Some terms used in the bag world come from other languages, and the same style can go by different names with different sellers. This glossary is for sellers who want to use the right term when writing product descriptions and for buyers who want to know the name of the bag they are looking for.

Bag styles

  • Baguette bag: A slim, long shape carried under the arm on the shoulder, named after the French bread. See wholesale baguette bags.
  • Belt bag: A small bag worn at the waist or across the chest.
  • Bowling bag: A rounded bag with two handles, usually with a zip.
  • Box bag: A hard-bodied bag with a geometric shape.
  • Clutch: An elegant hand-held bag with no strap or a thin strap, mostly used at events. See wholesale clutch and portfolio bags.
  • Crossbody bag: A bag worn diagonally across the body on a long strap. See wholesale crossbody bags.
  • Briefcase: A structured work bag designed for documents and laptops.
  • Hobo bag: A soft-bodied shoulder bag whose top slouches into a crescent shape.
  • Bucket bag: A cylindrical bag, often with a drawstring.
  • Shoulder bag: A bag with a handle or strap long enough to carry on the shoulder. See wholesale shoulder bags.
  • Portfolio: A flat, envelope-shaped bag carried in the hand or under the arm.
  • Messenger bag: A horizontal bag with a flap and a long strap.
  • Backpack: A bag carried on the back with two straps. See wholesale backpacks.
  • Shopper / tote bag: A large, open-top or zipped bag with two handles.
  • Phone bag: A mini bag, usually with a strap, big enough for a phone and a few cards.

Bag parts

  • Lining: The fabric covering the inside of the bag.
  • Strap: A long band for shoulder or crossbody use; it can be fixed, adjustable or removable.
  • Handle: A short grip for carrying in the hand or on the arm.
  • Flap: The piece covering the opening; it may close with a magnet, snap or lock.
  • Swivel clasp: The spring hook that attaches the strap to the bag.
  • Ring: The metal piece connecting the strap or handle to the body.
  • Feet (base studs): Small metal studs on the base that protect it from wear.
  • Gusset: The folded side panel that increases capacity.
  • Organiser compartments: Small inner pockets for pens, cards and a phone.

Closure types

  • Zip: The most secure and common closure.
  • Magnet: Opens and closes quickly; usually used on flap styles.
  • Snap: A metal button that closes when pressed.
  • Drawstring: An opening closed by pulling a cord; common on bucket bags.
  • Turn lock: A decorative metal lock that closes with a twist.

Material terms

  • Faux leather (PU leather): A leather-look material made with a polyurethane coating on a fabric base. See our article on faux leather vs genuine leather bags.
  • Croc print: An embossed surface that looks like crocodile skin.
  • Quilted: A raised diamond or square pattern created with stitching.
  • Suede-look: A matte surface with a velvety texture.
  • Patent: A glossy, lacquered-looking surface.
  • Canvas: A tightly woven, durable fabric.

For sellers: using terms correctly

Using the right style name in the product title helps customers find what they are looking for. A title that includes style, pattern and use, such as “Women’s Quilted Chain-Strap Shoulder Bag” instead of “Women’s Bag”, works better both in search and at the decision stage. For writing titles and descriptions, see our guide how to write a bag product description; for details on how each style is used, see bag styles and types.

All styles at Çanta Bayim

You can browse many of the styles in this glossary on Çanta Bayim’s wholesale bags page. You can place a mixed wholesale order of at least 15 units in total across different styles and colours, or order single units with a dealer account.