How do you normally carry your bag? In your hand? Tucked under your arm? You may think this is a silly question, but it’s actually quite relevant. While the style of bag or designer you choose speaks volumes about your personality, so does the actual way you’re holding it. We consulted the body-language experts to find out what your bag-carrying style really says about you.

Way #1: Worn over one shoulder with the wearer keeping the bag close to her body

You’re practical and driven by utilitarian motives. Carrying your bag close to the body points to the fact that you prioritize freedom of movement over the display element.

Way #2: Worn over one shoulder with the bag swinging freely

You prioritize ease and functionality over display. Keeping your bag situated at the front of her body might allow passerby to better check out the brand/shape/fabric/color, but it wouldn’t be as practical.

Way #3: Worn cross-body with the bag in front of the body

Staying safe is most important to you. With the pouch out front, you can keep close tabs on your personal belongings.

Way #4: Worn cross-body with the bag behind the body

By not allowing your bag to hide the front of her body this shows so you are confident. When you wear your bag over your shoulder, the message you’re sending is that you don’t feel the need to hide behind anything.

Way #5: Worn in crook of elbow

Bags worn like this often indicate a priority on status and position. This manner of carrying best shows off the brand specifics of the bag you’re carrying, signaling your status to “those in the know” who can properly identify it.

Way #6: Held in hand

This style of bag-carrying suggests a rather elegant outlook on life, as not only are they small but they are also high-maintenance in terms of using up one hand all of the time.

Way #7: Going bag-less