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Jessica Booth is a journalist with over 10 years of experience and a freelance writer whose work has appeared on sites such as Bustle, Insider, and Refinery29.

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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 a lot of items for the night, there are a few staples you'll want a small purse for while dancing, secretly wiping tears from your eyes, or holding a drink and grabbing a passed hors d'oeuvre.

The perfect wedding guest purse should be small and compact, as a tote or anything large isn't going to look right with cocktail or party attire. Ideally, you'll have enough room for the essentials, which might include lipstick, a coin purse with some dollar bills, your ID, your keys, and your phone (give or take a few). If you want something to hang over your shoulder so your hands are free, opt for a small handbag or mini crossbody. 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).

A great rule of thumb is to choose a purse that coordinates with the color of your dress, or opt for a versatile piece that can be worn with almost anything for future events. As for budget, splurging on something expensive isn't necessary, as there are some budget-friendly options that are just as gorgeous as the designer pieces out there.

Below, we've put together a list of purses for wedding guests that run the gamut from pricey to affordable, and from colorful to more muted, versatile tones.

Colors: Black, pink, blue, white | Materials: Silk, satin, Swarovski crystal

If you're looking for something that will stand out and stand the test of time, look no further than this exquisite bag from Marina Raphael. Between the bucket silhouette, pear-shaped Swarovski crystal adornments, pink silk interior, and pink stain handle, this bag is an absolute must-have for any event, no matter the dress code.

Colors: Bone, Chartreuse | Materials: Vegan leather

This chic option will quickly become your go-to wedding guest purse, thanks to its versatility and simple colors. You can leave the gold chain on or remove it to carry as a clutch. It's small enough to look stylish, but it still holds an impressive amount of items.

Colors: Gold, silver | Materials: Brass mesh with crystals

For some glitter and glitz, opt for this metallic option that puts a dressed-up spin on the bucket bag. The crystal mesh adds so much pretty sparkle and the brass handle is a beautiful touch.

Colors: Silver, gold, black, ivory | Materials: Glass, polyester, cotton

This comes in four different basic colors, and no matter which one you pick, it's a versatile option that can also be used for many different weddings. The beading adds some sparkle and the tassel is a pretty add-on.

Colors: Gold | Materials: Caged metal

The unique sphere shape of this cage bag will really stand out, making it the perfect trendy option. Your items will also be in full view, so be sure to make everything aesthetically pleasing.

An envelope clutch is a classic option that will never go out of style. This one features YSL's signature logo, as well as a convenient magnetic closure. Small and slim, this is the ultimate party clutch.

Courtesy of Show Me Your Mumu

Colors: Beige | Materials: Faux leather

This woven and faux leather purse is definitely on the more casual side and is perfect for daytime or beach weddings. The gold hardware makes it feel more dressed up and the chunky chain is on-trend.

Colors: Multi | Materials: Fringe and raffia

This colorful bag isn't going to match everything, but it's so much fun that it's hard to resist. The multi-colored fringe and raffia are especially great for summertime weddings with a festive dress code.

This fan-shaped clutch is unique but not overwhelming, and won't distract too much attention from the rest of your look. However, be sure to keep in mind that it's a smaller size than the standard clutch, and may not fit all of your necessities.

Colors: Light siam, prosecco, jet, emerald, midnight navy, hematite, rhine | Materials: Satin, crystals

While this bag is a bit of a splurge, it's also a classic evening beaded bag that you'll probably use for countless events. Get it in a bright color like this light siam shade, or opt for something more neutral, like hematite or jet black.

Colors: Black, silver, rainbow | Materials: Satin

The boxy shape of this bag is modern and unique, but still elegant, thanks to the black satin. The double butterfly closure is a beautiful detail, and it also comes with a detachable strap so you can adjust how you want to wear it.

Colors: Peacock, prism, sherbet, carnival | Materials: Croc-embossed leather

A wristlet is a great option if you want something very small that is easy to carry throughout the entire night. This one from Brahmin is unique and funky, and comes in shiny metallic shades that are fun and colorful.

Colors: Nude | Materials: Patent leather

For something that is chic and timeless, there's this nude Christian Louboutin bag. Made of shiny patent leather, it features a unique shape and the brand's signature red interior for a pop of color.

Colors: Oyster, mist | Materials: Ostrich and turkey feathers, leather

Calling all fashion-forward brides, this feathered purse is fun, feminine, and bold. It will definitely make a statement and will be a great staple piece to keep in your closet.

If you really want to make a bold statement, then opt for this Cult Gaia bag (we're absolutely swooning over the metallic fringe). This is a trendy and very different option for a big night out or a black-tie affair.

When attending a beach wedding, you probably don't want to carry a bag made of heavy materials like suede, crystals, or velvet. Instead, opt for something like this rattan clutch, which feels just right for a ceremony by the ocean.

Colors: Green, grape, yellow | Materials: Straw, polyester

For a summer wedding, especially during the day, you typically want something that feels a bit more casual and relaxed. This fringe straw bag is a perfect fit and comes in such fun, bright colors.

Colors: Black, light silver | Materials: Viscose, leather, crystal

If you want to splurge on a designer evening bag, this Jimmy Choo option is a good pick. It's versatile so you can get a lot of use out of it, and it can be worn as a convenient crossbody.

Colors: Bougainville and 7 others | Materials: Polyurethane

Neutral shades like beige, silver, or black are great, but sometimes you just want a really bold color. This ruched clutch comes in several different bright hues, like this Bougainville shade that will stand out in any crowd.

Colors: Black, red rouge, pearl rose, white | Materials: Textile, feather

This satin clutch features crystal and feather embellishments, so it kind of has it all. The feathered detail makes it fun, and the crystals give just enough sparkle.

Colors: Multi, nude, bright pink | Materials: Acrylic, polyester

This rainbow patterned multi-colored bag is fun and unique and will be a nice pop of color against any dress. If you prefer a more subtle piece, the nude hue is a bit more understated and just as pretty.

Colors: Winter white, purple | Materials: Crocodile-embossed leather

The crocodile-embossed leather design of this bag gives it a really nice texture, and the mini size is an adorable touch. A great option if you're looking for a neutral-colored purse.

Colors: Gold metallic | Materials: Satin

The timeless design of this pleated clutch will work for almost any wedding and with almost any dress. The shimmery gold color is just as versatile, and with the snap closure, you don't have to worry about anything falling out.

Colors: Black | Materials: Faux leather

This inexpensive clutch is a great choice if you're looking for something budget-friendly. The oversized bow detail is cute, and the overall look is chic and holds a decent amount of items.

V-studded leather gives this bag a bit of an edge and the gold hardware makes it luxe. It's a pretty shoulder bag that can be worn for an evening event like a wedding or rehearsal dinner.

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 if you want something more bold, trendy, and fun that will make a statement. For a purse that can be used for almost every wedding (and more), opt for neutral shades like black, white, nude, metallic gold, or silver. For a standout piece, look for bright colors, interesting designs, and funky embellishments.

What's more, 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. Lastly, look for something that is comfortable for you. Some people might prefer to hold onto a clutch or stick it under their arms, while others might want a strap to wear with the purse instead.

The color of your bag really depends on personal preference. 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 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 something more budget-friendly, you can find great options for less than $50.

The best wedding guest purses are functional and compact. A small crossbody or shoulder bag is a great option for throwing over your shoulder. A clutch is a go-to evening bag style, as well. If you want to merge both, get a clutch with a detachable chain.

Contributing writer Jessica Booth is a freelance 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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