What Exactly Is an Evening Bag? 

If you’re a handbag aficionado, you’ll have come across the term ‘evening bag’. Although it can be a little confusing – especially when you see people wearing one during the day. This name doesn’t mean that the bag can only come out of your closet after 5 pm. The term ‘evening bag’ relates more to the events that you would wear the bag to, than the bag itself.

An evening bag can be anything from a wedding clutch to a crossbody evening bag. Confusing, right? At Jessica McClintock, our evening bags aren’t just for special occasions. They’re the bag you’ll reach for when you want to add a touch of sparkle to your look.

This guide takes you through everything that you need to know about evening clutches, including a few of our favorite designer evening bags that everyone is talking about.

What is an evening clutch?

An evening clutch bag is a small bag that you would bring to formal and special occasions, usually held in the evening. The name ‘evening clutch’ comes from the social occasions where these smaller bags are usually carried. As the bags are small, they’re designed to be held comfortably in your hand – allowing you to hold a cocktail class or a snack in the other.

Although designer evening bags are small, they’re the perfect size to hold your keys, a credit card, and makeup. Their understated style means that they’re a versatile accessory that you can wear for multiple occasions.

When should you be using an evening clutch?

You don’t have to wait until it gets dark to take out an evening clutch. They’re a staple for formal occasions, including galas, weddings, and proms. No formal outfit is complete without one of our designer evening bags under your arm.

As an evening clutch is a smaller style, it’s the perfect choice for when you don’t want to carry your everyday bag with you. If you’re heading out for dinner or drinks with friends, an evening purse is your ultimate plus one.

You don’t need to wait for a special occasion to bring out your favorite clutch bag. With the mini bag trend showing no signs of slowing down, a clutch bag is an investment into your closet that you’ll use for years to come.

When you’re shopping for your evening clutch, you want to think about functionality. A crossbody evening bag is ideal if you want a hands-free option, but you want to consider practicality. How much do you like to carry with you? Will your phone fit in the evening clutch?

The evening clutches everyone is talking about

At Jessica McClintock, our clutch bags blend effortless style with classic silhouettes and the latest trends. Whether you’re looking for sophisticated satin, metal mesh, or a little sparkle, we have something for everyone. We’re sharing a few of the clutches that everyone is talking about right now – whether it’s a classic style or a modern trend.

1.      Chloe Pleated Satin Clutch

Do you want an evening clutch that works for any occasion? Whether you’re going to your prom or have a dozen weddings to attend, the Chloe clutch is made using classic satin with an elegant design with pleating. The embellishments along the flap add a touch of sparkle to your evening bag, making them perfect for matching with a pair of sparkly heels. If you want a clutch bag that works for every occasion, check out the Chloe evening clutch in black.

2.     Gwen Ball Mesh Ring Wristlet Pouch

It’s easy to think that all evening clutches have a vintage feel to them. Our ‘Gwen’ wristlet pouch is one of our most contemporary designs and is right on trend with its mesh embellishment. The detachable shoulder strap chain adds extra functionality to your bag – especially when you want to sip champagne without your clutch getting in the way. The credit card slip pocket makes it easy to organize your essentials and carry what you need.

3.     Sparkle Minaudiere

One person who helped fall back in love with clutch bags is the Duchess of Cambridge. She’s never seen at a formal event without a trusty evening bag by her side. Our ‘Sparkle Minaudiere’ clutch offers the classic box style that the Duchess is famous for carrying. It’s a more formal alternative to wristlet designs and elevates any outfit.

With its shoulder strap, you can carry this clutch by hand or over your shoulder. This evening bag is the right size for holding your lipstick, a compact, keys, and credit cards.

4.     Trina Metal Mesh Clutch

Do you want a clutch bag that does it all? One of our most versatile designs is the Trina clutch. This envelope silhouette can be carried under your arm, by the hand, or as a crossbody bag with the detachable metal shoulder strap.

The large main compartment is bigger than what you’ll find in most evening bags, making it ideal for anyone who likes to carry around more essentials. You can easily fit your phone, a small wallet, and makeup for touch-ups.

5.     Lily Pleated V-Flap Satin Clutch

It’s easy to think that every evening clutch comes with embellishments and sparkle. Our ‘Lily’ satin clutch bag is for the woman who encapsulates the idea of understated elegance. It’s the perfect addition to a capsule closet and has a timeless silhouette. This pleated v-flap satin clutch has a woven shoulder strap that you can use to convert the clutch into a crossbody.

Available in four neutral shades, the Lily is an effortlessly chic style that works for a cocktail party, dinner with friends, or a gala party. If you want a clutch bag that will stand the test of time, the ‘Lily’ is one of our all-time favorites.

Have you got a special occasion coming up? Is your social calendar full of weddings, birthdays, and parties? Treat yourself to a Jessica McClintock evening clutch. Our designer evening bags are guaranteed to earn you a spot on the best-dressed list. Shop all our favorite designer evening bags here.