Do I need a wedding purse?

While you don’t need a giant tote, a small bag to hold your essentials (think phone, keys, credit cards, and ID) will come in handy for selfies and post-reception drinks at the bar.

Does my wedding purse need to be white?

Just because tradition says a bride needs to wear white, nowadays it’s all about celebrating your personal style . Find a bag that compliments your dress so your whole look will flow together in any action shots your photographer captures.

Are wedding purses expensive?

Some brides choose to splurge on a brand name bag, but others decide to grab something less pricey. There are plenty of gorgeous options under $50, so don’t feel like you have to break the bank for something swoon-worthy to hold your essentials.

18 Wedding Purses to Carry on Your Big Day

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bride carrying purse — Photo by Lucy Cuneo

When it comes time to pull together your entire bridal look, there’s a chance you bypassed one of the most essential accessories: a wedding purse. While you might not have considered that you’ll need a bag when you’re a bride, the truth is, you probably still want access to some essentials, even on your special day.

No, you don’t need to carry your entire “emergency kit” around (that’s a duty for a bridesmaid!), but having a purse for your phone, home or hotel key, lipstick, credit cards, and ID is vital for touch-ups, selfies, and any post-reception drinks at the bar.

Considering your purse will probably make an appearance in at least a few photos, you’ll want it to compliment your look—especially if you keep the celebration going after your sparkler send-off. If you’re wondering what type of bag you’ll need, you’re in luck! We’ve done the research and narrowed down our favorite wedding purses to suit every bride’s vision.

Read on for the best wedding purses to carry on your big day—and beyond!

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Most Sparkle: Marina Raphael Evangelie in Iridescent

bridal handbag in iridescent — Courtesy of Marina Raphael

Upgrade your bridal 'fit with this show-stopping handbag by designer Marina Raphael. Made of iridescent Swarovski crystal mesh, this glamorous and modern purse is the perfect contrast to an all-white ensemble.

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Favorite Splurge: Jimmy Choo Callie Bag

Rich ivory satin with pearl embroidery makes the luxurious Callie bag from Jimmy Choo a real treat. The best part is it can be worn two ways: as an elegant evening pouch or over your shoulder like a traditional purse.

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Best Rewear Value: Lulus Mirror Intuition Clutch

Between the soft colors, the silver embroidery, and the appealing price tag, it’s hard to beat this bridal favorite from Lulu’s. The mirror accents add a bit of sparkle and the removable silver chain can quickly turn it into a crossbody.

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For the Fun-Loving Bride: Shirdee Imports BRIDE Clutch

You’re the guest of honor, so why not celebrate your VIP status? This playful, beaded clutch from Francesca’s can be carried over your shoulder or as a clutch and makes the perfect honeymoon or bachelorette party accessory as well.

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Contemporary Favorite: BHLDN Torelle Bag

This envelope clutch is an all-time favorite for brides thanks to its ivory beading, scalloped flap, and simple gold chain. Bonus: It can easily fit your phone, lipstick, and tissues.

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For a Destination Wedding: BHLDN Poolside Susy Wristlet

If you’re heading to a tropical location for the big day, this pearl-studded basket wristlet from Poolside is a must. Bonus: It also doubles as the cutest honeymoon purse if you’re headed somewhere tropical post “I do.”

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Best Beadwork: Jumz Halima Crossbag

Rows and rows of cream-colored pearl beads make up this spectacular bag from Jumz. Not only will it hold your wedding day essentials, but it’s so gorgeous you’ll definitely want your photographer to grab some detail shots of its exterior.

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Flirtiest Purse: Loeffler Randall Rayne Pleated Frame Clutch

Say hello to your new favorite accessory. The sassy plissé fabric and big, bold bow on the Rayne pleated clutch pair beautifully with a sleek dress or a rose gold wedding color palette.

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Boho Favorite: Petit Kouraj Ecru Mini Fringe Bag

For bohemian brides wanting a bag that fits their theme, it’s hard to beat individually sewn fringe and a netted structure. Plus, since the Ecru mini comes with an adjustable crossbody strap, you can mix up your look post-celebration.

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For the Fashion-Forward Bride: Anima Iris Zaria Bag

It’s hard not to fall in love with this unique, trapezoidal leather bag from Anima Iris. Made to order from 100 percent leather and coming in close to 20 colors, the Zaria is completely covetable.

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For the Eclectic Bride: Joanna Vanderpuije New Wave Envelope Clutch

Belgium vegetable tanned leather, sparkle foil, and hand-stitched natural linen thread make this meticulously crafted purse an exciting choice for a bride who likes her accessories to stand out.

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Beach Wedding Favorite: Scully & Scully Shell Clutch

While you might not have considered carrying your essentials in a shell, we can’t get over how adorable this unique clutch is from Scully & Scully. We’re officially considering this a beach wedding essential!

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Vintage Glam Favorite: Zhuu Beaded Fringe Clutch

Gatsby brides and lovers of glamour need look no further than this glittering, vintage-style clutch. It’s small enough to not get in the way but it packs enough undeniable opulence that’ll add to your wedding day look.

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For the Party Bride: Olga Berg Ellie Crystal Mesh Bag

Light up the room with crystals and get the party started with this ring handle beauty! The non-stop shine and contemporary design of the Ellie will carry over from formal ceremony to post-reception party at the club.

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Best Allover Pearls: Santi Gemelli Clutch

For many brides, pearls are the definition of beauty and romance, so a noteworthy bag emulating that vision is a decadent wedding treat. We guarantee you'll find extra reasons to put this exceptional clutch on display during your big day.

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Chicest Hardshell: Jimmy Choo Glitter Clutch

If you’re looking for a sleek bag that will keep your wedding day essentials safe, Jimmy Choo’s Sweetie is both fashionable and functional. Coarse glitter elevates the style and the hardshell exterior ensures your valuables make it home in one piece.

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Most Romantic: Neely & Chloe Floral Bag

It doesn’t get more romantic than a floral pattern, which is why we can’t stop obsessing over this bag from Neely & Chloe. The removable shoulder strap makes it especially elevated and adaptable.

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For the Functional Bride: Minku Ebute Metta Fringed Clutch

This Nigerian-made, pewter-colored bag is small and beautiful, but it’s also mighty. The petite purse has two internal compartments and expandable sides to fit all of your essentials, and its fabulous fringe detail elevates it to a fashion-forward fave.

What to Look for in a Wedding Purse

When it comes to wedding purses it's important to select a style that not only reflects your bridal aesthetic but complements your wedding outfit, too. Looking for a wedding purse to match your glamourous personality? Opt for a clutch covered in pearls or shimmering crystals and beads. Going for a more minimalist look? Sleek and simple envelope clutches or architectural hardshell purses make the perfect complement to any pared-back look. Once you've found your dream wedding purse, make sure to check that it can fit all of your wedding day essentials and is comfortable and convenient to carry.

FAQ

Do I need a wedding purse?

While you don’t need a giant tote, a small bag to hold your essentials (think phone, keys, credit cards, and ID) will come in handy for selfies and post-reception drinks at the bar.
Does my wedding purse need to be white?

Just because tradition says a bride needs to wear white, nowadays it’s all about celebrating your personal style. Find a bag that compliments your dress so your whole look will flow together in any action shots your photographer captures.
Are wedding purses expensive?

Some brides choose to splurge on a brand name bag, but others decide to grab something less pricey. There are plenty of gorgeous options under $50, so don’t feel like you have to break the bank for something swoon-worthy to hold your essentials.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Rachel Varina is a social media, digital marketing, and editorial expert with over seven years of professional writing experience. Her work has appeared on sites such as Betches and Elite Daily.

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