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The Ten Best Evening Bags

1. Principles - £25

The hard-case, snap-shut clutch is big news. Although there are some stunning designer versions, this sequinned bag is a great high-street take on the trend.

www.principles.co.uk; 0870 122 8802

 

 

2. Topshop - £45
I love the shape and the colour of this glam party bag from Topshop. The fan-style bag is made from leather and has just enough room inside for all the evening essentials, namely a mobile phone, lipstick, purse and, of course, your keys.
www.topshop.com; 0844 984 0264

 

 

3. Shellys - £12
Love them or hate them, the Eighties are still having a huge impact on fashion trends. This patchwork clutch bag is resolutely retro – just the thing, therefore, for dancing round to Duran Duran’s latest album.
www.shellys.co.uk; 01274 893886 

 

 

4. Chloé - £580
Add a dash of instant colour to a little black dress by teaming it with this vibrant clutch from Chloé. Orange might not be your first choice of colour for an evening bag, but this neon patent is guaranteed to brighten up the darkest winter night.
www.brownsfashion.com 

 

 

5. Dorothy Perkins - £15
More of this season’s favourite fabric – patent – although Dorothy Perkins’s take is in a more subdued hue than Chloé’s over-the-top orange. Sweet, shiny and something of a bargain.
www.dorothyperkins.com; 0844 984 0261

 

 

6. John Lewis - £30
A metallic bag is a sure-fire way to take an outfit from day to night. But this one has a secret – its silver scales aren’t sequins, they’re recycled ring pulls.
www.johnlewis.com; 0845 604 9049

 

 

7. Anya Hindmarch - £595
The Lulu is a beast with its bold leopard print and wooden details. The best way to wear animal print is in small doses, so if you fancy a walk on the wild side, this clutch is theway to go.
www.anyahindmarch.com; 020-7501 0177

 

 

8. Christian Louboutin - £420
The man responsible for beautiful shoes makes pretty special bags, too. This classic satin clutch also has a shiny oversize bow.
www.matchesfashion.com; 0870 067 8838

 

 

9. LK Bennett - £149
Snakeskin has been a catwalk hit, but if you think it looks better on the snake, go for a fake version. The leather Abby from LK Bennett comes in tan (pictured) and chocolate brown.
www.lkbennett.com; 0844 581 5881

 

 

10. Accesorize - £30
In the past year, Accessorize has really upped its game. A number of its bold, embellished handbags have caught my eye, but this beaded clutch beats them all. It has a hint of Marni about it but is a fraction of the price – what’s not to love?
www.monsoon.co.uk; 020-7313 3000

 

 

15 November 2007,
Chosen by Rebecca Armstrong