The 11 Best Purses for Wedding Guests, According to BRIDES Editors


9 months ago 163

When attending a wedding, choosing a chic purse to hang on your arm is just as important as selecting the right dress to wear. While you certainly don't need to pack many items for the night, there are a few small purse staples you'll want while dancing, secretly wiping tears from your eyes, or holding a drink and grabbing a passed hors d'oeuvre.

You may want a purse that you can wear for all your future wedding invites or a statement clutch to go with a specific dress. Either way, we researched the best wedding guest purses that are stylish yet large enough to hold all your essentials while celebrating the couple.

Jessica McClintock Angel Satin Tuxedo Flap Evening Clutch

Credit: Amazon

This beautiful satin purse from Amazon is not only budget-friendly but also versatile. You can wear it as a shoulder bag or as a clutch, making it perfect for any occasion. The shimmery champagne color complements a wide range of dress colors, so you can mix and match easily. Plus, it’s just the right size to hold all your essentials.

Colors: Champagne, navy, black | Materials: Satin | Dimensions: 4" D x 10" W x 2" H

Nina Zoey Clutch

Credit: Nordstrom

Those who want a sleek, minimalist purse will love the envelope design of this Nina clutch. Available in six colors, it has a magnetic snap closure, along with a removable chain strap for those who prefer a shoulder bag. 

Colors: 6 | Materials: Satin, reflective suedette, or polyurethane | Dimensions: 11" D x 4.5" W x 2" H

Anthropologie Claire Vegan-Leather Turnlock Clutch

Credit: Anthropologie

This vegan leather bag is ideal for those seeking a more structured clutch. It is available in four colors, including this stylish croc version. The purse features gold accents and a convenient turn-lock closure.

Colors: Croc, wine, pink, black | Materials: Vegan leather | Dimensions: 6.5" D x 15" W x 3.5" H

Bottega Veneta Knot Clutch

Credit: Bottega Veneta

This Bottega Veneta designer bag is perfect for wedding season and will serve as a timeless accessory for many special occasions. Available in black and travertine, this beautiful bag showcases the brand's signature Intreccio-pattern woven leather and features a metallic knot clasp closure.

Colors: Black, travertine | Materials: Leather, lambskin | Dimensions: 11.5" D x 19" W x 5" H

Dune London Belinda Frame Clutch

Credit: Nordstrom

We love a versatile bag. This chic clutch with the trendy "East/West" horizontal silhouette can be used as a clutch and also features a removable chain strap if you want to free up your hands. The magnetic frame closure makes getting your essentials in and out a breeze.

Colors: Black | Materials: Synthetic leather | Dimensions: 8.25" D x 3.5" W x 1.75" H

Veronica Beard Dash Clutch

Credit: Veronica Beard

We adore the playful top handle and adjustable belted strap on the fashionable Dash bag. It comes in brown suede, along with a variety of colors from black to red. This bag features an interior zip pocket and provides just enough space for your essentials.

Colors: 6 | Materials: Leather | Dimensions: 12.2" D x 1.8" W x 5.1" H

Olga Berg Ellie Crystal Mesh Ring Handle Bag

Credit: Revolve

Looking to add a touch of sparkle to your outfit? You can't go wrong with this bestselling crystal mesh bag. The ring handle allows you to keep your hands free, while the bag is the perfect size for your phone, credit cards, and lipstick.

Colors: 1 | Materials: Crystal mesh, satin jacquard | Dimensions: 7.2" D x 7.2" W x 6" H

Cult Gaia Matilde Satin Clutch Bag

Credit: Neiman Marcus

A satin purse is a timeless choice for wedding guests, and we adore the color and shape of this Cult Gaia bag. Its structured design allows for easy access to the contents inside, and it also comes with a detachable shoulder strap for added convenience.

Colors: 1 | Materials: Polyester satin | Dimensions: 5.3" D x 9.1" W x 3.5" H

JW PEI Women's Leia Pleated Clutch

Credit: Amazon

The gold hardware gives this vegan leather clutch the “cool-girl” factor that will easily take you from weddings to date night. This bag has an interior pocket and includes a strap if you want to wear it as a crossbody.

Colors: 5 | Materials: Vegan leather | Dimensions: 10.8" D x 5.7" W x 3.5" H

Cuyana System Flap Bag

Credit: Cuyana

If you're looking for a purse that is elegant enough for a wedding yet versatile enough for everyday use, consider this stunning Cuyana bag. Made from Italian pebbled leather, it is available in seven colors, including this trendy olive shade. The bag can be used as a clutch, a shoulder bag, or a crossbody bag. Please note that the straps are not included and must be purchased separately.

Colors: 7 | Materials: Italian pebbled leather | Dimensions: 6" D x 9" W x 1.5" H

Alexis Bittar Crystal Curve Clutch

Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue

A black tie wedding is the perfect occasion to treat yourself to something special, like the Crystal Curve Clutch. With its beautiful crystal pave hardware, you can easily slip your hand through and hold onto it comfortably. Plus, it comes in five gorgeous shades—our favorite is this shimmery champagne color.

Colors: 5 | Materials: Leather | Dimensions: 9.25" D x 4.25" W x 1.75" H

What to Look for in a Wedding Guest Purse

  • Design: When shopping for the right wedding guest purse, you have to decide if you want something versatile that can be used as your go-to evening bag, or something more bold, trendy, and fun that will make a statement. For a wedding guest purse that can be used for almost every wedding dress code (and more), opt for neutral shades such as black, white, nude, gold, or silver. For a standout piece, look for bright colors, interesting designs, and funky embellishments.
  • Size: You should also search for functional pieces. If your purse can't even hold your phone, what's the point of having it? A wedding guest purse should be small enough to be handheld, but with a large enough pocket to hold your essentials without bulging. Before purchasing a wedding guest purse, double-check the bag's dimensions to see if it's at least large enough to hold your phone.
  • Comfort: Lastly, look for a purse that is comfortable for you. If you want something to hang over your shoulder so your hands are free, opt for a small handbag or mini crossbody bag. And if you don't mind holding your bag or sticking it under your arm, a clutch is also a great option (even better, a clutch with a chain that can be put inside the bag if you want).

FAQ

  • A great rule of thumb is to choose a purse that coordinates with the color of your dress or a versatile piece that can be worn with almost anything for future events. A neutral shade like black, white, or nude will go with almost any look and any event—while a bright, bold purse is fun but not as versatile. And while guests are normally advised to avoid white dresses for a wedding, a white wedding guest purse is okay.

  • There is no set amount for a wedding guest purse; what you spend depends on your budget. If you feel like you want to splurge, these purses can cost upwards of a few hundred or even thousands of dollars. If you want a more budget-friendly wedding guest purse, you can find great options for less than $50.

  • You always want to take your essentials like your phone, keys, and wallet in your wedding guest purse. You may also want your favorite lipstick, hand sanitizer, concealer, and a compact mirror to make any touch-ups.

Why Trust Brides

Jessica Booth is a contributing writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. Her work has been featured in Bustle, Insider, Redbook, and Refinery29.

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