Find the right purse for your body type

At first thought, a purse doesn't seem like anything more than an accessory. But the wrong style, size or shape can really make or break your look. Trying on as purse is just as important as trying on clothes. Eyes tend to be drawn to bags at first glance, so you'll want to accentuate the positive. Before you run to the register with this season's hot bag, read this guide to finding the right bag for you.

IF YOU'RE LONG AND LEAN

Tall and thin girls can get away with just about everything when it comes to purses. Oversize bags will look great, shoulder bags will look great and so will a clutch. If you're a long and lean gal, you really want to watch the size of the bag you're choosing. Remember to avoid anything too small, as it will just make you look bigger. Think about proportions when you're choosing a bag - something mid size or larger will be best, unless you're choosing a shoulder bag, in which case make sure it fits snugly under your arm.

IF YOU'RE PETITE

Petite gals need to watch the size of a bag more than anyone. Let's go back to the main rule when choosing a bag: proportion, proportion, proportion. Smaller bags will work best. Keep bags small and snug close to the body, and make sure you don't choose anything that's too large, or you'll look lost next to it.

IF YOU'RE BOTTOM HEAVY

A shoulder bag will work best, because you'll want to draw attention to your face and upper body. A bag that fits snugly under the arm or a hobo bag that hangs slightly but stays above the hips will be most flattering.

IF YOU'RE TOP HEAVY

If you've got slim hips and legs, but have a tummy; try a messenger bag, or a handbag. Shoulder bags will draw attention to your tummy and chest, but if you've got great legs, you'll want the attention drawn there. If you're set on a bag that sits on your shoulder, make sure you get something that has got a long strap, and is slightly large in size.

IF YOU'RE CURVY ALL OVER

If you've got that coveted hourglass figure, you're best bet will be a shoulder bag. Something that hits right about the waist will be most flattering. You're going to want to accentuate that gorgeous figure, but luckily, you've got a body that will be flattered by just about every style of bag. Just remember to avoid any bag that's too small, or too large in size.

IF YOU'RE A PLUS SIZE

The main trick with being a plus size is to stay away from bags that are really small. They will make you look bigger than you are. Shoulder bags can look awkward if they're too small, so try and go for styles that are wider in width, like a hobo bag.

GENERAL RULES

Watching size is the most important thing with purses. The length of a purse's straps can really be a factor, especially if you're short. Make sure you try on a bag before you buy, and if you're buying a bag for a special occasion, to go with a special outfit, try and wear the outfit, or bring it with you when you're purse shopping. This way, you're sure to get the right fit. If you're buying a purse that you want to be able to wear with anything, keep in mind that while it may look great with your tee now, it may be too small when paired with a jacket. Thinking ahead will help you pick out the right bag for you.