The summer 2008 MUST-HAVE accessory

This season the undeniable must-have item is a clutch.

For your summer functions, you can set aside your other handbags in favour of a nice little clutch bag.

The clutch was very popular in the 50s and 60s, but it’s back this season in full force and goes well with many of the new Jackie O-like clothing that you find in every store … from Zara stores to higher-end designers such as Bottega Veneta.

We’ve been seeing many celebs sport the clutch because it really adds a sparkle of sophistication to any little outfit and it’s perfect for late afternoon cocktails, dinners or more formal events.

Women over 35 should definitely consider opting for a clutch for evening functions instead of a big bag because it just makes you look more current and it forces you to carry only the essentials for the evening.

The colour of the season is bright-screaming yellow. As cheerful as this colour may be, it’s simply not the best shade for most women. A clutch in yellow will add a punch of colour to a black outfit and will liven up a dress that you bought one or two seasons ago.

If you’re not courageous enough to buy a large metallic coloured bag that is also very popular for spring/summer 2008, you might feel more comfortable sporting a more-diminutive handbag in gold, silver or bronze.

I’ve located a few clutches that I quite like at different price points:

The Urban Expressions Sophie Foldover clutch in silver is ideal for less formal settings or simply because you just don’t want to carry a large handbag to brunch.

Minaudiere Brandon clutch in beige is an elegant option for summer weddings and a few other summer formal occasions (retailing at $39.99 at Baghaus).

Minaudiere Tube clutch in black is the ideal evening black clutch (retailing at $49.50 at Baghaus).

Just like yellow, purple is another big trend for spring 2008. If you’re not sure if purple is your colour, you might want to keep it to an accessory. This Purple Weave Clutch by Kotur (retails for $350) is to die for and it can be worn for afternoon or evening cocktail events.

If you like your clutches to be a little roomier, you might want to consider these patent leather Tina Patent Foldover bags by Vivre clutches in black and beige.

The quintessential Black Satin Clutch with glossy just stones by Anya Hindmarch from Vivre (retails for $360).

Silver clutch: photo by Bbaunach