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Ever wondered about the true dimensions of your favorite handbag? Perhaps you’re shopping online and the listed measurements seem… ambiguous. Or maybe you’re trying to determine if your prized possession meets airline carry-on restrictions. Knowing how to accurately measure a purse is a valuable skill, eliminating guesswork and ensuring you always choose the perfect size for your needs. Surprisingly, there’s more to it than just grabbing a ruler. From understanding industry standards to mastering the art of measuring curved surfaces, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently assess any purse, ensuring a perfect fit for your lifestyle and avoiding any unexpected size-related surprises. So, grab your measuring tape and let’s delve into the precise art of purse measurement.
Firstly, gather your tools. You’ll need a flexible measuring tape, preferably one made of fabric or soft plastic, as it can easily conform to curved surfaces. Additionally, a notepad and pen or a digital note-taking device will be helpful for recording your measurements. Now, let’s discuss the key dimensions: height, width, and depth. The height is measured from the highest point of the bag, excluding the handles or straps, to the bottom seam. Consequently, be sure not to include any decorative elements in this measurement. Next, the width is the measurement across the widest part of the bag, typically taken at the base or the middle section. Furthermore, the depth refers to the thickness of the bag, measured from the front to the back at its widest point. Importantly, it’s crucial to remember that these measurements can vary depending on the manufacturer. Therefore, always refer to the specific brand’s guidelines when available. Finally, don’t forget to measure the strap or handle drop, which is the distance from the top center of the bag to the highest point of the strap or handle. This measurement is particularly important when considering comfort and how the bag will hang on your shoulder or in your hand.
Beyond the basic dimensions, there are additional measurements to consider depending on the style of the purse. For instance, with structured bags, measuring the base length and width can provide a clearer picture of its overall size. Similarly, for hobo bags or other slouchy styles, measuring the circumference at the widest point can be more informative than a traditional width measurement. Moreover, when measuring bags with exterior pockets, consider whether the pocket’s size is included in the overall dimensions provided by the manufacturer. This is especially important if you plan to use those pockets frequently. In conclusion, accurately measuring a purse involves more than just knowing length, width, and depth. By understanding the nuances of different bag styles and utilizing a systematic approach, you can confidently assess any purse and ensure it perfectly matches your needs and preferences. Armed with this knowledge, you can navigate online shopping with ease and make informed decisions about your next handbag purchase, avoiding any sizing disappointments. So, the next time you’re admiring a new purse, take the time to measure it accurately, ensuring a perfect fit for your style and lifestyle.
Gathering Your Measuring Tools: What You’ll Need
Getting ready to measure your purse is a breeze! It’s like gathering ingredients for a simple recipe. You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment, just a few common household items will do the trick.
What You’ll Need
Let’s gather our tools. Don’t worry, you probably already have these lying around the house. We’ll be using a flexible measuring tape—the kind used for sewing—for most of our measurements. This allows us to easily follow the curves of the bag, ensuring accurate dimensions. If you don’t have a flexible tape measure, a ruler and a piece of string will work just fine. You’ll use the string to follow the contours of the bag and then measure the string against the ruler. A pen or pencil and a notepad or piece of paper are handy for jotting down the measurements as you go. Trust me, you’ll want to write them down! It’s easy to forget a number, especially if you’re measuring multiple bags. Finally, it’s helpful to have a flat surface to work on, like a table or a cleared-off countertop. This gives you a stable base and makes it easier to get precise measurements.
Understanding Your Measuring Tools in Detail
Let’s dive a bit deeper into each of our tools and why they’re important for accurate purse measuring. First up is our star player, the flexible measuring tape. Its flexibility is key because purses, unlike boxes, rarely have perfectly straight lines. The tape conforms to the bag’s shape, letting us capture the true length, width, and depth. Look for a measuring tape with clear markings in both inches and centimeters. This gives you flexibility and allows you to record measurements in your preferred units. Now, let’s talk about the ruler-and-string duo. This combination is a great alternative if you don’t have a flexible tape measure. The string mimics the flexibility of the tape, and the ruler provides the accurate measurement. When using this method, be sure to hold the string taut against the bag as you trace its curves. Then, lay the string straight against the ruler to get your measurement. Any slack in the string will lead to an inaccurate reading. Your pen and paper are your record keepers. As you take each measurement, write it down immediately next to the corresponding dimension (length, width, depth, strap drop, etc.). This prevents mix-ups and ensures you have a reliable record of your bag’s size. Lastly, a flat and stable surface is crucial. It prevents the bag from shifting or slumping while you’re measuring, which helps you obtain consistent and precise readings. Think of it as providing a neutral playing field for your measuring endeavors. Having a dedicated space also helps you stay organized and keeps your measuring tools within easy reach.
| Tool | Purpose | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible Measuring Tape | Accurately measure curved surfaces | String and Ruler |
| Ruler | Measure straight lines (in conjunction with string) | - |
| String | Trace curved lines for measurement | - |
| Pen/Pencil and Notepad/Paper | Record measurements | Phone/Computer (note-taking app) |
| Flat Surface | Provide stable base for measuring | - |
Measuring the Width: Finding the Widest Point
Getting the width right is key when you’re measuring a purse. Think of it like finding the perfect pair of shoes – too narrow and things get cramped, too wide and they just feel sloppy. With purses, the width measurement helps you understand how much it can hold and how it will look carried on your shoulder or in your hand.
Finding the Widest Point
Okay, so “widest point” might sound simple, but there’s a little nuance to it. Imagine a classic tote bag. It might taper a bit at the bottom, but the widest point is likely going to be across the top opening. Now, think about a hobo bag – its widest point might be somewhere in the middle, where it puffs out the most. That’s the spot you’re looking for: the absolute widest horizontal measurement. Don’t flatten or squish the bag to artificially create a wider measurement, let it sit naturally as if it’s full of your everyday essentials.
Using a Tape Measure
Grab a flexible tape measure, the kind used for sewing or tailoring. These are perfect because they can easily conform to the curves of a purse. Lay your purse down on a flat surface, making sure it’s not bent or folded in a way that distorts its natural shape. Locate the widest point visually – remember, this might be at the top, middle, or even near the bottom depending on the style. Extend your tape measure across this widest point horizontally. Make sure the tape measure is taut but not stretching the material. Take note of the measurement and jot it down.
If You Don’t Have a Tape Measure
No tape measure? No problem! You can use a piece of string or yarn and then measure the string against a ruler. Just like with the tape measure, hold the string taut across the widest part of the bag and mark the length on the string. Then, lay the string along a ruler to get your measurement. This method might be a tiny bit less precise, but it’ll give you a good ballpark figure. Another alternative, if you have something handy like a standard piece of paper (which is typically 8.5 inches wide in the US or 210 mm wide in A4 regions), you can use that for reference. See how many times the width of the paper fits across the widest part of the bag. It’s not perfect, but it gives you a general sense of the size.
Recording and Understanding Your Measurement
Once you have your width measurement, write it down, including the units (inches or centimeters). This is especially important if you are comparing multiple purses. Understanding the width, along with other measurements like height and depth, will give you a much better idea of a purse’s overall size and capacity. Below is a simple example of how you might record your measurements.
| Measurement | Value (Inches) |
|---|---|
| Width | 12 |
Knowing how to measure the width of a purse accurately can be really helpful when you’re shopping online, organizing your closet, or just trying to figure out if your favorite book will fit inside. It takes just a few seconds, but it can save you a lot of hassle in the long run. Plus, it’ll help you appreciate the design and proportions of your favorite bags even more!
Measuring the Height: From Base to Top
Getting the height of your purse right is key, whether you’re buying online or just want to know if it fits your essentials. Here’s the lowdown on how to accurately measure a purse’s height.
Find the Base
The “base” is the bottom of your purse, where it would sit if you placed it on a flat surface. For structured bags, this is pretty straightforward. However, for slouchy bags or hobos, it can be a little trickier. Gently flatten the base as much as possible without distorting the natural shape of the purse. Imagine the purse sitting on a table – that flattened bottom is your starting point.
Locate the Highest Point
Next, you need to identify the highest point of the bag. This isn’t necessarily the top of the straps or handles. Instead, look for the tallest point of the bag’s body itself. For example, if your bag has a decorative flap that extends higher than the main opening, consider the top of the flap as the highest point. If your bag has a rounded or curved top, find the very center of that curve as your measurement point.
Grab Your Measuring Tape
Now, take a flexible measuring tape – the kind used for sewing is ideal, but a ruler can also work, though it might be less accurate for curved bags. Place the end of the tape at the center of the base of the purse. Extend the tape upwards along the side of the bag to the highest point you identified earlier. Ensure the tape follows the contour of the bag if it has any curves or shaping. Don’t pull the tape too tight, as this could distort the measurement. Aim for a snug but not strained fit.
From Base to Top: Taking the Measurement
With the tape extending from the base to the top, take note of the measurement where the tape meets the highest point of the bag. Round your measurement to the nearest quarter inch or half centimeter for practicality. For example, if your measurement falls between 6 and 6 ¼ inches, round to 6 inches. If it falls between 6 ¼ and 6 ½ inches, round to 6 ½ inches. This keeps things simple and provides a generally accepted level of accuracy. Remember to record your measurement and specify the units used (inches or centimeters) to avoid any confusion later. This accurate height measurement can be crucial when comparing different purses, checking size restrictions, or ensuring your desired bag will fit your needs.
Here’s a quick reference for some common purse height measurements and what they might typically hold:
| Height | Potential Contents |
|---|---|
| Small (Under 7 inches) | Phone, wallet, keys, small makeup bag |
| Medium (7-10 inches) | Above, plus a small tablet, book, water bottle |
| Large (Over 10 inches) | All of the above, plus a laptop, folder, larger items |
By following these steps, you’ll be able to accurately measure the height of any purse and make informed decisions about your purchase or organization!
Measuring Strap Drop: How Long Does it Hang?
The strap drop is the distance between the top center of the purse and the highest point of the strap. It determines how the bag hangs on your body, influencing comfort and style. Knowing how to measure this correctly is key to finding a purse that fits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a bag tucked snugly under your arm or one that swings freely at your hip, getting the right strap drop is essential.
Measuring with a Flexible Measuring Tape
The easiest way to measure strap drop is with a flexible measuring tape, the kind used for sewing. Lay your purse on a flat surface. Locate the center top edge of the bag. This might be the top of the zipper, the center of the handle attachments, or the midpoint of a fold-over flap. Next, find the highest point of the strap where it connects to the bag. This is often where the strap is stitched or clipped to the purse hardware. Extend your measuring tape from the top center of the purse down to the highest point of the strap. The measurement you get is your strap drop. Make sure the tape measure is taut, but not stretching the strap, for the most accurate result.
Measuring with a Ruler or Stiff Measuring Tape
If you don’t have a flexible measuring tape, a ruler or a stiff measuring tape can work, though it might be a bit more challenging. Again, lay the purse flat. Position the ruler or stiff tape measure from the top center of the purse to the highest strap attachment point. If the strap is curved, you might need to carefully follow the curve of the strap to get the most precise measurement. If using a shorter ruler, you may need to measure in sections and add the measurements together.
What If My Purse Has Multiple Straps?
Some purses offer versatile carrying options with multiple straps. If your purse has both a shorter shoulder strap and a longer crossbody strap, measure the drop of each individually. This information will be helpful when considering how you plan to use the bag. You might find you prefer the shorter drop for everyday use and the longer drop for travel or more active outings. Remember to measure from the same point on the top center of the bag for each strap to maintain consistency.
Understanding Strap Drop Lengths and Styles
Strap drop lengths generally fall into a few categories, each suitable for different styles and occasions. A short drop (typically less than 12 inches) is ideal for handheld bags or those worn snugly under the arm. A medium drop (around 12-22 inches) suits shoulder bags and allows for comfortable over-the-shoulder wear. A long drop (22 inches or more) is characteristic of crossbody bags and offers hands-free convenience. Knowing these general guidelines can help you visualize how a purse will hang on your body based on its strap drop measurement.
Why is Measuring Strap Drop Important?
Measuring strap drop is more than just a technical detail; it directly affects the comfort and practicality of your purse. A bag with a drop that’s too short might feel awkward under your arm or dig into your shoulder. Conversely, a drop that’s too long might cause the bag to swing excessively or hang too low on your body. By accurately measuring the strap drop, you can choose a purse that sits comfortably and complements your personal style.
Tips for Accurate Strap Drop Measurement
Getting an accurate strap drop measurement is crucial for finding the perfect purse. Here’s a breakdown of tips and what to consider when measuring:
Consistent Starting Point: Always measure from the same point at the top center of the bag. This ensures accurate comparisons between different bags.
Account for Hardware: Consider how attached hardware, like rings or clasps, contributes to the overall drop length. Sometimes the strap’s connection point is below the hardware, affecting the final measurement.
Consider Body Type: Your height and body type influence how a purse will hang. A longer drop might be suitable for taller individuals, while a shorter drop could be more practical for those of shorter stature.
Check for Adjustability: Some straps offer adjustable lengths. If this is the case, measure the strap drop at both the shortest and longest settings to understand the full range of carrying options.
Record Your Measurements: Keep a record of your favorite purse strap drops. This information will be incredibly useful when shopping for new bags online or in stores. You’ll be able to quickly filter your options and find purses with the ideal fit.
| Strap Drop Length | Bag Style | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Short (Less than 12 inches) | Handheld, Clutch, Small Shoulder Bag | Formal occasions, evenings out |
| Medium (12-22 inches) | Shoulder Bag, Tote | Everyday use, work, shopping |
| Long (22+ inches) | Crossbody Bag, Messenger Bag | Travel, active outings, hands-free convenience |
Measuring Handle Drop: For Handheld Purses
The “drop” of a handbag refers to the distance between the top center of the purse’s strap or handle and the highest point of the bag itself. This measurement is crucial for handheld purses as it determines how comfortably the bag hangs from your shoulder or in your hand. Getting the right drop can make all the difference between a purse that feels natural and one that constantly slips or bangs against your side.
How to Measure Handle Drop
Measuring handle drop is a straightforward process. You’ll need a flexible measuring tape, preferably a soft cloth or tailor’s tape measure to conform to the curve of the handle. A rigid ruler can also work in a pinch, but it may not give you the most accurate reading for curved handles.
Step-by-Step Guide
First, lay your purse on a flat surface, ensuring the straps or handles are relaxed and in their natural hanging position. If the purse has adjustable straps, set them to the length you’d typically wear.
Next, locate the highest point of the bag. This is usually the top edge or the peak of a rounded top. Place one end of your measuring tape at this point.
Then, extend the measuring tape to the top center of the strap or handle where it connects to the bag. This is the point from which the strap hangs. For handles, measure to the top center of one handle.
Finally, take your reading from the measuring tape. This is your handle drop measurement. Be sure to record it, especially if you are comparing different purses.
Understanding Handle Drop Measurements and Your Height
Handle drop is typically measured in inches or centimeters. Knowing your own height can help you choose a purse with a comfortable drop. A longer drop is generally better for taller individuals, while a shorter drop is often more suitable for shorter individuals.
| Height | Suggested Handle Drop Range (inches) |
|---|---|
| Under 5'4" (162 cm) | 4-6 inches |
| 5'4" - 5'7" (162 - 170 cm) | 5-8 inches |
| Over 5'7" (170 cm) | 7-10 inches or longer |
These are just guidelines, of course. Personal preference and the specific style of the purse also play a role. For instance, a clutch designed to be carried in hand will naturally have a very short drop, while a shoulder bag might have a longer drop.
Different Handle Styles and Measuring Considerations
Different handle styles can present unique measuring challenges. For chain straps, measure from the top of the chain link that attaches to the bag. For rolled or tubular handles, measure to the top center of the rolled part. If the bag has both a shoulder strap and shorter handles, you’ll want to measure the drop for both. This is especially important if you plan to carry the bag in different ways. A short drop is suitable for hand-carrying, while a longer drop is necessary for comfortable shoulder or crossbody wear.
If the bag has a detachable strap, consider measuring the drop at various adjustments. This helps you understand how the bag will hang at different lengths. Understanding how to measure handle drop empowers you to choose purses that fit your body and style perfectly.
Considering Additional Measurements: Pockets and Compartments
When you’re figuring out the perfect purse size, don’t forget about the inside! The main compartment dimensions give you a good starting point, but the number, size, and placement of pockets and compartments significantly impact a purse’s functionality and how much you can practically carry.
Interior Pockets
Think about what you typically carry and how you like to organize your belongings. Do you prefer a single large open space, or do you need designated spots for your phone, wallet, keys, and other essentials? A purse with multiple interior pockets, including zippered pockets for security, can be a game-changer for staying organized. Measure the width and depth of significant interior pockets, especially if you plan to use them for specific items. A small, slim pocket might be perfect for lipstick, but it won’t hold a larger smartphone.
Measuring Interior Pockets
To measure interior pockets, use the same method as measuring the main compartment: a flexible measuring tape. Measure the width at the widest point and the depth from the pocket opening to the bottom seam. For zippered pockets, note the length of the zipper opening as this determines the size of items you can easily fit inside.
Exterior Pockets
Exterior pockets offer quick access to frequently used items. Some purses have slip pockets, ideal for items you need to grab quickly, while others feature zippered pockets for added security. Consider whether you prefer front, back, or side exterior pockets and how their placement affects the overall size and shape of the purse.
Measuring Exterior Pockets
Just like interior pockets, measure the width and depth of exterior pockets. For slip pockets, consider the depth especially, as items stored here might stick out and alter the purse’s overall dimensions. For flap-covered pockets, measure the flap’s dimensions as well to understand how much coverage it provides.
Specialized Compartments
Some purses have dedicated compartments for specific items like laptops, tablets, or water bottles. These compartments usually have padding or structured sides for added protection. If you plan to use these compartments regularly, measure them carefully to ensure they fit your devices or bottles comfortably.
Measuring Specialized Compartments
Use your flexible measuring tape to determine the width, depth, and height of any specialized compartments. For laptop or tablet sleeves, ensure the compartment’s dimensions are slightly larger than your device for a snug but not overly tight fit. For water bottle pockets, consider the diameter and height of your usual water bottle.
Recording Your Pocket and Compartment Measurements
Keeping a record of your measurements helps you compare different purses and ensures you choose one that perfectly suits your needs. Create a simple table to organize the information:
| Feature | Width (inches) | Depth (inches) | Height (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Compartment | ||||
| Interior Zipper Pocket | Zipper length: | |||
| Exterior Slip Pocket | ||||
| Laptop Compartment | Fits up to a 13" laptop |
Pocket and Compartment Placement
Beyond just size, consider the placement of pockets and compartments. Are they easy to access? Do they interfere with each other? A well-designed purse will have strategically placed pockets and compartments that optimize organization and accessibility without adding unnecessary bulk. Think about how you typically use a purse and choose one with a layout that complements your habits.
Recording and Comparing Your Measurements
Getting the right purse size can make or break an outfit, and sometimes, those online dimensions just don’t cut it. Taking your own measurements ensures a perfect fit for your needs. Here’s how to accurately measure a purse and keep track of those all-important numbers.
Measuring Width
The width is the horizontal measurement of the purse across its widest point. Lay the purse flat on a surface, facing upwards. Using a flexible measuring tape, extend it across the bag from the furthest left edge to the furthest right edge. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not curved or twisted. Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Measuring Height
Height refers to the vertical measurement of the purse from its base to the highest point, excluding the straps or handles. Place the purse flat, as before. Position your tape measure at the base center of the bag and extend it upwards to the top center edge. Again, make sure the tape is straight and taut, recording the measurement.
Measuring Depth
Depth is how thick or wide the purse is from front to back. This measurement is crucial for understanding how much the purse can hold. Place the purse sideways. Measure from the front of the bag to the back, ensuring the tape measure is perpendicular to the width measurement. Record this measurement as well.
Measuring Strap or Handle Drop
The strap or handle drop is the length from the top edge of the purse where the strap is attached, down to the top of the strap or handle. This tells you how the purse will hang on your shoulder or in your hand. Measure this length with your tape, ensuring you don’t include the hardware, like buckles or rings, in the measurement unless they significantly add to the overall drop length.
Recording Your Measurements
A little organization goes a long way! Create a simple system for keeping track of your purse measurements. You could use a small notebook, a spreadsheet, or even a note-keeping app on your phone. Here’s a suggestion for what information to record:
| Feature | Measurement (inches/cm) |
|---|---|
| Width | |
| Height | |
| Depth | |
| Strap/Handle Drop | |
| Notes (e.g., Style, Brand) |
Comparing Your Measurements
Now that you have a record of your purse measurements, you can easily compare them when shopping online or in-store. This helps ensure that the purse you’re eyeing will be the right size for your everyday needs, special occasions, or travel. You can even refer back to your measurements to see which purse sizes you tend to prefer. For instance, if you find that a 10-inch wide purse is your sweet spot, you’ll know to look for bags with similar widths in the future. This eliminates guesswork and helps you make more informed decisions when adding to your purse collection.
Using a Standard Ruler or Tape Measure
While a flexible tape measure is ideal, a standard ruler can also work in a pinch, particularly for smaller purses. If using a ruler, be sure to measure in sections and carefully add the sections together for an accurate total measurement. Be mindful of maintaining a straight line and avoid curving the ruler, which could lead to an inaccurate reading.
Taking Photos with a Reference Object
Visual aids can also be helpful. When comparing purse sizes, consider including a common object, like a standard sheet of paper or a ruler, in the photos of the bags. This provides a consistent visual reference and helps you better gauge the actual dimensions of the purse, especially when shopping online where visualizing scale can be tricky.
Consider the Purse’s Shape
Keep in mind that a purse’s shape can also influence its overall capacity. For instance, a structured tote bag will likely hold more than a slouchy hobo bag with the same width and height measurements. While the basic measurements provide a good starting point, the purse’s structure and design should also be considered when evaluating its overall size and practicality.
How to Accurately Measure a Purse
Accurately measuring a purse is essential for online sellers, purchasers verifying listed dimensions, or anyone simply curious about the size of their bag. A standardized approach ensures clear communication and avoids misunderstandings. The key measurements are length, width, and depth (or height). Length refers to the longest dimension across the bottom of the bag. Width is measured across the base of the bag, perpendicular to the length. Depth is the vertical distance from the bottom of the purse to the top opening, excluding handles or straps.
For accurate measurements, use a flexible measuring tape, laying the purse flat on a level surface. Ensure the tape measure lies flat against the bag and isn’t twisted or angled. Measure to the fullest point of each dimension. For rounded or irregular shapes, measure the widest points. Clearly stating the units of measurement (inches or centimeters) is crucial. Documenting these measurements consistently will provide accurate and comparable data about the purse’s size.
People Also Ask About Measuring a Purse
Handle and Strap Drop
What is handle drop?
Handle drop refers to the vertical distance between the top center of the purse’s opening and the highest point of the handle or strap when the bag is empty. It essentially indicates how long the handles are and how the bag will hang when carried by hand.
How do you measure handle drop?
Measure from the top center of the purse opening straight down to the highest point of the handle or strap. Use a flexible measuring tape and ensure it hangs perpendicular to the bag opening.
Strap Length
How do you measure strap length?
For a removable or adjustable strap, measure its total length from end to end, including any hardware like buckles or clasps. For a fixed strap, measure from the point where it attaches to one side of the bag, across the top of the bag, to the point where it attaches on the other side. This will give you the total wearable length.
Measuring Unusual Shaped Bags
How do I measure a slouchy or unstructured bag?
Slouchy bags present a unique challenge. For consistency, measure the bag lying flat and as full as it would reasonably be when carried. Gently fill it with tissue paper or a similar lightweight material to simulate its filled shape. Then measure length, width, and depth as described above. Indicate in your description that the bag is slouchy and that dimensions are approximate when filled.