Are you the type of girl who only takes their essentials with them to a party, effortlessly knowing exactly what you’ll need that night? Or are you, like me, someone who can’t work out which bits of makeup to pack, or whether or not you really need to stuff your digital camera into that elegant little clutch bag? Unfortunately, clutches are often the only way to really perfect a special outfit, because there’s something just that little bit more classy about casually tucking your bag under your arm while you sip at a martini.

So, despite their inconvenient size, here are some of the most desirable evening clutches on the high street now. They’re big enough for your phone, keys, credit card, compact and lipstick (which is, by the way, supposedly all you’ll need). These clutches are all party-ready, but most of them will be wearable well after Christmas is over – classic designs and detailing means a few of them are suitable for daywear too.

Click on the picture below to start the gallery.