Backpack – a bag which is worn on the back of the body via two straps which are worn over each shoulder.
Canvas – plain-woven fabric which is very durable and can be made out of a range of materials including cotton, linen and hemp. Canvas is a common bag material and can be dyed, printed and also treated in order to further increase its durability by making it water-resistant. Canvas is not leather.
Duffel bag – a cylindrical shaped bag made out of non-rigid material which is often used to carry clothes or sports equipment. The original duffel bag was made out of thick cloth material originating from the Belgian town, Duffel and featured a drawstring closure at the top. Nowadays, duffel bags are made out of a range of flexible materials including canvas and leather.
Jacquard – a type of weave where the pattern is woven directly into the fabric (rather than embroidered). It can be produced using a range of materials including silk, cotton or wool. It is named after its inventor, Joseph-Marie Jacquard, who created this method of weaving in 1804.
Messenger bag – a medium sized bag with a flap and a long strap. Can be worn on the shoulder or cross body and is sometimes also referred to as a courier bag.
Minaudière – originally coined by French luxury jewellery company Van Cleef & Arpels in the 1930s, the minaudière was created in the form of a small, firm, yet luxurious and often embellished case in which women could store their items on a night out and also wear as a fashion accessory. Nowadays, most luxury designers refer to evening bags which are generally small enough to hold in one hand as a minaudière.
Tote – a bag with two handles which is used to carry around a number of items. Tote bags usually have no fastening and large compartments. The name comes from the verb ‘to tote’ which basically means to carry something around.
