Balenciaga fall 2011, Imaxtree

Answering the prayers of women everywhere who love the fashion-forward thinking of a strapless bag, but also maintain enough of a busy schedule to carry around more than the bare necessities, the envelope clutch is on the job for spring and fall 2011. Unlike its slinky, nocturnal cousin, this purse is suitable for all times and purposes. Lanvin’s utilitarian version added a new drama to the office, while Balenciaga’s opulent braided numbers were born for a night of mischief. No matter where you decide the envelope clutch fits in your life (or how much you can fit inside it) here are some options we’re craving:

Photo: Courtesy of Piperlime. Steve Madden Frequent Flyer clutch, $48, Piperlime
Photo: Courtesy of Endless. Halsea Kona Koi clutch, $65, Endless
Photo: Courtesy of Aldo. Basenji envelope clutch, $30, Aldo
Photo: Courtesy of Zara. Buck skin clutch, $89.90, Zara
Photo: Courtesy of Endless. BCBGeneration Aztec clutch, $78, Endless
Photo: Courtesy of Topshop. Mixed faux snakeskin envelope, $50, Topshop
Photo: Courtesy of Harrods. Humfrey clutch, $265, Harrods
Photo: Courtesy of ASOS. ASOS leather portfolio clutch, $99, ASOS
Photo: Courtesy of My Theresa. Marc by Marc Jacobs raffia envelope clutch, $235, My Theresa

Photo: Courtesy of Edit. Anya Hindmarch Valerie glitter clutch, $395, Edit