Women's purses are everywhere. They change in style and fabrics with the season and with other fashions. They come in a dizzying array of styles: shoulder bags, couriers, hoboes, buckets, saddlebags and backpacks. All of these are larger bags designed for everyday use, intended to hold any number of items. So what does a woman do when she needs a purse for just the necessities, not one that will hold her gym clothes? She uses a clutch purse!

A clutch purse is not seen on an everyday basis as often as it used to be, but these little gems are still around in various forms. They are usually small purses designed to be carried -- or "clutched" -- in the hand. Some have a detachable chain or leather strap so they can also be worn hanging from the shoulder.

The history of purses in general dates back to the Babylonian era. Purses were generally used in religious ceremonies then, and the modern wit might quip that they still have a holy significance to a woman. People figured out that they were useful for carrying money and valuables and purses became popular, worn on belts by men and women.

In the early 1800s, women began carrying reticules, the forerunner of the modern handbag, looking very much as some styles of the clutch purse look today. A lady of quality carried her handkerchief and smelling salts in her reticule, along with, perhaps, a packet of rice papers to dull a shiny spot on the face. The clutch purse has been popular ever since.

The clutch purse went out of fashion in the early 19th century, but experienced a resurgence in popularity during World War II. With rationing, the smaller clutch required less material for manufacture and fit in well with a wartime mindset.

The clutch purse has remained popular as an evening bag, although with the modern woman's lifestyle requiring her to carry her cell phone, wallet, keys, pens, calculator, PDA, and other assorted necessities, it is not a common purse for every day use. However, a look in the accessories department during the holidays or during prom season reveals the clutch purse in every shape imaginable. They come in little square boxes, triangles or heart-shapes, covered with satin, beads or brocade. They are fastened with tassels, loops, and other fanciful decorations. Leather or vinyl clutches are available for less formal events when a smaller purse is still desirable. They range in price from US$10 up, depending on design.

A woman can indulge her fantasy for an expensive-looking, fun fashion accessory when she uses a clutch purse.