Grab Bag

Grab Bag

Party Bags Buying Guide

So you've found those elusive party shoes and a show-stopping outfit, now it's time to find that perfect party bag to finish off your festive look. From clutch bags and cross body to sequin bags and much more, there are so many different party bags to choose from that it can cause a real dilemma when it comes to buying one.

Here's a useful buying guide on what to consider when choosing your new party bag this festive season.

Colour

Avoid trying to match the colour of your party bag with your outfit, instead if you want to colour match go for one that is a similar shade to your shoes; it'll pull your look together without being over the top. Go for a black, silver or gold party bag if you don't want to colour match, it'll go with pretty much any outfit colour and you'll be able to use it again too.

Size

Probably one of the most important aspects to consider (after the colour of course!), the size of your party bag needs to not be too small or not too big. Most women prefer a clutch bag because it's small enough to carry around and has just enough room for those essentials. If you like to take lots of bits and bobs on your nights out then a larger party bag like a cross body bag, shoulder bag or grab bag is probably best; you don't want to leave your lip gloss behind and then regret it later in the night.

Detail

If your festive outfit is all about the bling then try not to choose a party bag with too much detail otherwise it'll be too much and you won't make the most of your look; opt for a simple one instead and let your outfit do the talking. If you've gone for understated and simple this festive season then feel free to add sparkle with a glitter, jewelled or sequin clutch bag.

Strap

If you're all about femininity then a classic clutch bag will finish off your look perfectly, however, if you're clumsy or forgetful you'll probably end up leaving it by the bar so go for a party bag with a strap instead like a shoulder bag or grab bag. You may even want to take a look at cross body bags that are so fashionable right now as well as being safe. The beauty about an across body bag is that you'll be able to the dance floor without having to dance around your handbag too.

Price

The festive season is a pricey one so don't overspend on your party bag – it's just not worth it. Set yourself a reasonable budget and try to stick to it, you'll be better spending more money on your outfit or shoes rather than your party bag. Only go over your budget on a party bag if you think you'll use it time and time again.

More top tips of buying your perfect party bag:

• A bag with a zip closing is much safer and practical than on open one; it'll keep your bits and bobs safe when your throwing shapes on the dance floor.
• Don't buy the first bag you see, there is so much choice these days that you'll probably see another one you like more.
• A party bag with a side pocket will prove useful and practical for keeping things in you regularly use like your money…or lip-gloss!
• A party bag with an inside zip pocket will give you a safe and secure place to keep your house keys or your money.

About the Author

This useful article was written and distributed by Viva La Diva, a leading online retailer of designer shoes, boots, handbags and fashion accessories from the biggest brands and most exclusive designer names.

What books or book would u buy for a grab bag gift thing for two sides of your family during X-mas?

I have some members who are Catholic and are into there religion despite that I was possibly thinking The Di Vinci Code for it is a good exciting mystery book.

If they are Catholic, I wouldn't get them The DaVinci Code! Most likely you'd offend them, which isn't exactly the purpose of a Christmas gift. Honestly, it doesn't matter how well written a book is, if it's a gift and they might be upset by it.

There are books you could get that are just interesting information. Every year I get a book or two for a friend who doesn't enjoy reading, but loves curious information. For instance, 1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die or 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die or 1,000 Places to See Before You Die: A Traveler's Life List. (There are a bunch of these 1001 books available for different things like gardens, etc.)

You could also get one that has a bunch of trivia like 1001 Things You Didn't Know You Wanted to Know. (There is a whole series of Politically Incorrect Guide To books that are a lot of fun - i.e., Get it. Write: The Politically Incorrect Guide To Writing Professionally: Featuring Perfect Punctuation with Percy Perfect by Sam Seymour.)

You might also consider getting a "coffee table book" like 100 Photographs That Changed the World by Editors of Life Magazine or books with pictures from a particular place that your family members like.

Get something that is more generic and won't offend anyone. Novels can be chancy, because people have all different tastes. Get something unusual and chances are you'll appeal to a greater amount of people.

Cover Tune Grab Bag - "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da"