Today we can find many different types of obtainable handbags offered by the fashion industry. Some styles that seem to have stood the test of time are still around and are to this day still very popular. Here I have listed just a few and what they are useful for. Some are listed just for fun.
1-BINDLE
Bindle is a term used to describe a bag, sack, or any other carrying tool. In some popular cultures the Bindle is portrayed as a stick with cloth or a blanket tied around one end for carrying items. With the entire array being carried over the shoulder, portrayed particularly in cartoons and movies. (Who of our generation doesn't remember Charlie Chaplin playing on the big screen as a hobo with his Bindle over his shoulder?) However, in reality the use of the bindle can take many forms, such as a backpack, or any other type of bag used over the shoulder.
2-BACKPACK
In or about the early 1910's people started to use the term backpack which comes from knapsack and pack sack. It is very popular among students to carry their books or laptop. Today it has become an essential and a very popular item. It is a fashion accessory that is becoming very popular among women who like to jog after work. It can hold all of their gym clothes and sneakers.
3-DUFFEL BAG
Originally a duffel bag was a large cylindrical bag made of cloth with the closure at the top, often also referred to as a kit bag or gym bag. More recently, a duffel bag typically refers to a specific style of bag. It is often used to carry luggage or sports equipment.
4-FANNY PACK (Money belt)
The name fanny pack was traditionally worn facing the rear above the buttocks; fanny is a jargon term in America. Despite the name, many do not wear fanny packs on their rear because they are easier to pick pocket and harder to access. Money belts are used by travelers and were more popular during the early and mid 1990s. For some, their resurrection is a form of ironic retro fashion. It made a come back among the youth in recent years, this time termed a pouch. Many top designers such as Gucci, Prada, Coach, Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton have taken the chance to resurrect and revamp it.
5- EVENING CLUTCH (bag)
Without a doubt this is the most elegant item women should have to complement their evening attire. Often referred to as a clutch bag or a clutch purse this fashion item does just what the name implies. Most of the time they should not have and handles and should never be overstuffed. They are big enough to hold only the minimum of that a woman needs for an evening out on a special date or to a gala evening, or a wedding. 
Any special occasion where you dress elegantly is the only time this item is warranted. If you own only one, special care should be given to extend the life and beauty. Having more than one is good since you need to have it match your outfit, and we tend to never wear the same stylish dress twice.
6- PURSE
By definition a purse is described as a small bag, also called a handbag. It can also refer to a small money container similar to a wallet, but typically it is used by women has a fashion accessory, a handbag being considerably larger.
7- SATCHEL (bag)
The satchel became a fashion accessory and was popular during the 17th century, it predates the backpack. It is sometimes referred to as a messenger bag. The satchel was commonly used by cowboys.
8- TOTE
A tote bag is larger than a purse, and sometimes used as a shopping bag. It is a very popular item among woman allowing them the diversity in helping to carry many things. It is probably the most popular type of bag.
... Remember to always consider the cost when making your purchase. Sometimes it may be to your advantage to pay a little more. In most cases the quality is relative to what the consumer is willing to pay for a good backpack, shoulder bag, messenger bag, satchel or tote. Most women are willing to pay extra for a shoulder bag or purse, but give little consideration when it comes to purchasing these useful items.
Source : http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Type-Of-Handbag-Or-Shoulder-Bag-Is-Right-For-You&id=2413060