18 Must-See Wedding Guest Handbags for Every Budget and Season

Let us give you a hand on your quest for the perfect handbag.
Two wedding guest handbags
Photos, left to right: Cult Gaia, Loeffler Randall
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by
Sofia Deeb
sofia deeb headshot
Sofia Deeb
Assistant Fashion Commerce Editor
  • Sofia writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide with a specialty in fashion and e-commerce.
  • Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Sofia was a writer for Santa Barbara Life and Style Magazine.
  • Sofia studied cultural anthropology and journalism at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Updated Aug 11, 2023
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Okay, so you've selected the perfect outfit for an upcoming wedding. . . now it's time to accessorize. Choosing a purse for a wedding guest look can seem like an afterthought, but in reality, a stylish bag is key to pulling it all together. If you're not sure where to begin your search, you're in luck because our fashion-savvy editors have rounded up their favorite handbag picks for every kind of wedding dress code. From sleek silhouettes to statement-making designs, the styles in our edit are the chic sidekicks your ensemble is missing—but not for long!

Whether you're heading to a casual daytime ceremony, swanky black tie "I do's" or anything in between, having a handbag is essential. Not only can this accessory take your outfit to the next level, but it serves a very practical purpose, too—you can stash everything from your wallet and phone to your go-to lip gloss, tissues and blotting sheets in your clutch or purse.

Ready for your new plus one? Keep reading to check out our editor's favorite handbags for the wedding day and beyond.

Our Favorite Purses for Wedding Guests

Look, you can't hit the dancefloor with your hands full. Not to worry—these 18 editor-approved handbag picks are sure to come in *clutch* for every wedding on your calendar.

Cult Gaia Rory Wristlet

Black mini wristlet bag from Cult Gaia
Photo: Cult Gaia

Influencer and Partnerships Specialist, Kimberly Brown, believes there is no better accessory than a little black bag. "I love when classic accessories have a statement piece or offer something out of the norm, and that's why I'm absolutely obsessed with the gold beading on this wristlet," she says. "Plus, this Cult Gaia cutie is the perfect mini to hold your essentials while you're getting down on the dance floor at any wedding reception."

Dress Code: Formal

Coach Hayden Crossbody

Gold crossbody bag from Coach
Photo: Coach

"Metallics are having a moment—and so is Coach." says The Knot's Social Media Coordinator, Kerre Jo Lattanzio. "Coach is known for crafting well-made handbags at an affordable price, and the Hayden Crossbody is exactly that. Its minimalist look and soft gold exterior provides just the right amount of playfulness. . .I have major heart eyes." We're right there with you, Kerre.

Dress Code: Semi-Formal

Olga Berg Annalee Crystal Trim Clutch

Silver clutch bag from Olga Berg
Photo: Olga Berg

"Fact: A silver clutch will go with any outfit whether you're dressed in black or bright colors (peep the photo)," says Assistant Commerce Updates Editor, Emily Rumsey. In her opinion, this pick strikes an ideal balance between elegant and bold thanks to its sleek metallic vegan leather and rhinestone clasp. Her favorite part? It comes with a silver chain so you can go hands free on the dance floor!

Dress Code: Formal

STAUD Ollie Bag Lilac

Lilac purse from STAUD
Photo: Shopbop

"When choosing dresses as a wedding guest, I try to stick to solids (and oftentimes, neutrals) as the outfit base," says Content Strategist, Planning & Style, Taylor Whitten. "The accessories (hello, shoes and bags) are my time to add some fun pops of color to draw the eye, and this bag screams just that! (It also doesn't hurt that I have been completely living for lilac this year!)"

Dress Code: Casual

Cult Gaia Cora Bag

Wooden bead bag from Cult Gaia
Photo: Cult Gaia

Here's my personal favorite. This stylish beaded bag certainly makes a statement. Wooden beads give it an organic feel that makes it totally fitting for a beach wedding, or any outdoor event for that matter. Thanks to its neutral colors, it's guaranteed to compliment any outfit.

Dress Code: Beach Formal

SIMKHAI Ellerie Crystal Mini Bag

Silver metallic mini bag from SIMKHAI
Photo: SIMKHAI

While Digital Production Intern, Christian Pruitt, likes to limit the essentials she brings with her to a wedding, she also loves making a statement with the bag she chooses to carry them in. In her words, this bag is the best of both worlds. "With a small, compact design, yet a metallic and vibrant look- you're guaranteed to have a complete outfit without weighing yourself down on the dancefloor."

Dress Code: Cocktail

STAUD Bean Bag Cream

Cream bag from STAUD
Photo: STAUD

This versatile bag can be worn as a clutch, shoulder bag or wristlet—talk about options. Because it can easily be dressed up or down, it's an ideal choice to take with you throughout all the pre-wedding festivities. Wear it as a shoulder bag and pair it with jeans for the bachelorette trip, then remove the strap to wear it as a clutch on the day of the wedding.

Dress Code: Semi-Formal

BTB Los Angeles Chloe Bag

Rattan bag with pearl embellishments from BTB Los Angeles
Photo: REVOLVE

According to Senior Social Media Manager, Mina Garagozlo, pearlcore is a fashion trend that's not going anywhere. "The mix of textures paired with pearls give this purse a pop of elegance. A cute rattan bag is a must-have as a beach wedding guest and could just as easily be worn on vacation or a bachelorette trip. Who doesn't love a multipurpose piece?!"

Dress Code: Beach Formal

Loeffler Randall Rochelle Champagne Mini Bow Clutch

Metallic champagne bag with gold chain and bow detail from Loeffler Randall
Photo: Loeffler Randall

"I'm always eyeing Loeffler Randall handbags and this one has 'chic and elegant wedding guest' written all over it.," says Senior Manager of Commerce Content Strategy, Emily Platt. "The metallic pleated fabric and signature bow are undeniably dressy with just the right dose of playfulness, but the twisted metal chain is what really seals the deal. I love the compact look of clutches but crave the convenience of an optional strap." We couldn't agree more.

Dress Code: Formal

Loeffler Randall Trudie Natural Frame Clutch

Raffia clutch bag with gold chain from Loeffler Randall
Photo: Loeffler Randall

"I'm a big fan of anything raffia. (Every summer, I seem to add yet another woven basket bag to my wardrobe. It's good to have choices though)," says Deputy Editor, Esther Lee. "This seasonal option from Loeffler Randall has several versatile features necessary for a wedding guest bag: it can be styled multiple ways, the gold chain means you won't lose sight of it at the afterparty, and—saving the best for last—it can be recycled for future casual events too." You've sold us on it, Esther.

Dress Code: Beach Formal

Reformation Mini Chiara Convertible Bag Chartreuse

Mini chartreuse bag from Reformation
Photo: Reformation

Editor, Samantha Iacia, has been eyeing this bag since Reformation launched their new handbag collection, and it's certainly no mystery why. "The shape is unique, which gives the style a little bit of an edge, and the mini size is perfect for weddings or date nights." It's polished enough for special occasions, but Samantha loves the idea of pairing it with jeans and a tee too.

Dress Code: Semi-Formal

Aldo Alamaendrai Mini Crossbody Bag

Silver mirrorball-inspired bag with crossbody chain from Aldo
Photo: Aldo

Make the whole room *shimmer* without breaking the bank! Fashion Content Strategist, Nic Taliaferro, believes this mirrorball-inspired bag screams 'party' and is practically begging to head to the dancefloor. " Luckily, the crossbody chain makes for easy wear while you dance to "Cuff It" and catch the bouquet. Not feeling a crossbody vibe? Switch it up by removing the chain and so you can carry the top handle in the crook of your arm. This bag offers trend, versatility and sparkle all for under $40."

Dress Code: Cocktail

Olga Berg Estelle Black Feather Clutch

Black feather clutch from Olga Berg
Photo: Olga Berg

What does Executive Editor, Lauren Kay love most about this bag? Well, it's black, the most versatile neutral in her opinion. "I adore the feathers—just a little something EXTRA without being overdone." She would pair this with the obvious, a black dress, but believes it would also add a little interest to a simple jewel-toned slip dress or patterned gown. "The size is pretty great too—large enough for all your essentials without being too big to clutch."

Dress Code: Cocktail

Kate Spade Anna Medium Envelope Clutch

Ivory envelope clutch with gold chain from Kate Spade
Photo: Kate Spade

You're guaranteed to have this handbag on repeat all wedding season long. It's minimalist design and ivory color makes it the perfect compliment to any look. While it may look compact, it has enough space to hold all the wedding-day essentials, including your cell phone, tissues, makeup and more. You'll be thankful for it when your hands are free for dancing.

Dress Code: Formal

Lulus Garden of Glam Beige Velvet Floral Sequin Clutch

Floral sequin clutch from Lulus
Photo: Lulus

When it comes to picking wedding guest dresses, Senior Weddings Editor, Hannah Nowack, prefers to keep things simple and versatile to leave room to really have fun with accessories. That's where she says this purse comes in. "I'm obsessed with the more-is-more maximalist vibe of the embellished clutch. Paired with a blush satin slip dress it would be lovely for a spring garden wedding. But it could also level up for a black-tie event if you carried it while wearing a floor-length slate gray velvet evening gown. I've got all the heart eyes for this beauty."

Dress Code: Formal

HVISK Dew Pouch

Sage green satin pouch bag from HVISK
Photo: Free People

"Sage green is my favorite sneaky neutral color – it really does go with everything!" says Fashion Content Strategist, Nic Taliaferro. "This bag not only leans into some of the summer's hottest trends while looking like it was pulled right from a late '90s dElia*s catalog, but the satin pouch style is a classic you can wear on repeat. Whether you're wearing something dark, patterned or in a similar pastel shade, this bag adds a delicate pop of color to any wedding guest 'fit."

Dress Code: Casual

Lulus On The List Cream Marble Acrylic Box Clutch

Cream marble acrylic box clutch from Lulus
Photo: Lulus

For the wedding guest who's always one step ahead of the trends: Here's a pearl-inpired bag to top off your mermaidcore ensemble. "White, another knock-out neutral, pairs well with prints and patterned dresses. I love the boxy shape of this clutch," says Executive Editor, Lauren Kay. "Best of all, it's virtually impossible to stain thanks to its acrylic make up!"

Dress Code: Formal

FYI: Purse for Wedding Guest Etiquette

Got questions? We've got answers. Here's five FAQs related to wedding guest purses, plus, our expert advice.

What should a wedding guest bring in a purse?

Aside from the essentials, like your phone, wallet and keys, you might also want to consider packing lipstick and pressed powder for touch ups—after all, it's going to be a long day. Safety pins and bobby pins are always good to have on hand in case of a wardrobe or hair malfunction. Oh, and if you're a cryer, tissues are a must-have for the ceremony.

What kind of purse can you bring to a wedding?

Your wedding guest purse should reflect both your personal style as well as the event's dress code. Not to worry—with so many amazing options out there, it's easy to find an option that strikes the perfect balance.

Can I carry a white purse to a wedding?

While white is certainly a color to avoid for your wedding guest dress, when it comes to shoes and accessories, it's fair game. Of course, you should avoid wearing anything overly eye-catching that might distract from the couple.

Can you wear a tote bag to a wedding?

Despite being stylish and oh-so convenient, we recommend saving your tote bag for more casual events. If you're a member of the wedding party, however, it may come in handy for carrying makeup and hair supplies to and from the bridal suite.

How big does my purse need to be to fit my phone?

The short answer: It depends on the size of your phone. Be sure to read the product description of the bag you're eying to be sure it will fit your phone and other wedding-day essentials. Typically, an 8 inch by 5 inch handbag will offer enough space for a phone along with a couple other items.

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