How To Measure A Purse Strap

Accurate measurements help ensure your handbag sits perfectly on your frame and fits your daily carrying style. Use this guide to measure strap drop, total strap length, strap width, and overall handbag dimensions before selecting your custom options.

1. How to Measure Strap Drop

Quick Answer: Strap drop is the vertical distance from the top edge of your handbag to the highest point of the strap. To measure it, place your tape measure at the top opening of the bag and measure straight up to the peak of the strap while the bag is upright.

Strap drop determines where the bag rests on your body, affecting comfort, weight distribution, and overall proportion.

Place your bag on a flat surface or hold it upright by the strap. Position the start of your tape measure at the top edge of the bag opening and measure straight up to the peak of the arch.

Recommended Strap Drop by Height

• 5'0" – 5'3": 18 inches
• 5'2" – 5'8": 20 inches
• 5'5" – 6'0": 23 inches

2. How to Measure Total Strap Length

Quick Answer: Total strap length is the full end-to-end measurement from one attachment point to the other. Lay the strap flat and measure the entire length, including the hardware where it clips or fastens to the bag.

• Short Handles (Handheld): 12 – 20 inches
• Shoulder Strap: 30 – 40 inches
• Crossbody Strap: 50 inches
• Extra‑Long Strap: 60 inches
• Adjustable Strap: 22 – 60 inches

3. Selecting Strap Width

Quick Answer: Strap width impacts shoulder balance and aesthetic proportion. Choose a width that complements your frame and balances the physical weight of your leather handbag.

• Petite: 3/8 inch – 1/2 inch
• Standard: 3/4 inch – 1 inch
• Large: 1 1/2 inch – 2 inches

4. How to Measure Handbag Dimensions

Quick Answer: Handbag dimensions are measured by width, height, and depth. Measure width horizontally across the front, height vertically from top to bottom edge (excluding handles), and depth across the bottom base panel from front to back.

For automated sizing recommendations tailored specifically to your body measurements, use our interactive Find Your Perfect Bag Size Fit Tool. To explore full-grain strap construction, review our Custom Leather Purse Strap Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is purse strap drop?

Purse strap drop is the vertical distance from the top edge of the handbag opening to the highest point of the strap. This measurement determines where the bag rests on your body.

How do I measure strap drop on a bag I already own?

Place your bag upright, position a flexible tape measure at the top edge of the opening, and measure straight up to the underside peak of the strap.

What is the difference between strap drop and total strap length?

Strap drop measures vertical clearance from the bag to the strap peak. Total strap length measures the full physical length from hardware end to hardware end.

What strap drop is best for my height?

Heights 5'0"–5'3" typically prefer an 18-inch drop. Mid-range heights 5'2"–5'8" fit well with a 20-inch drop. Heights 5'5"–6'0" usually require a 23-inch drop for ideal hip placement.

How do I measure handbag width, height, and depth?

Measure width across the front panel, height from top edge to bottom base (excluding straps), and depth across the bottom gusset from front edge to back edge.

Tailored to Your Frame & Style

Every Danielle Royal handbag begins with full-grain vegetable-tanned leather and is crafted one piece at a time in my Stockbridge, Georgia studio. Your precise measurements ensure your made-to-order handbag provides a comfortable, personalized fit built for long-lasting wear.

Explore The Royal Collection to customize your handbag dimensions and strap configurations.