Cosmetics Bags that Pull Double Duty

Cosmetics bags that can pull double duty as clutches are not only handy, but economical. While these may look like pouches and wristlets, they’re priced as cosmetics cases, a confusing yet very exciting realization. It’s a trick designers are playing with us. I’m here to help you game the system, though, and work on a New Year’s resolution – to be a better Frugal Snob for 2014!

Jonathan Adler Double Sided Large Pouch:: The designer embroiders “love” and “lust” on either side of this pouch – fitting, as I’m feeling both for this giant case. It’s great for fitting all of my travel odds and ends (tech cords, toiletries, etc.) that I hate just throwing in the suitcase. On Shopbop for $98.

Sophie Hulme Gold Side Make Up Bag: From the front this may seem just an ordinary black bag, from the side you have seriously show stopping hardware – triangular gold-plating. On Shopbop for $297.

Givenchy Pandora Wristlet: All right, this is a wristlet, not a makeup bag. If you carry large totes, this can more than do the job, though! At Barneys New York for $570.

Chanel Black Caviar Cosmetics Case: Chanel has a vanity bag for Spring with a similar shape. Get a jump on the style with a vintage piece that comes at a fraction of the cost. On Portero for $650 (from $995).

Alexander McQueen De Manta Cosmetics Bag: This is so stunning it’s almost a shame to use it as a cosmetics bag. Get a metallic version half off on NET-A-PORTER. At Matches for $373.