clutch

Too many straps weighing you down? Tired of feeling like a bag lady?

For those of you who want to step out of your holiday dressing comfort zone, this top five is for you. Consider it my "What to Wear on New Year's Eve That's Not a Dress" special edition.

We’ve scoured the market to bring you the best oversize clutches. These versions have taken on a new, edgier, not-at-all-ladylike, form for day or night.

'Tis the season for oh so many dinners and events, so I'm shopping for some good winter basics that I can wear to work and then straight out to any type of affair. They're not the most festive, but here is what I'll be running around in for the next few months:

Santa Barbara-based Kendall Conrad designs bags--including alligator-skin envelope clutches and cross-body leather messenger bags (kendallconraddesign.com) that are impeccably made and forever chic--a feat, according to Conrad, that is informed by constant, careful shopping.

These key pieces make it easy to strike the perfect relaxed-chic balance.From the October 2010 issue.

What's topping online fashion editor Jackie Nasser's shopping list today.What: Newport News striped straw clutch How Much: $34 I'd Wear It With: A bright tribal-print jumpsuit Buy It Here: newportnews.com...

What's topping online fashion editor Jackie Nasser's shopping list today. What: BCBG Max Azria sequin clutchHow Much: $128I'd Wear It With: A sexy white cocktail dressBuy It Here: endless.com...

What's topping online fashion editor Jackie Nasser's shopping list today.What: Big Buddha "Tahiti" clutchHow Much: $55I'd Wear It With: A boho maxi dressBuy It Here: piperlime.com...

From head-to-toe leopard to one printed clutch, Vanessa Hudgens, Kate Bosworth, and more show off the best ways to wear this sexy trend.