Okay, forget is a strong word. A classic shoulder bag is essential in any well-rounded handbag collection, and I'm all for diversifying one's fashion portfolio. However, there's always room for a new addition—even in a 500-square-foot New York City apartment like mine—and one particular style is making a strong case for that open spot.
Heading into 2025, no handbag category is garnering more attention from celebrities, stylists, and editors than clutches, a once-dated concept that's taken a turn in the right direction thanks to a smattering of fresh shapes and designs that feel modern and timeless. At Saint Laurent, Savette, and Hermès, elongated east-west top-handle options like the Manhattan Clutch and Kelly Cut pochette have piqued the interest of everyone from Sofia Richie Grainge to Hailey Bieber. Pouch-like takes like Bottega Veneta's Lauren are proving to be equally tempting, with Rihanna and Julianne Moore both taking their burgundy options out for a spin in recent months.
As I said, you probably shouldn't ditch your curated mix of shoulder bags. That would be irresponsible. If you need space for this sleeker, more on-trend alt, perhaps you could wave goodbye to your least favorite few. Trust me—this is one addition you won't regret.
On Hailey Bieber: Saint Laurent suit, shoes, and Small Clutch Bag in Satin With Chain ($2650)
For a Rhode event at Funke in Beverly Hills, Bieber made one of her first major public appearances since giving birth to her son, choosing an off-the-runway S/S 25 suit by Saint Laurent for the occasion. With it, she carried one of the brand's new burgundy satin clutches, which would go just as well with an elegant gown or a white T-shirt and vintage pair of jeans as it did with her tailored suit. That, my friends, is the power of a good clutch.
On Rihanna: ACNE Studios dress; Balenciaga boots; Saint Laurent SL M119 Blaze Sunglasses ($960); Bottega Veneta Maxi Lauren 1980 ($8200)
Whenever Rihanna wears something, it's going to go viral. That's practically a fact at this point, and her Bottega Veneta Lauren clutch bag is no exception to that rule. The mogul wore the maxi version of the bag in Barolo recently with an ACNE Studios F/W 24 sweaterdress, Balenciaga thigh-high boots, and Saint Laurent sunglasses, riling up the internet as per usual. Over the last few months, her bag has been gaining traction in fashion circles, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Elsa Hosk also frequently carry it.
On Sofia Richie Grainge: Dolce & Gabbana blazer and shoes; Hermès bag; Jennifer Behr Kate Headband ($132); David Yurman jewelry
If any celebrity's been advocating for clutches, it's Sofia Richie Grainge. For years, she's been loyal to the cause, carrying the chicest, most elevated styles by Hermès, Bottega Veneta, Loro Piana, and more. Her go-to is the Hermès east-west Kelly Cut pochette, which she usually carries in black with gold hardware, but she has dabbled in other colorways as well.
On Kendall Jenner: The Row dress, bag, and shoes
Kendall Jenner emphasized elegance with each of her looks during Paris Fashion Week this season, mostly donning The Row throughout her trip. This look from the brand's Resort 2025 collection included a black clutch that transcends eras and trends, making it a perfect purchase for any French woman or anyone who wants to look like a French woman.
On Zoe Saldaña: Max Mara shirt and skirt; Serapian Secret Mosaic Metallic Leather Clutch Bag ($2160)
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My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic, Rich-Looking Nordstrom FindsEverything is under $150.
