How to Pack a Clutch

We're not afraid to admit that the clutch is an impractical bag. Not only is it tiny, but, as the name implies, you hav eto clutch it all night. And the remaining hand just isn't enough to handle the simplest of task.

Still, clutches are chic, they don't make your outfit rumple in odd places, and, well, as we said, they really are chic.

The effect is lost, howeverm when said bag bursts, spilling its contents across the floor. So we have compiled a list of suggestions on how to pack in everything you need.

.While it might sound a obsessive, you should have particular items saved specifically for clutch-carrying occassions. Think about it: you are going to an event fancy enough to require a ridiculously small bag, so you obviously want to look nice. To do this, you probably want to carry a full make-ip bag, perfume, brush and hairspray. You need to plan ahead.

.Don't try to cram in all your usual cosmetics. Hold on to any tester-sized items you might acquire: sometimes when you spend a certain amount at a favorite counter, the store gives you tiny lip glosses or moisturisers as a gift. Also, near the counter in both Boots and Faces, there are often minis that are just the right size.

.Find a foldaway brush with a compact mirror inside. Folding it reduces the size and also stops stray hairs from getting entangled in your stuff.

.Remove every item but the front door key from the key ring. You don't need anything else, and if you leave extra keys at home, there is no chance of losing them.

.If, like us, your wallet is bigger than the clutch, take our your ID, credit card and cash and put them in the bag's internal compartment. This is a good way to limit your spending too - you can only fit so much cash in a clutch.

.If you have any medication, matches, chewing gum, spare contact lenses, etc, remember that you don't need a whole box of each. We recommend you keep a gorgeous little pill box (there are hundreds of quirky ones) in you favorite clutch with just one or two of anything you might need.

Now if only we could find a way to shrink our mobile phones.