An oft-overlooked element of wedding day attire, the underrated bridal bag deserves more attention.
Usually replaced by the maid of honour who lovingly carries the bride’s essentials throughout the day - phone, lipstick and fragance included - many brides underutilise the bag’s potential to spice up their outfit for the big day, alongside shoes and a veil, of course.
There are countless styles on offer. Whether you’d like to toughen up your dress with metal hardwear and leather, lean into traditional femininity with a bow or satin, or would prefer a structured minaudière à la Judith Leiber for a kitsch look, any clutch will only bolster your desired aesthetic. Even better, those with sparkle will get you evening-reception ready in an instant.
Our favourites are the designs that feature elevated design details. Victoria Beckham’s pouch, for instance, adds extra appeal through a chunky chain strap that sits perfectly over the wrist, or Bottega Veneta’s Jodie boasts a contemporary knotted leather handle constructed using the brands signature weave.
Our top tip? Steer clear of anything with words, slogans or emblazoned with logos. ‘Wifey For Lifey’, ‘Bride’ and ‘Mrs’ are all off limits, as are brand names and monograms. Instead, look for quiet luxury. Stylish, understated designs that you’d wear regardless of if it’s your wedding day or not. If you follow this rule, you’re sure to make an investment you’ll use far beyond the day you say ‘I Do’.
Keep scrolling for our top pick available to buy now.
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Victoria Beckham Chain Pouch with Strap In White Leather
Victoria Beckham’s chain pouch is the perfect bridal bag. Whether you choose to wear it draped across yourshoulder via a detachable strap or, as we’d recommend, as a pochette with the chain strap over your wrist, it’s sure to elevate your outfit thanks to the smooth nappa leather and chunky gold-tone hardware.
Buy now £1050.00, Victoria Beckham
Dune Brynley - Ivory
A touch of sparkle goes a long way - and Dune’s diamanté handle design certainly delivers on the sparkle front. An elegant grab bag that’s party-ready, it will take you from the altar to the afterparty in style.
Buy now £95.00, Dune
Shrimps Antonia bag - Cream
Shrimps’ Antonia beaded bag is a sell-out season after season - so why not use a white version on your wedding day? The brand’s signature, it’s a fashion insider-favourite, and is sure to add a fun and feminine detail to your wedding day look.
Buy now £495.00, Shrimps
Bottega Veneta Mini Jodie
She’s not a regular bride, she’s a cool bride. Designed with the Italian house’s signature intrecciato leather contruction that’s folded and knotted into a contemporary curved handle, this Bottega Veneta clutch will be the envy of the ceremony. Carry it as a top handle or slide your wrist through to hold it as a clutch.
Buy now £1880.00, Bottega Veneta
Zara Pearl Bead-Shaped Minaudière
Zara’s pearl minaudière is most definitely form over function, but what’s wrong with that? It is your wedding day, after all.
A cute, eye-catching design, it will add a dash of personality to the preceedings. The best part? It’s only £45.99, leaving you some leftover cash for the all-important shoes and accessories. Did someone say Jimmy Choo?
Buy now £45.99, Zara
JW Pei Maxe Bag - White
Bottega on a budget, JW Pei’s Maze Bag gives you the woven feel without the price tag. Large enough for a phone, lipstick, mascara and perfume (all of the essentials) it will see you from AM to PM with everything you need in tow - and you can leave the rest with the bridesmaids.
Buy now £129.00, JW Pei
Alexander McQueen Four Ring mini crystal and leather shoulder bag
If the autumn/winter 2023 shows are anything to go by, grunge is a trend that’s here to stay for the season ahead. Add a slice of the Nineties aesthetic to your wedding day with Alexander McQueen’s Four Ring bag - pair with a minimal white slip to fully commit to the aeshtetic.
Buy now £1850.00, MatchesFashion
Anya Hindmarch Bow satin clutch bag
Sitting at the more traditional end of the spectrum, Anya Hindmarch’s clutch is perfect for the classic bride. Crafted using a beautiful white satin, featuring a sculpted bow and a soft suede interior, it will bring a subtle elegance to your nuptials.
Buy now £395.00, MatchesFashion
Jimmy Choo Diamond Frame Clutch
Jimmy Choo offer a comprehensive range of wedding-ready shoes and accessories, so if you want your heels and your bag to match, the luxury label should be at the top of your list.
We love this supple leather design that’s cut to a soft silhouette and accented with a gold-tone closure and detachable chain.
Buy now £2095.00, Jimmy Choo
