Tanya C. Ellis, Freelance Fashion Writer

They offer fashionistas a whole new world of colours, trends and shapes.

Recently, a dark cloud of boredom had obviously and painfully set over swinging an 'it' bag. Last season, everyone who considered themselves fashion wise, wanted to have the bag that everyone else had. It had to be big! Now the oversized begging-for-your-attention bags, have been retired to their super soft dust bags (bless their loyal little souls) to allow the latest must-haves their moment in the spotlight.

This horde of quieter, cooler bags whisper, not shout, under the style radar. Oh, it wasn't mentioned yet? They are clutches, very much on trend and an amazing way to add a splash of colour and pizzazz to an outfit. They are big enough for everyday use, cute and quirky enough to use as evening purses, and stylish enough to liven up the most understated of looks.

The variety of available styles is very post-'it' bag status, but offers with its arrival on the arm of a style maven, a whole new world of colours, trends and shapes. Not to mention, they are so tiny, they can effortlessly transcend from day to evening. Clutches have never looked this sophisticated in broad daylight!

The multitude

The palette is beautiful, so one will be spoilt for choice when out shopping. But the best part - because of the multitude of variety - it is unlikely that any two women will be seen carrying the same one at the same event. Even better, they come only in classic non-blasé styles which mean that they will remain trendy for a very long time. This, of course, also makes them a key wardrobe investment, going well into next year.

Big enough for everyday use to hold all your essentials

Ruffles are popping up everywhere, and clutches are not exempt

With a wide variety of styles and colours, who could get bored with a clutch? - Photos by Tanya Ellis