Ask Belle: All-Purpose Clutch

Oct 29, 2015

Dear Belle,

If you could only own one clutch, what style would you pick?  I ask because I need one for some upcoming parties, but I can’t really afford to buy (nor do I need) more than one.  

Thanks for taking reader questions.  CS

First off, let’s cover the “don’ts” of clutch buying.  Because when you need something all-purpose, you need to separate the wheat from the chaff.

Don’t buy something with a lot of embellishments.  This heavily spangled clutch is gorgeous, but  utility piece.  It’s the second clutch — the I have my basics covered, so now I can go wild, clutch.

Don’t go small.  Sure, minaudieres are tiny and fun, but they ain’t practical.  At some point, you’re going to want to carry more than your phone, a credit card, and a lipstick.  Oh, and if you have the iPhone 6 Plus, forget about putting it in that Lilliputian bag.

Avoid all black.  Some women will tell you a black clutch is a basic, a staple, a cornerstone piece.  These women have never worn a pastel dress to a summer wedding in the South.  Black is not your most versatile selection.

Spend within reason.  Just because you’re only buying one does not mean you need to go all-in on something pricey.  Just inspect the quality of any affordable clutch; a cheap-looking clutch can bring down a nice outfit.  More than a few excellent clutches can be found in the $50-$100 range.

Now, let’s pull some options.

Snip20151028_8

Sole Diva Clutch ($25)

Metallics are always a good option for a one-and-done clutch.  I like gold, so I’m all about this pale gold clutch.  This envelope clutch is also worth a look.  I also like this clutch/wallet hybrid from Hobo.

Prefer silver? This flat clutch from Lodis is really pretty.  I also like this silver foil envelope clutch.

 

Snip20151028_9

Gum Leopard Clutch ($46)

Leopard can be worn in cold weather and warm weather.  This slim clutch is a good option; I also like this large pouch-style from Mark & Graham.  For something with a bit more width to it, try this ASOS clutch.

Snip20151029_10

Clare V. Snake Clutch ($235)

Snakeskin is a great alternative to black.  This clutch is mostly black but still has some lightness to it.  This Steve Madden clutch is mostly white.  But this Topshop foldover clutch in grey is the one that takes the cake.

Ask The Edit, Style

share this post

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Katie says:

    This is my go-to evening bag. It might be a little on the large side for a clutch, but I have a lot of stuff. Love that I can wear using the chain from my shoulder or put the chain inside and carry it. Have had it for a couple of years now and it has held up really well. (Obviously only buy if you have a coupon code).

    https://factory.jcrew.com/womens-clothing/bags_accessories/bags/PRDOVR~51632/51632.jsp?color_name=pale-gold

  2. A says:

    I have a burgundy patent envelope clutch that is surprisingly versatile.

  3. Annabelle says:

    Another idea to change things up — buy a satin clutch in a neutral color, and use a brooch pinned on the bag to change the look. You could do one big brooch in the center, or several small ones in a corner. I have had great success finding inexpensive brooches at vintage stores, and in the sale area of Macys.

  4. SSC says:

    I found this at West Elm yesterday, after looking for something similar for a long time. It’s a little on the small side, but I was pleased to find something in real leather for that price.

    https://www.westelm.com/products/leather-zipper-case-medium-d3348/?pkey=cgifts-25-under&&cgifts-25-under

  5. Diana says:

    If it’s your thing, antique stores frequently have a fabulous selection of evening bags, and they rarely go for more than $15. (The antique malls with lots of individual booths will be your best bet – that way you can find the one or two sellers who specialize in vintage accessories.) The bag in my selection I reach for most often and I consider my most versatile is a gold fabric one.

  6. Kristen says:

    Stella & Dot has a GREAT envelope clutch for $59. It’s vegan suede with metallic silver thread embroidery with simulated crackled quartz with silver finish closure. It fits an ipad mini, but small enough to be sleek.

    CITY SLIM CLUTCH – SLATE GREY GEO METALLIC

Join The List

Stay up to date on the latest from Capitol Hill Style!

sUBSCRIBE

Beauty Review: Bondi Boost

As I age, I notice many changes in my body. Most are fine. Some are frustrating. Like many women, I lost a lot of hair in my postpartum phase. Being anemic for more than a year after, it didn’t grow back in to its former glory. So I’ve tried any number of shampoos, pills and […]

0

READ MORE 

Recent Posts

The Find: Shirts That Don’t Gape

I remember when Rochelle Behrens launched The Shirt — a button-down blouse with anti-gape technology (a patented internal button that keeps the look smooth). The idea seemed brilliant, but at the time, my bust didn’t require an extra button. One baby later, I understand the need for some extra security.

5

READ MORE 

The Range: Printed Shirt Dresses

If you’re preparing your wardrobe for the warmer weather, don’t sleep on shirt dresses. Casual when worn with sandals or sneaker, dressy with flats or heels, they’re great for any work situation. They’re a great piece that you can throw on any time you need to look pulled together. Here are a few choices.

6

READ MORE 

VIEW ALL POSTS

Beauty, Top Posts | March 27, 2024

Beauty Review: Bondi Boost

As I age, I notice many changes in my body. Most are fine. Some are frustrating. Like many women, I lost a lot of hair in my postpartum phase. Being anemic for more than a year after, it didn’t grow back in to its former glory. So I’ve tried any number of shampoos, pills and […]

0

READ MORE 

Fantastic Finds, Posts, Style | March 27, 2024

The Find: Shirts That Don’t Gape

I remember when Rochelle Behrens launched The Shirt — a button-down blouse with anti-gape technology (a patented internal button that keeps the look smooth). The idea seemed brilliant, but at the time, my bust didn’t require an extra button. One baby later, I understand the need for some extra security.

5

READ MORE 

Features, Posts, The Range | March 26, 2024

The Range: Printed Shirt Dresses

If you’re preparing your wardrobe for the warmer weather, don’t sleep on shirt dresses. Casual when worn with sandals or sneaker, dressy with flats or heels, they’re great for any work situation. They’re a great piece that you can throw on any time you need to look pulled together. Here are a few choices.

6

READ MORE 

Features, Monday Mornings, Top Posts | March 25, 2024

The Mondays: March 18, 2024

This weekend was a tricky one. The warm weather and bright sunshine of last weekend disappeared in a flurry of wet snow trapping our very active 18-month-old in the house with us. Plus, our babysitter cancelled, so neither of us feels ready for the week ahead. But in between making mac-and-cheese and watching Aristocats for […]

6

READ MORE 

RECENT POSTS

©2023 CAPITOL HILL STYLE | SITE BY LEIGH THE STUDIO