Bags of character

So over the years I've noticed a number of fashion features which explain how the way you hold your bag says a lot about your personality. For example. according to an article by body language expert Kathlyn Hendricks in Glamour magazine, a bag worn on the crook of the elbow is an indicator of status and power, whilst one worn over the shoulder and close to the body is a sign of a practical and driven nature.

Who knew? Certainly not me. Also surely I'm not the only one who alters the way they hold their bag as and when they walk......?

It got me thinking, though, that the type of bag you choose may indeed be a sign of who you are and the lifestyle you lead. I have some friends who will never, ever wear a handbag, instead opting for a sling over, whilst others love the extra baggage on their arm (if you don't mind the pun).

With that in mind, let the bag match the girl.

Best for...the Fuss Free girl.

Who?
- The wash and go type
- Always moving/walking/running places
- Prefers to travel lightly

Bag?
The sling-over bag.

Calvin Klein, £85

Best for...the Party girl.

Who? 

- Often at drinks/dinner/clubs

- Make-up and mirror are two essentials 

- Wants outfit to do the talking 

Bag? 

The neat clutch.

Accessorize, £25

Best for...the Travel and Explore girl.

Who?
- Weekends are filled with visiting places
- Priorities = practicalities (water, map etc)
- Not interested in making a statement

Bag?
The backpack.

Anna Field, £25

Best for...the Mary Poppins girl.

Who?
- The 'I best pack that too' type
- Likes to be prepared for anything
- Size and weight not an issue

Bag? 
The oversized bucket bag.

Furla, £235

Best for...the Festival girl.

Who? 

- Always at festivals, gigs, open mics

- Happy to rough out whenever

- Denim shorts are a favourite

Bag? 
The so-called 'Bum' bag.

Kipling Presto, £49

Found your match? If not, chances are you are a mix of a few of these. (I'm definitely both a Party girl and Mary Poppins girl at heart).

Oh well, if there was ever an excuse to buy more than one bag....

My favourites: the summer blouse

Summer blouses are so chic. They can be worn with shorts, skirts or jeans. As well as being versatile, they instantly lift an outfit due to their laid back, but pretty, appeal. Wear them to a garden party, dinner with friends or simply out and about in the day. Long sleeves mean you don't have to worry about that extra layer in the summer months, whilst the sheer fabric means you still stay cool.

Here are my favourites.....

1. The Layered One 

Crimson Cotton Floral Charlotte Blouse, £190, Ulla Johnson

2. The Elegant One

See by Chloe, £275, available from Harrods

3. The Floral One

Somerset by Alice Temperley Vintage Floral Blouse, £69, available from John Lewis

4. The Silky One 

Silk blouse, Mango, £49.99

5. The Yellow One

Blouse, Massimo Rebecchi, £84