How to Measure A Handbag

If you're shopping for a handbag at The Hosta or trying to determine the size of one you already own, it can be helpful to know how to measure it properly. Here's a simple guide on how to do just that.

To measure the size of a handbag, you will need:

1. A tape measure or a ruler. We like to use a sewing tape, which is made from flexible cloth, but the plastic tapes work well too.
2. A flat surface to place the handbag on, such as a table or a countertop.

There are four things you're looking for, the height, the width, the depth and finally the drop.

To get started:

1. Place the handbag on the flat surface with the outside facing up.
2. Measure the length of the handbag from the bottom left corner to the bottom right corner. This will give you the width of the handbag.
3. Measure the height of the handbag from the opening of the bag to the bottom. This will give you the height of the handbag.
4. Measure the depth of the handbag by placing the tape measure or ruler inside the handbag and measuring from the front to the back. Alternatively, simply measure from the outside back edge to the front edge.
5. Finally, measure the distance from the highest point of the strap(s)/handle(s) to the opening of the bag. This will give you the drop measurement of the bag.

Note: Some handbags may have a curved shape, in which case it may be more difficult to get an accurate measurement. In this case, you can try measuring the handbag from the longest points on either side to get the width, and from the highest point on the top to the bottom to get the height. The depth measurement can still be taken by placing the tape measure or ruler inside the handbag.

You can find detailed measurements on each of the bags available for sale on The-Hosta.com on each individual product page. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Determining the fit of a Cross Body Bag:

Cross-body bags are designed to be worn across the torso. Depending on your preference you may wish to position the bag at mid-waist or lower hip. Therefore the typical drop lengths for cross body bags are usually  between 50 to 65 cm, which is roughly 19 x 25 inches.

Depending on what you wear with your cross body, for instance, a think fleece or heavy coat, you may find that your bag starts to ride up from your lower hip to mid waist. In this instance, a slightly longer or adjustable strap length may be suitable.

To ascertain the position of the handbag when worn across your torso, in addition to using the handbag measurements we include within each product listing, there are a series of steps to follow to help you make an informed purchase decision.

1. Confirm the drop dimensions of the bag. This is the distance from the highest point of the strap(s)/handle(s) to the opening of the bag. Note: If the dimension of the drop is not available, you can simply divide the total length of the strap by two.
   
   
2. Measure the desired position of the bag. With a sewing tape (or tailor’s measuring tape), place the tape around your torso, from your shoulder blade, over the collarbone (clavicle), and diagonally across your torso. Be sure to keep the measuring tape at an equal distance from the front and back.
   
   
3. Identify the maximum drop length. After positioning the measuring tape at the desired maximum drop length, you now know the suitable drop length for your crossbody bag.

Determining the fit of a Shoulder Bag:

Shoulder handbags are designed to be worn to the mid torso - which is often most comfortable - or lower waist of the torso. The typical drop length of shoulder bags is between 45 to 60cm, which is roughly 17.5 x 23.5 inches.

To help ascertain the position of a handbag when worn over your shoulder, following these simple steps.

1. Confirm the drop length of the bag. This is the distance from the highest point of the strap(s)/handle(s) to the opening of the bag.
   
   
2. Measure the desired position of the bag. Using a measuring tape, place the measuring tape at equal distance - from the front and back - across your shoulder blade, near your collarbone, allowing the tape hang towards your waist.
   
   
3. Identify the maximum drop length. Where the measuring tape ends, that is the approximate position of the top edge of the handbag. Adjust the tape and position as necessary to understand to get the desired maximum length of the strap.

Note: If you plan to wear your handbag over heavy clothing, such as a bulky coat or knitwear, then consider measuring the measure with the item of clothing on. Lastly, if you plan to wear your shoulder handbag across the torso, then the bag drop length should end at your hip when worn over the shoulder.