Not to alarm you, but all those festive party invites you filed away and forgot about months ago? They're very close to becoming an imminent reality. That means it's high time to start planning those fabulous outfits—shoes and bags included, of course.
Thankfully, high-street and designer brands alike have already begun releasing sparkly skirts, chic LBDs, embellished knits, killer stilettos and glittering accessories aplenty to help get you in the mood—and ace the dress code once the occasion arises.
But while arguably it's the outfit that will tend to take centre-stage at any festive event, I'm here to tell you that finding the perfect party bag to wear alongside it is just as important. Choose the right one and you might not even have to worry about your clothes at all...
Some of the season's sparkliest, most statement styles have main character energy all on their own—and can simply be paired with a classic black mini or chic tux to create an impactful party-ready look.
Alternatively, something a little more sleek and low-key might work best if you're someone who wants to ensure all eyes stay firmly on the outfit, or if you generally prefer a more pared-back aesthetic.
You see, there is quite a lot to consider when it comes to selecting your party bag for the season ahead. So it's well worth thinking about what your priorities are before hitting the shops, because there's nothing worse—or more wasteful—than an impulsive panic-induced purchase that's just worn once and never again...
Questions to ask yourself: how much will you need your party bag to hold on the night(s)? Do you want it to be a versatile extension of your festive ensembles, or the star of the show? Is it worth investing a little more on a designer style that you'll wear for years to come? Or are you just after a one-season wonder? I'd also advise taking into account whether you'd rather carry a clutch, or go hands-free with a cross-body style (all the better for grabbing canapés and coupes of champagne, I say).
If that’s left you feeling overwhelmed, allow me to step in and provide some expert assistance. I’ve scoured the shops so you don't have to, and pulled together an edit of the very best party bags around to suit all styles, priorities and budgets. And if all else fails, you could always treat yourself to more than one. 'Tis (almost) the season, after all...
Shop the Best Party Bags
Composed of silver chains and crystals, this bag is guaranteed to bring the party every time—and all for less than £80. Sold.
If Old Hollywood glamour is your vibe, look no further than ME+EM's sequinned evening bag. It'll liven up even the simplest of outfits, and work well with an elegant gown to boot.
Not into sparkles? Try a statement animal-print bag instead. Toteme's classic T-lock clutch in leopard calfhair would be my top choice, preferably paired with a sleek black tux, heels and a red lip.
Rixo's vintage-inspired beaded bag is deceptively spacious, and will fit a phone, keys, wallet, lipstick and other small essentials—all while being effortlessly elegant.
If you've been eyeing Jacquemus' cult Bisou Perle for a while, I'd recommend opting for this gold colourway so it can double up as your new party bag.
Mango's chocolate-brown rhinestone bag is a pretty safe bet, and extremely well-priced.
You can't not have a good time with this fabulous beaded bag on your arm. Real-life martini on the side, optional.
Chloé recently brought back its Noughties-era bracelet bag, and it shot straight to the top of stylish women's wishlists everywhere. This particular design would make a great investment if you're looking to maximise cost-per-wear with a bag that will work year-round.
Deceptively capacious, fundamentally festive, and with major cool-girl vibes to boot, Reformation's rosette wristlet bag is an excellent choice that will never go out of style.
Jimmy Choo's Bon Bon bags are synonymous with party season, and this new red velvet iteration has Christmas written all over it.
This is another brilliant designer bag that's chic enough to add extra zhuzh to a party look, but also versatile enough to be worn everyday. It'll leave your hands free for drinking, dancing and nabbing canapés, too.
You can't have a party bag edit without at least one style by Rabanne, though unlike some of the brand's other designs, this one will fit your phone, cardholder, lipstick and mints. I'd pair with a simple LBD, tights and heels for maximum impact.
For a more subtle take on the party bag, why not consider Miu Miu's iconic Matelassé mini hobo in a metallic shade?
This beautiful green bag can be worn as a clutch for smarter events, but it also has a slim chain inside for when you need to sling it across your shoulder.
Maximalists will love this bag from L'alingi, that's zebra-printed, sequin-covered, and has a crystal-embellished handle too. Prepare to catch every little bit of light in the room.
A satin clutch is always an elegant choice, especially when it's Saint Laurent.
Few brands do eveningwear quite like Erdem, so it tracks that the British brand would make excellent party bags too. This beautiful beaded design comes with a detachable chain shoulder strap, and features a gleaming golden bloom handle.