuesque: You can pretty much rock anything, lucky you! But a statement tote or satchel can add some extra va-va-voom to your silhouette.
- Curvy: Go for bags with softer shapes that complement your figure. A hobo bag or a bucket bag can be super flattering.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose a bag that makes YOU feel like a million naira (Nigerian currency). Love leopard print? Find a spotted tote! Secretly obsessed with unicorns? Find a sequined clutch shaped like one (because why not?).