If you noticed during the recent Emmy Awards, many of the actresses wore very little, if any, jewelry. Gone were the heavy bracelets, chandelier earrings, and borrowed Harry Winston necklaces. In their place were bejeweled clutches which provided a stunning complement to the sleek gowns.This recent red carpet trend was something we also saw during the spring markets in New York.

Wait a minute. I thought diamonds were a girl’s best friend. Is jewelry out? Say it isn’t so!

No, of course not. However a stunning and elegant look can be achieved with the simple touch of the right jeweled handbag. It is a classic statement of “less is more.”By carrying what amounts to a little piece of art, and leaving the baubles at home, you can achieve a sophisticated, modern or even vintage style.

The most elegant way to show off a sparkly evening clutch is to pair it with an unadorned dress; one that is free of any embellishment or fussiness. A streamlined column gown or short chiffon cocktail in any solid color works well.

While one brand has long dominated the jeweled bag market, often the price is out of reach. Today there is a bevy of designers creating these little jewel boxes, making it possible for anyone to enjoy the cache of the jeweled clutch. Whether outfitted in Austrian crystals or colorful rhinestones, these little gems come in all shapes and sizes

(though none are large); long and narrow, small and oval. Just enough room for a lipstick and smartphone.From brightly colored solids to color-blocked patterns, animal and floral prints, even feathers and stones, the fashion rage for jeweled bags is an easy way to add “Wow” to your evening look in the coming season.