The Perfect Purse to Wear With Every Wedding Guest Dress Code

So you’ve found the perfect dress or jumpsuit for your next upcoming wedding, but what’s next? Many wedding guests often forget about their accessories, but it's the accessories that pull an outfit together. And while choosing the perfect shoes and jewelry are essential to any ensemble, finding a flawless handbag should also be at the top of your list.

"Whether you are a guest or the main event within this special moment, I would like to point out how important it is to embrace your own sense of style, as you would normally, and not feel forced to fall within 'fashion norms', notes handbag designer Marina Raphael. "As it is the only way you will truly be present during that incredible time.” And of course, there is no better way to do that than with an accessory! 

To assist you in navigating the world of gorgeous, wedding-worthy handbags, we’ve put together a guide to help you find this practical accessory that is able to define an entire look—plus a few shopping tips. Read on for more.

The Best Purse for Each Dress Code

As you may already know, there are several standard dress codes couples follow when it comes to dictating the fashions at their wedding. These guidelines not only apply to the clothes you wear but the accessories you choose to sport, as highlighted below.

White-Tie

White-tie weddings are the epitome of formal dressing, and according to Raphael, she suggests choosing a handbag that has a more avant-garde feel. “I would recommend looking for statement pieces that complete your outfit, add texture and versatility, as well as play with the concept of what we expect a handbag to look like” advises the designer. Opt for small, traditional purses with pearl or crystal details, in muted colors like black, white, navy, or beige.

Black-Tie

For black-tie weddings, Raphael says that you can never go wrong with a small clutch with a bit of sparkle. “I recommend you look for a smaller size so that it doesn't take too much away from the rest of the outfit, yet adds its own statement with a dose of sparkle,” she says. Be sure to also choose a silhouette that's contemporary and not too trendy.

Formal or Black-Tie Optional

Formal or black-tie optional weddings allow you to have a little more fun with your handbag. Raphael recommends a purse with an “avant-garde” twist, like the Jewel Box bag from her collection. “While it still maintains its formal attire with its unique shape and construction, its sleek form and color can complement almost any evening outfit,” she says. 

Cocktail or Semi-Formal

Cocktail and semi-formal attire go hand in hand, bag-wise. Both dress codes allow for a bit more practicality in terms of the sizes you can carry. In contrast to white-tie, black-tie, and formal attire, you can opt for a slightly bigger bag as opposed to carrying a small clutch. Raphael recommends purchasing an envelope bag if attending a wedding with this dress code.

Festive

Festive dress codes are all about fun and personality, so textiles, patterns, and funky shapes will play a huge factor in choosing your bag. This is your opportunity to break out a velvet or suede handbag, or one with large prints like palm trees and seashells. Looking for a hint of glitter? Go for it! There’s nothing more festive than a bit of sparkle. You can also play around with different sizes and silhouettes—like sporting a clutch shaped like a butterfly.

Casual

While you should stay away from jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers, a casual dress code doesn't mean you have to forego style (think lightweight and comfortable fabrics that you can dance in). “A casual dress code to me would mean to surely stay away from the crystals,” says Raphael. Instead, she suggests looking for more intricate details and different patterns and textures. “My favorite for this is the Doina bag, which combines vegan leather, with organic and upcycled cotton,” she adds. 

Tropical or Destination

What is Raphael’s philosophy when it comes to destination wedding handbags? “Indulge your vacation mood by opting for fun accessories!” This means that straw or woven clutches, or small purses are the way to go. If the destination wedding is still black-tie, follow that protocol but with your own personal twist.