There is no denying that the last year has fostered a newfound appreciation for an evening out. Now more than ever, we're craving glam. We're craving the feeling of dressing up in our most extravagant ensembles and hitting the town. Enter the minaudière. Perhaps the most glamorous bag family, the minaudière clutch is the true belle of the ball.
Originally designed by luxury jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels in 1930 and inspired by American socialite Florence Gould, the minaudière has become a symbol of elegance. And before we reveal our favorite minaudière clutches, let's clarify what exactly makes a minaudière a minaudière.
What Is a Minaudière?
Simply put, the minaudière is a hard-cased evening bag typically made in oval, rectangle, or abstract silhouettes small enough to hold personal items like lipsticks or keys. Think over-the-top embellishments and stunning, dynamic shapes. Minaudière clutches were made for an evening out and designed to make a statement.
Minaudière vs. Clutch
When differentiating between a minaudière and a clutch, remember that minaudière clutches are more rigid, fanciful pieces—almost like works of art. And minaudière clutches are designed to carry the bare minimum, whereas clutches were created to quite literally be clutched under the arm. Clutches are softer, come in a vast range of sizes and fabrications, and can be worn beyond a night out.
Shop Minaudière Clutches
Très élégant.
Can never go wrong with a little pearl detailing.
This has some serious shelf appeal—it looks just as good in your room on display as it does out at night.
The minaudière for the minimalist.
Judith Leiber has become the queen of minaudière clutches.
Style this with a monochromatic neutral look for a more modern approach to the minaudière.
Spoiler alert: This comes in a nude colorway that is just as good as this one.
A classic.
It's true. No minaudière clutch is the same, and that's the beauty.
Need a minaudière clutch for NYE? This is the one.
Edie Parker is another brand renowned for its quirky minaudière clutches.
Absolutely obsessed with this shape and the juxtaposition of the embellishments with the soft satin.
Like we said, we love a little pearl.
The LBD of minaudières.
You heard it here first: Pale pink is never going out of style.
Have fun exploring the different shapes of the minaudière to find the perfect one for your style.
Simple yet elegant.
The perfect minaudière for your next beach getaway.
This one has an incredibly sassy personality.
This minaudière embodies all of the design elements—an angular shape, full details in the tassels, and subtle embellishment.
Introducing your summer minaudière.
The everyday minaudière.
If you don't love sparkle, opt for a pattern like this marble one from Cult Gaia.
A minaudière meant for any occasion.
Next: 27 Chunky Gold Rings That Will Elevate Any Outfit.
-
Cooler Winter Outfits Means Wearing This Pretty Bag Trend With Your Big CoatJust give me Jennifer Lawrence's wardrobe, please.
-
Fashionable People Would Like These Fall Trends From Shopbop's Surprise SaleSuede! Jeans! Sneakers!
-
This Is the Chic Bag Trend Fashion People Swear By Right NowBring on the compliments!
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—These 25 Elevated and Rich-Looking Nordstrom Fall Sale Picks Have My AttentionChic and affordable? Yes, please.
-
Forget the Wrong-Shoe Theory—Zoë Kravitz Just Made the Wrong-Bag Theory a ThingThis was inevitable.
-
Fashionphile's Done the Research: These Are the It Bags of 2025The 2025 Resale Report is here.
-
Not Ready to Let Go of Sardine Summer? This Chic Bag Launch Will Help You Carry the Vibes Straight Through FallThe first drop sold out, so these won't be around for long.
-
28 Accessories That'll Make Every Fall Outfit Look ElegantThese are the add-ons you need.
