Nothing completes a holiday outfit [1] like a statement handbag. In fact, you may even want to set out your party-going handbags first, then build your outfits around them. Yes, they're that important.

The right handbag, for starters, fits all your event necessities, which is basically just your phone, keys, and a lipstick to reapply in between hors d'oeuvre servings. Then, to land on a style that acts as the centre point of your outfit, consider the elements of a statement handbag that most resonate with you and your wardrobe. Is colour important to you? How about sparkle? Or perhaps you like to let the size of your handbag lead the way? In any case, you'll also want to factor in matching the accessory with a complementary getup — one that looks the part without commanding attention away from the star item. Trust us, it's easier to nail than it sounds. Just try out one of these five tricks ahead.

Tip 1: Make a Splash With a Pop of Colour

Colour has a way of commanding attention, so you'll definitely want to find your way to a handbag that packs a vibrant punch. Next, you can either keep the colour in your outfit to a toned-down minimum to ensure maximum contrast or test out colorblocking with a monochrome outfit that simultaneously allows your handbag to pop.

Tip 2: Go Big or Leave It

Maybe you are on the go and need a handbag that'll take you from your daytime errands to a nighttime holiday party without a stop at home, or maybe you're just an oversize-bag enthusiast. Either way, choose your handbag wisely, and you've got yourself an opportunity for a big statement — pun intended. For this occasion, forgo your everyday tote for a shiny metallic option for a look that won't dull your outfit.

Tip 3: Pop Out With a Print

Who said you had to put animal prints away for the holidays? On the contrary, it's a guaranteed way to draw attention to an accessory, and leopard and zebra prints, for instance, contrast stunningly against holiday shades of red and green. It may be best to then steer clear of prints in your outfit and instead leave a luxe knit turtleneck or body-con dress to be the backdrop for your bag.

Tip 4: Grab Anything That Sparkles

A sparkly bag for the holidays may be a no-brainer, but this season, look out for ways you may not have yet explored to achieve the look. For instance, substitute sequins for a bag made of metal discs that create the same effect but better, or should you go for sequins, scope out a multicolor iteration with a festive pattern.

Tip 5: Bring a Furry Friend

'Tis the season for a furry or feathery bag. Pair an opulent clutch with an A-line mini and a crisp, solid-coloured top to let your handbag do the talking. Going even further, opt for a style in jewel tones such as ruby or emerald for a handbag that will almost glisten in an intimate, dimly lit setting.