Hottest handbag this season tucks neatly into any ensemble

By Kevin Cowan

Designers have women in their clutches. Or at least into them.

Clutches have become the "it" bag of spring and summer. The sleek purses are the antithesis of suitcase-sized carriers that have been such a big deal the past seasons. How many photos have we seen in magazines of size 0 starlets with bags that look like they weigh more they do? How do they keep from tipping over?

Thankfully, style makers have realized you can't live large all of the time and have done a bit of a makeover on the clutch. It's no longer just the bag a girl reaches for only for an evening out, with just enough room for the essentials. This time around, it has been transformed into a daytime-ready accessory.

Ironically, what makes the clutch more wearer-friendly is that it has become oversized. Many of them have become longer and wider. Lengths are approaching 20 inches, and widths, 10 inches. Inside, multiple pockets and compartments give them surprising functionality.

The hot shape for the oversized clutches is the envelope, which has a flap that comes across the front of the bag. Also popular is the fold-over style, which is actually a soft rectangular satchel with a handle that basically folds in half to create a clutch shape.

There are smaller clutches as well, with simple zippered top openings. Some of the more demure styles are rounded, with a cylindrical shape.

When it comes to materials used to craft them, patent shines bright this season, as do metallics. In keeping with the warm weather, some of the bags take shape in straw and rattan and lightweight fabrics. Satin gives the purses an after-five feeling. And, of course, there is supple leather.

Prints, from pretty florals to exotic animal ones, make them stand out. Details create interest, too. Studs and other hardware, pleats and bows are important. Reptile skin, real and faux, speak to the texture issue, as does top-stitching. Closures are key to design, from buckles to dead-bolt takes.

In the color game, vibrant hues, such as yellow, orange and green, take center stage, like in the shoe world. Also look for brilliant blues and pretty purples and pinks. You can't go wrong with neutrals like black, white, beige and brown.

As far as price points, one can spend as little or as much as one wants. There are high-end designer pieces in the clutch-your-heart $1,000-plus range. But for most, the sky is not the limit. There are plenty of stylish ones under $100.