Style Swap: Sayonara, Shoulder Bags. Clutches Take Control

As Heidi Klum tells us, "In fashion, one day you're in, and the next you're out"—we hardly need to remind you, we're sure. This constant fashion evolution has inspired us to focus in on the little updates you can make to keep your look au courant. If we see a trend that has outstayed its welcome, we'll be the first to let you know. And we'll give you our picks for what you should swap your old stuff with to stay in the forefront of fashion.

We've seen shapeless and slouchy shoulder bags taking a back seat to sleek, structured clutches recently. Sure, it's convenient to tuck a tiny shoulder bag into that crook under your armpit and go hands free, but clutches show confidence and make you stand a little taller (shoulders back, ladies!) Get a handle on your loot by picking a large, slim clutch with a cutout for your hand (like Hobo International's school bus yellow patent Katrina $100). Opt for something oversized if you want your new clutch to hold just about as much as your favorite bag with a strap, but also plan on investing in a slimmed-down cell and wallet if you want to rock this chic look to perfection.

Maxx New York's ombré clutch ($110) in seaworthy hues of blue is both glossy and glam. This pretty patent clutch can hold more than you think—all your beauty gear, and then some.


Lindsay Lohan and Victoria Beckham have both been spotted carrying oversized versions of Dolce & Gabbana's harlequin bags ($875). Downsize a bit (for your wallet's sake, at least) and cop a clutch in the graphic black and ivory snakeskin pattern. You're sure to turn heads when you walk into the bar with this hand candy clutched in your perfectly manicured hands.

 
Expand your horizons with Nine West's Wonton clutch ($35) in so-hot-right-now orange.

Now it's your turn. Tell us what trends you think are getting a bit stale (or were never that hip to begin with) and we'll give you the stylish swaps you can make for an instant upgrade.

And peruse our Guide to Celeb It Bags for more chic arm candy options.