The trusty evening bag is truly the tried-and-tested necessity for a night out on the town.
At marie claire, we’re firm believers that the bigger the bag the less chances there is for spontaneity throughout your night. So, when it comes to choosing our party bags we opt for something small and mighty.
While going out post lockdown is very different to our pre-pandemic standards (raise your hands if you’ve lost a face mask on a night out), there’s no reason we can’t bring some of the before-times glitz and glamour to our evenings out, right?
So in the spirit of the upcoming silly season (no, you’re not alone in having your New Years Eve outfit planned in November), we’ve rounded up the best evening bags available on the market.
Get your credit cards ready, you’ll be inspired to start planning your next girls night before you can say “add to cart”.
Renowned for their premium luxury Italian leather, Ferragamo’s Gancini Mini Bag is the perfect carry-all for those long nights ahead. This ‘Flamingo’ colour way is speaking to us and we’re ready to answer its call. Either carry by hand as the quintessential summer tote or cross body thanks to its removable strap.
Gancini Minibag, $975 at Salvatore Ferragamo
When people think about the classic evening bag, they’re probably thinking of this timeless number from Paco Rabanne. You’ll be lighting up the dance floor in no time with this sexy, silver-toned metallic number. With its trusty iconic chain and reflective detailing, who needs to bring a hand mirror when you can just carry one around.
Paco Rabanne Iconic 1969 Chain Bag, $659 at Matches Fashion
Reminiscent of a 60s Lime Splice, this lush Bottega Veneta clutch will be the perfect partner through summer. When long days by the beach turn into long nights by the bar, look no further than this celebrity-approved top-handle bag. This piece will soon become your go-to in your evening bag arsenal.
Point Bag, $3,100 at Bottega Veneta
We’ll have this number shaken (not stirred), on the rocks and extra dirty. Actually, we’ll take it straight up—we love it just the way it is. Regardless of whether martinis are your drink of choice or not, this cocktail-inspired bag will put you in the parting spirt (no pun intended). Now, all we need is a bartender…
Rosantica Martini Crystal And Metal Cross-Body Bag, $975 at Matches Fashion
As far as evening bags are concerned, when you’re in the company of Prada you’re in safe hands. Take this crystal embellished clutch for instance. Featuring both leather mesh and satin detailing (what can’t she do!), the drawstring fastening will ensure that this show-stopping number is never far from reach. Prepare to become the belle of the ball.
Prada Leather Mesh And Satin Clutch, $2,200 at Farfetch
While bucket bags have certainly made a resurgence in recent years, this timeless raffia number from Fendi is timeless classic that will go with any ensemble. Whether you’re plans for the evening entail something more laid back or dialled up, this trust bag will take you from day to night. Plus, with both a detachable top handle and shoulder strap, the possibilities of styling this bag are (almost) endless.
Fendi Mon Trésor Mini Raffia Bucket Bag, $2,950 at Mytheresa
It’s an undeniable fact that Jacquemus is the king of women’s evening bags. If you need proof then look no further than the cult classic that put micro bags on the map; the Le Chiquito. Literally translating to ‘little’, this coveted number is part of the Maison’s highly anticipated Fall/Winter 2021 ‘La Montagne’ collection and features a unique gold harness detail. We might not be able to fit a phone into the tiny bag but we don’t care.
Jacquemus Le Chiquito Montagne Mini Leather Tote, $915.89 at NET-A-PORTER
This stylish 90s-esque shoulder bag from Saint Laurent is sleek, sophisticated and oh-so sensual. Featuring soft-as-butter cream leather (made in Italy, no less) and the Maison’s signature ‘YSL’ plaque, the minimal silhouette will a favourite for years to come. The bag also offers adjustable straps, meaning you can adjust the length to fit your mood. Wear super tight under your shoulder à la Carrie Bradshaw or a little lower for a more relaxed fit.
Saint Laurent Leather Shoulder Bag, $2,690 at NET-A-PORTER
It’s a bracelet. No, it’s a shoulder bag. No, it’s both! Coming straight from Jonathan Anderson’s genius mind, this two-in-one showcases the Spanish house’s inimitable artisanal craftsmanship. Equally sculptural as it is functional, this piece is the embodiment of fashion-meets-art. Its bubble-gum pink colour way also injects a sense of youthfulness and fun into the design.
Loewe Bracelet Pleated Leather Shoulder Bag, $2,100 at NET-A-PORTER
As the name suggests, this timeless classic from TODS will spruce up any ensemble. Bespoke leather detailing is amplified with its unique zebra print and mini flap—the perfect place to store all your evening essentials. TODS leather is second-to-none, and there is no better feeling then receiving one of TODS iconic amber boxes.
Timeless Bag In Leather Mini, $3,400 at TODS
Named after the enviable Jackie Kennedy Onassis (the stylish former First Lady of the United States), Gucci has put a contemporary twist on this signature classic. As part of their ‘Hacker Project’, a partnership with luxury label Balenciaga, the codes of two legacy houses adorn this iconic shoulder bag. Jackie would certainly be proud.
The Hacker Project Small Jackie 1961 Bag, $3,780 at Gucci
Live from New York, it’s Coach’s signature canvas tote! Made from refined leather, this bag is perfect for post-work drinks thanks to it’s multifunctional zip pockets and magnetic snap closure. Plus, the bag is equipped with four little feet at the base to protect the bottom from unwanted spills and stains.
Chain Cashin Tote In Signature Canvas, $995 at Coach
Sure, the tote may not be the obvious first choice for an evening bag, but this NYC classic is just too chic to be left at home. For the nights when you’re coming straight from the office, this small-but-mighty purse packs a punch in the print department and is sturdy to remain on your shoulder all night long.
Spade Flower Jacquard Stripe Market Medium Tote, $419 at Kate Spade
Loved by the likes of Anne Hathaway and Zendaya, the Valentino One Stud is a plush leather purse that can take your outfits from drab to fab. Made with soft as butter Nappa Lambskin, the flap bag is accented by the iconic (and titular) one stud that serves everyday elegance.
Valentino Garavani One Stud Nappa Bag, $4,620 at Valentino
