Large handbags serve a purpose, but not at holiday parties. Instead, consider a petite purse. All you need to do is drop in your mobile phone, lipstick, I.D., credit card, and dash out the door. These clutches double as cross-body bags when your heels come off and the dancing begins!

1. Joy Susan Kate Clutch, $382. Whiting and Davis Art Deco Convert Clutch, $3003. Whiting and Davis Chain Mesh Convert Clutch, $2114. Joy Susan Python Clutch, $38