10 Ultra Chic (and Secretly Practical) Ways to Carry Your Essentials on Your Wedding Day
Written By Annaelle Beenstock
November 19, 2019
So you have your dream wedding gown in the works, along with the shoes and maybe a tiara to match. But then you realized — wait! — on any given day, you carry a trusted mid-to-oversize bag to hold your essentials. But on the biggest day of your life, you’re supposed to forgo your dependable sidekick?
Of course, you’re prepared to pare down (like, leave your laptop at home, OK?). But at the bare minimum you’ll need: lip balm to stay hydrated, some blotting papers (it gets steamy on the dancefloor), tissues because it’s going to be an emotional day and definitely your phone because you don’t want to miss capturing all the hilarious candids to lol at later and snap impromptu selfies with all the favorite people in your life.
Even better, you’ll have an elevated bag to re-use and re-style with the rest of your wardrobe — from dressing up a t-shirt, jeans and blazer outfit to perfecting a cocktail jumpsuit and heels ensemble. The accessory will serve as another momento from your big day and makes the most of your wedding day investment.
But with all the intricate embellishments, dramatic silhouettes and convertible and detachable dress elements, there’s an art to finding the perfect (bag) mate for your gown. So here are 10 examples of perfect pairings that complete a wedding day look and serve as a sartorial assistant to carry everything you need on your special day — so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
Joanne + Cecilie Bahnsen
Continue the country wedding-chic feel of a hand-embroidered French lace column gown — and convertible oversize ribbon-wrapped overskirt — with a simple, but elegant floral appliqué drawstring pouch cinched with pretty bows. The combination feels so breezy, yet still refined and would be perfect for a beach or outdoor winery wedding. You can even sneak in a pair of sunglasses.
Aretha + Alexander McQueen
An architectural off-the-shoulder corset gown with hypnotic lilac and silver shimmering tulle layers conjures up an enchanted, fairytale princess theme. Complete the story with a regal clutch with an opulent multi-ring handle. The sleek silver casing almost feels like a magical mirror secured with a spectacular spell-casting engagement diamond.
G-412 + Rosantica
What better way to illustrate the powerful and enchanting ocean-dwelling mermaid inspiration of for the Gala Fall 2020 collection than a majestic enamel beaded pouch that perfectly captures the beauty of coral. The precious underwater gemstone elements combined with this exquisitely hand-beaded strapless ball gown is a look fit for a sea goddess.
Judy + Edie Parker
The lustrous pearlescent lucite on this clutch, along with the glitter sparkles, reflect off of and play with the icy white and silver shimmer on this stunning hand-embroidered trumpet gown. The “MRS.” monogram, as well as the high impact of you in the gown leave no doubt that you’re the superstar of the big day. Think about enhancing the overall look with a convertible dramatic high-low silk tulle peplum overcoat, too.
Rosa + Jimmy Choo
Balance the aesthetic of an ethereal leaf and floral embroidered — and practically fairy dust sprinkled — A-line gown with a streamlined, geometric clutch. The silver glitter and crystal trim on the bag bridges the opposing, but complementary, aesthetics.
G-402 + Cult Gaia
The light, airy, ethereal layers of translucent silk tulle shimmering with the most intricate silver metallic embroidery on the gown mimics sunlight reflecting off the water and glistening scales of sea life — and seductive mermaids. Complete the romantic beach wedding theme with a transparent beaded pouch bag, which brings sunken treasure shining amidst the clear blue water and vibrant sea life to mind.
Ruth + Benedetta Bruzziches
The rounded shape of this museum-worthy plexiglass clutch fits is visually on-theme with the plunging corset silhouette and gorgeous 3D silk tulle petals on this splendid ball gown. Go for the pink pouch lining of the bag to coordinate with the light lavender peeking through the layers of silk and tulle on the dramatic ball gown skirting — and keep your essentials under wraps.
Anna + Ca&Lou
Lean into ‘80s excess and total glamour with a fully bedazzled and crystal-encrusted pouch, complete with oversize gem-topped tassels on the sides. The brazen opulence of the accessory perfectly enhances the off-the shoulder and expertly draped column gown — especially when topped with the high-drama and power-shouldered cape.