ASHION IS all about glamour this season, and metallic colours are the stars who stole the show. Rich gold, silver, copper and bronze, emblazoned on supple leathers; glistening beads and rich tapestries twinkled down from the runways.
   Before you jump into the new “gold rush”, beware of the rapid plummet from dynamite to disastrous with these sparkly accessories. To escape danger, apply the golden rule of fashion to this trend—‘less is more’. Add a sparkling silver or gold (or any metallic) accessory to a monochromatic outfit for an unexpected kick. Update the little black dress with one of these fabulous treasures for your holiday celebrations. Each gilded handbag packs its own unique punch, so pick one to match your festive mood.

Bold and elegant
The Chloë handbag from Zazii’s Classic Collection (1) is hip, fun, and very wearable. This jewel is hand- beaded on both sides with a luxurious matching silk lining. and it’s definitely got that “look-at-me” appeal. This little bag was born to party with its gold bracelet handle that you put on and forget about. Dangle this darling from your wrist for instant glamour. Available in silver or gold at www.zazii.com, $165.

Flirty and feminine
The Ellie evening bag from Lorelei NYC (2) nearly steals the show with its upbeat girly glamour. This silver screen beauty is made from luxurious lambskin leather with flapper-inspired beaded fringe. Swing this wristlet and you’ll feel like the star. Available in silver or gold at www.loreleinyc.com, $208.

Playful and sexy
Purrrr! The Kitten Bangle Clutch from Posh Handbags (3) is packed with enough heavy metal to make your heart race. Fashioned from toasty antique gold lambskin leather, this buttery soft wristlet is dripping with style. The silver bangle handle allows you to tuck away your essentials while adding instant va-va-voom to any outfit. Available in silver and gold at www.poshbytori.com, $89.

Bold and daring
The Stuart Weitzman Streamlines Clutch (4) is for those daring to declare their fashion independence. This striking handbag adds an edgy feel to classic elegance with its rich, silver kidskin leather and show-stopping Swarovski crystal fringe. Available at www.nordstrom.com, $350.

Fanciful and brilliant
Lulu Guinness’ Woven Satin Bag (5) is the elegant evening bag for girls with imagination. The luxurious gold, braided satin handbag hangs whimsically from a golden chain with faux pearls and fanciful charms of a shoe, purse, hand mirror, dog and gloves. Dress up with this unique gem for a “grown-up” modern twist to the little girl’s fairy tale fantasy. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com, $250.

Funky and dramatic
Ananas Leather Clutch with Flower (6) is packed with enough flare to light up your night! The eye-catching silver leather is generously gathered on a snap frame for a modern look that is just right. It’s idea for the girl who loves options: dress it up with your favourite evening gown; or sport it around town with jeans and a baby tee. Wear it with or without the fabulous flower brooch. Keep it in your paws or dangle it from your wrist with a tuck-away leather wristlet. Available in silver or gold at www.ananascollection.com, $195.

Vibrant and stunning
Alexander Müller Handbags’ Bejeweled Radiance clutch (7) is fashion royalty. Promising to be the crowning touch for your outfit, striking gold foil leather adorns a facile frame closure, while jewel-toned purple, pink and gold raised velvet dots are set into a shimmering gold tapestry. This one begs to be c carried by your majesty. Available at www.alexandermuller.com, $190.

Classic and striking
Elaine Turner’s Charlotte Envelope Clutch (8) proclaims sophisticated panache. Distinctive silver crocodile-embossed leather has a striking envelope shape and metal closure. A convenient leather shoulder strap tucks away inside, Available at www.neimanmarcus.com, $295. •

Bettijo B. Hirschi is an Alexandria, Va.-based correspondent for Lucire and the founder of Bath by Bettijo.

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