Pick a black, silver, gold or graphite handbag for a restrained, glamorous take on an evening bag. By keeping the color palette confined to neutrals or metallics, you let your dress be the star of the show. Pick a brushed silver minaudiere clutch or a small, crystal-encrusted black evening bag. If you select black on black, incorporating different textures, such as satin, sequins, beads or suede, adds some visual interest to your monochromatic look.

Let your black evening dress be the canvas for color by choosing a bag in a vivid hue. Rich jewel tones are especially appropriate for eveningwear and also look stunning when paired with black. Opt for a ruby, sapphire or amethyst clutch in a silk or satin fabric or make a bold statement with a bright fuchsia or yellow bag. Extremely vibrant colors are most appropriate if the evening event is less formal, but don’t shy away from color all together regardless of the formality level-- a bright pop from an eye-catching shade adds excitement to a little black dress.