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How to Dress for a Cocktail Party

By Paula Darnell, About.com

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Carry an Evening Clutch

Jessica McClintock 'Disco' Mirrored Minaudiere

Image Courtesy of Nordstrom
When you're attending a cocktail party or an event that calls for cocktail party dress, leave the everyday handbag at home and carry an evening clutch. Stylish clutches in a variety of colors come in satin or velvet fabric, mesh, leather, or patent.

Another option, a minaudiere is a smaller metal version, which may be quite plain or outrageously glitzy. The clutch such as the one pictured, a Jessica McClintock mirrored minaudiere (Buy Direct), would fit the bill.

Whatever type of clutch you select should coordinate well with your dress, but it need not match your shoes. Matching shoes and purses are considering too "matchy-matchy" currently, so mix it up a bit.

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