A clutch is named for how it is carried: held, or clutched, in the hand. It is a small purse designed for occasions where you need to carry very little and want the bag to be part of the outfit rather than a container attached to it.
Many include a detachable chain so the same bag can also be worn from the shoulder, which is worth looking for.
What fits in one
More than people expect. A clutch is genuinely roomy for its size and will take a pen, keys, a mobile phone, money, cards, a handkerchief and pins without difficulty.
That is the whole design brief: hold the essentials through an evening, and look like an accessory while doing it.
Shapes and materials
Clutches are made in a range of shapes: heart-shaped, square and rectangular box forms, and cylindrical.
Fabrics run from silk and satin through to rayon, crochet, vinyl and microfibre. Leather is the most popular material, with Italian leather in the highest demand. Most clutches carry rich embellishment, since the bag is meant to be seen.
How to hold one
This sounds trivial and it is not. The two main shapes are carried differently, and getting it wrong makes an expensive bag look awkward.
- Small clutches are held high and close to the body.
- Envelope styles are held with the arm hanging down.
Practical tips
- Choose one with a removable shoulder strap. It doubles the number of occasions the bag works for.
- A black clutch is the one to own first. Its versatility means it will cover most occasions on its own.
- Consider dyeing. If you cannot find a color to match an outfit, the material can be dyed. Ready-to-dye clutches are also made, usually in peau de soie.
Popular styles
Materials and finishes
Italian leather, patent leather and suede lining are all widely used. A clutch can be metallic, matte or textured depending on the effect you want.
Metallics are in strong demand. Beyond gold, platinum and silver, colored metallics such as burnished copper and gunmetal are popular.
Colors
Black, taupe, khaki, blue, plum, brown, pink, amethyst purple and light pastels all feature. Purple and plum are particularly fashionable.
Prints and detailing
Animal and floral prints are both common, as are geometric and abstract designs. Scalloped bodies and ruched velvet sides are popular constructions, and beads, studs, sequins, lace, ruffles and frills all appear as applied decoration.
How to spot genuine leather
If you are buying leather, these checks are worth running before paying.
- Look at the straps. Genuine leather has no kinks in them.
- Be suspicious of high shine. Leather that is overly shiny and very sleek is frequently fake.
- Weigh it. A genuine leather bag is always heavier than a fake one.
- Check the lining. It should be properly fitted and well stitched.
- Check the stitching. Even, flat against the surface, with no broken threads.
- Test the zip. It should open smoothly and evenly.
- Inspect the hardware placement and any distressing on the surface.
- Check the strap sits on the shoulder without slipping.
- Read the logo carefully. Check the center logo, the zipper and the clasp, and read the spelling closely. Local brands frequently use names almost identical to established ones.
- Ask for the certificate of authenticity, along with the hologram or monogram.
Caring for a leather clutch
- Keep it away from moisture and store it somewhere cool and dry.
- Use a good quality leather lotion to prevent cracking and drying.
- Wrap it in soft cotton cloth for storage. This keeps dust off while still letting the leather breathe, which a plastic bag does not.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell real leather from fake?
Weight is the quickest test, since genuine leather is heavier. Check also for kinks in the straps and be wary of an unnaturally high shine.
Which clutch color should I buy first?
Black. It covers the widest range of occasions on its own.
Can a clutch be dyed?
Yes, and ready-to-dye clutches are made for the purpose, usually in peau de soie.
How should a clutch be stored?
Wrapped in soft cotton in a cool dry place. Cotton keeps dust out while letting the leather breathe.
See also our handbags guide and designer handbags.
