No doubt about it: 2019 has been the year of the clutch. Of course, we have Daniel Lee at Bottega Veneta to thank for that. He gave us The Pouch—undoubtedly the

reason why clutch bags have become a fashion staple. Spotted on celebs and street style stars alike all year long, it was the trending bag of choice for so many of the style stars we love. Whether worn with jeans and tee or a red carpet look, the clutch reached new levels of outfit possibilities. They were simply everywhere.

As an inspiring fashion writer in my teens, I remember thinking of women holding clutch bags as the pinnacle of chicness. Tucked under one's arm, maybe with a coat hanging off one's shoulders, probably holding a glass of prosecco. To me, there was nothing cooler. I pictured myself embodying the likes of Carrie Bradshaw when I would tuck one under my arm for a school party. Now, here I am a decade later and they've come back, making for so many cool outfit opportunities.

It's not just The Pouch (with its investment-level price point) that we're loving when it comes to clutch bags, either. There are so many to love—from quilted versions through to animal print and vintage designer treasures. Keep scrolling to discover how the fashion set have been styling their clutch bags recently and shop my edit of the best ones—from designer to high street to vintage.