We're positive that no matter how you see yourself -- trendy,

corporate or casual -- your ultimate goal is to look "together"

• to look beautiful and elegant in your poise and style of

clothing and accessories. You spend hours looking for the right

outfit and analyze it many times over to make sure it perfects

and gives you that eye catching look. But do you give that same

time and scrutiny to your accessories like your purse and

handbag before throwing it over your shoulder and leaving the

house?

You probably didn't know that a purse can flatten your curves

almost as much as the right pair of pants or shirt. Now that we

have your attention read on to determine your shape and what

type purse you should carry.

Try to choose a purse shape that is the opposite of your body

type. While the shape should oppose your body type for maximum

flattery, the size of the bag should be in proportion to your

figure. If you are tall and thin, look for the large sloppy

bags that lay against you to compliment your figure. If you're

short and voluptuous, play off opposites by choosing a handbag

that is tall and rectangular or long and sleek.

Most women look great with a bag that hits mid-torso because it

flatters the waist.

Take a look at the five basic body shapes and find the best

purse for your shape:

• Narrow Top/Full Bottom

If you have full hips or tummy and small top, draw the eye up

with accessories. You should carry a bag with short straps that

fits snug under your arm.

• Full Top/Narrow Bottom

If the fullness you carry on top is unwanted (some do pay for

it, you know) turn the area into a "no man's land". Nothing

should cause the eye to linger so draw the eye downwards by

carrying long slouching bags.

• Hour Glass

If you got it girl, flaunt it! This shape best describes a

woman who is balanced on top and bottom with a defined waist

and is considered the ideal body shape. You can carry off

anything—lucky lady!!

• Narrow/Top to Bottom

If you are naturally thin, you have always faced the challenges

that come with dressing this body shape. If you are unnaturally

thin -- by choice -- you probably, prefer to show it off. The

key is to add dimension to your profile. Don’t choose a bag

that will hug the body too much. Think unstructured, bulky type

purses. Try anything with horizontal detail in the patterns.

• WIDE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

In general, the rounder your figure, the more structured your

purse should be. For this body type, shape and color is

important. Colors should be muted, monochromatic is best and

prints should be kept to a minimum. Draw the eye to the top or

center of the torso with a mid-length strap.

Now you know the right purse for you! Always remember to try on

the bag—just like you would clothing and shoes. Remember that

where the purse touches your body, that part of your body is

accentuated. For example, if the purse is under your arm

against your breast, the eye is drawn up to the bag.

So take the time to look for the right purse for you—it’s not

always the same purse that your best friend carries. A purse

should not only carry your personal belongings, it should add

to your style and looks.