https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 04 Apr 2026 13:14:22 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1365299 Mon, 29 Sep 2014 13:37:31 +0000 Karoline 1365299@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I usually wear big bags, but when going out for more formal parties and dinners I like to use my Chanel 2.55 as a clutch </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1363102 Fri, 26 Sep 2014 03:02:04 +0000 Janet 1363102@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I entered the clutch waters with an inexpensive one (I think it was maybe $50) and used it and liked it so much I have since amassed a bit of a collection! I carry them frequently -- for day or evening. Sometimes I'll pop my clutch into a tote along with iPad, water bottle, etc, if the day's activities require it. Then I can just carry the clutch to run an errand, etc., and leave the tote in my car or studio. </p> <p>I do like the ones that have a detachable strap, so I can go hands-free when needed. I have a black one like that which has become a workhorse. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1363088 Fri, 26 Sep 2014 02:52:51 +0000 DonnaF 1363088@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Ha, ha, ha!&nbsp; I stick my clutch in a compartment of my over the shoulder bag because I often want to carry either my reading or sun glasses, a small notepad, and other items that won't fit in the clutch.&nbsp; When I first got it, I carried the clutch only.&nbsp; Then, I started to attend meetings.&nbsp; </p> <p>My first clutch was flattish like an envelope and it had one of those chains that you can tuck inside.&nbsp; I decided I hated it; the chain connections were too far apart; my preference would be to have a wristlet band, i.e. something nearly impossible to find.&nbsp; The other thing is that I don't have full use of my hands; they curve a bit like claws.&nbsp; This means that a baguette rather than flat shape is easier for me to hold in my hands or tuck under my pits.&nbsp; That shape also holds a bit more!&nbsp; It's not quite as elegant but oh well.</p> <p>The ill-fated envelope clutch was from F21.&nbsp; The clutch I love was from NR and cost quite a bit more since it's leather.&nbsp; Made the same stupid Hobo International mistake I made on a HI bag:&nbsp; Their lovely blue color doesn't hold up too well.&nbsp; But dang!&nbsp; It goes with everything and is so pretty.</p> <p>If it were me, I would probably buy a new shape bag at a lower price point. . .That leopard one is great, however. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362480 Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:24:34 +0000 CocoLion 1362480@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have been using a clutch for almost 3 years, off and on. &nbsp;Once I left a clutch at a Nordstrom, with lots of valuables in it. &nbsp;Fortunately it was returned, intact! &nbsp;So I have learned a few strategies to prevent this from happening again. &nbsp;First, I now prefer clutches with a hidden chain strap or optional cross body strap. &nbsp;So that when I am out and about I have hands-free carry&nbsp;options. &nbsp;The other thing I do is carry a tote and double bag it. &nbsp;In many cities in CA they are outlawing plastic shopping bags so the tote serves as a place to put my purchases, in addition to the clutch. &nbsp;I guess you might ask what is the point of the clutch, if you also have to carry a tote. &nbsp;(Hmmm) But I counter this by saying that&nbsp;I take simple pleasure in the look and feel of a leather clutch, and it makes me happy every time I&nbsp;pull it from the tote!</p> <p>I think totes are very chic and they force you to carry less stuff, which has made a big difference to my shoulders. &nbsp;So another selling point with that.</p> <p>As for the leopard, I got a pair of leopard ankle strap pumps last year. &nbsp;They are my one and only pumps and fancy, going out shoe. &nbsp;I am astounded at how versatile they are! &nbsp;They work in every season, and with shades of white, brown and black, they cover all bases. &nbsp;Leopard truly <b>is</b> a neutral! </p> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/"></a><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/"></a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362472 Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:13:32 +0000 catgirl 1362472@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I fantasize about carrying a clutch but I just have not found them practical - I am a hands-on person and feel hobbled by having to carry something that way.&nbsp; Often I have a dog leash in one hand already, and am carrying kid-related gear in the other.&nbsp; So I only use them for dressy occasions and otherwise just drool over them, like this one. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362458 Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:01:44 +0000 Echo 1362458@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I LOVE daytime clutches. Once you get used to carrying them, they really aren't more inconvenient than other bags, IMO. And I get compliments all the time when I carry them, too.&nbsp;</p> <p>I do agree with Thistle, though, about not carrying them while one has infants or toddlers. That never would have worked for me when my children were younger. First, I needed to carry a lot more than I do now, and I needed a way to keep the bag on my person and still have both hands free, so a shoulder strap was imperative.&nbsp;</p> <p>If you love the bag and want it to work, it likely will. Like anything new, there's a learning curve. If you give up after carrying it once or twice you will never get used to it or get to the point where it becomes easy. If you force yourself to carry it often, you will get used to it and find that it isn't inconvenient anymore.</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362452 Thu, 25 Sep 2014 03:37:23 +0000 sparlingo 1362452@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love clutches, especially those Clare Vivier foldover type clutch bags.</p> <p>I don't own any. Why? Two reasons:</p> <ol> <li>I'm the most forgetful person on the planet. If it's not strapped to me (i.e. crossbody bag) I will leave it in a restaurant, at someone's house, etc. </li> <li>Cost. The ones I like are $200+. Just can't justify that right now while on maternity leave with 2 little ones and a yet-to-be-employed, newly graduated husband.&nbsp;</li> </ol> That said, if I owned one and were a little less absent minded, I'd wear it all the time. I love the look of a clutch bag with a casual outfit. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362431 Thu, 25 Sep 2014 02:50:31 +0000 Elly 1362431@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm just so not a bag girl. That is a gorgeous clutch and while I rarely envy purses, I have gawked at clutches. Still, I don't wear lipstick, so on my non-work packing list I usually have only my cell (which is bulky but smaller than most smart phones), a card case, chapstick, medication, and keys, and never carry my sunglasses in a bag. Unless I have a skirt on (which means I usually have a topper with pockets with me) I put the cell in one pocket, the wallet in the other, the chapstick in a front pocket, the keys in the other, so that just leaves the meds to deal with. <br />Maybe I should look into a clutch.<br />That said, I think I would be worrried about where to put it when I am looking at meat in the grocery store, and would want to disinfect it often. <br />That is gorgeous. Unless you think that it will sell out and become an "if only" item I'd buy something inexpensive in the same size and style and use it for a week. If you like it, pounce. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362425 Thu, 25 Sep 2014 02:42:15 +0000 Jaime 1362425@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love the look of clutches, but rarely find them practical for my day. My solution has been to thrift them so I can have an imaginary clutch lifestyle and still use the $200 for shoes :-). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362381 Thu, 25 Sep 2014 01:33:10 +0000 Anonymous 1362381@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I use a clutch most days. They are handy to put in my gym bag or any other bag for classes or meetings and still have everything ready if I want to stop at a shop or run an errand while out. I also do what Gaylene does, laying the clutch on my lap at a restaurant secure under the napkin. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362340 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 23:48:53 +0000 ma342 1362340@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've never owned a clutch. I like the look of them, but I can't deal with bags that don't leave both hands free, </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362337 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 23:42:01 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1362337@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've never had a bigger clutch either, although I do have one on order as we speak that I'm hoping will work for my upcoming trip to Las Vegas and my friend's wedding. I do have a few small wristlets to use for special occasions when I don't need to carry much. I just put them on my lap when I'm sitting.</p> <p>I personally need a hands free option for everyday. I wouldn't spend a lot on a clutch if I'd never used new before, but I'm a stick in the mud about purse sizes. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362325 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 23:29:52 +0000 Thistle 1362325@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Um, never. I have never used a clutch.</p> <p> I have a preschooler, and there is no way a clutch fits my current life. It is not big enough, and I need both hands frequently with a small one. </p> <p>I personally wish fanny packs would come back in style!</p> <p>That said, if you want to try the trend, I would not do so with a $200 bag. I would start with something more budget friendly, and if it worked for me and I still wanted the $200, then I would splurge for it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362322 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 23:27:48 +0000 Cerinda 1362322@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Inspired by Angie and Aida, I&nbsp;carry an oversized clutch most days. &nbsp;I think it looks quite fashion forward and it's a lot better for my back. &nbsp;I took Angie's advice, and tried the trend with a cheapie from the consignment shop. &nbsp;Now that I'm hooked, I have a&nbsp;<i>long</i> clutch wishlist. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362316 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 23:17:40 +0000 rabbit 1362316@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like clutches, and mainly take them out to eat or when running a small errand. &nbsp;I'd look at various price points for a first one, as they are quite simple in construction and it's fairly easy to get a nice looking but&nbsp;less expensive one to test out. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362290 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 22:52:52 +0000 Diana 1362290@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Gaylene, I always yell at my husband when he puts the suitcase on the bed while packing/unpacking! That thing has been rolling around on the floor of the subway, for goodness' sake! I think I've finally managed to break him of the habit. Now if only I could get him to wrap up his shoes instead of packing them right on top of his clean clothes.... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362277 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 22:42:32 +0000 Gaylene 1362277@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mostly an evening, or "dinner at a nice restaurant", look for me because I can place it on my lap under the napkin--which I was taught was the correct place way back in the times when evening bags and gloves were part of formal attire. I almost always toss a small clutch in my travel bag for the theatre or evenings out when I just need my ID, phone, and credit cards. </p> <p>Daytime clutches never appealed to me unless they were small enough to be tossed in a tote or briefcase. I always used a clutch when I taught classes because I couldn't see hauling another bag around in addition to a tote or briefcase. </p> <p>For daily on-the-go, though, I prefer a shoulder or cross-body bag so my hands are free. That's why my clutches are usually from places like Zara. </p> <p>And, for the record, I never place my bag on the floor, or the table (was taught it was bad manners!), or on an unused chair in a restaurant. My bag is always snuggled next to my hip or on my lap. The only bag that I'll set next to my feet is my nylon travel tote or my briefcase. My pet peeve is to see people place suitcases on beds... Bags that are handled by others get set down in some really gross places. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362269 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 22:35:02 +0000 fuzzylogic 1362269@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oooooh, nice clutch, Angie_T! &nbsp;Looks great with chambray! &nbsp;I have been eyeing one similar but feel it looks too severe with my (usually) black ensembles.</p> <p>I think if you love it you will find ways to incorporate it into your daily life. &nbsp;And if you only bring it out for special occasions that's perfectly okay too! &nbsp;</p> <p>Leopard print is classic and makes a perennial appearance. It never seems to go out of style.</p> <p>Definitely check out less expensive items that give you the same look- but the hardware and material&nbsp;won't be as nice.</p> <p>I use a clutch&nbsp;regularly. &nbsp;Most have at least&nbsp;a rudimentary chain so that in restaurants you can still use a handbag hook. &nbsp;Mine generally stays in my lap, though.&nbsp;</p> <p>Let us know what you decide! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362232 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:45:06 +0000 Niki Lea 1362232@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lisa, I didn't know they were called French wallets. That's so interesting! </p> <p>This is the one I'm using full time right now - it looks better in person and not quite so bulky:<br /><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/handbags/madison-bel-air-credit-card-organizer-0063-js8658--24">http://www.thebay.com/webapp/w.....card-organ</a></p> <p>Great question about clutches in a restaurant.&nbsp;</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362230 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:41:51 +0000 Aida 1362230@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lisa, I usually set my clutch in the small of the chair behind me, propped up vertically so that it doesn't take much seat room. Or if we're at a table with extra seats, it goes on one of those. Where there's not enough room OR the seat back is open then it stays on my lap underneath my napkin, although I have set it on the floor on rare occasions (in those cases, leaning up against my seat's leg so that there's minimal surface touching the floor). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362226 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:41:07 +0000 Diana 1362226@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I carry mine mostly only when I go out to fancy events.&nbsp; On a day-to-day basis, I carry too much stuff.&nbsp; (I actually have a tiny wallet but my sunglasses are enormous!)&nbsp; Also, I need my everyday bags to be hands free.&nbsp; My clutches actually all have clip-on shoulder straps, and one has a wristband as well, so they do work for hands-free.&nbsp; I have on occasion used my largest clutch (the unstructured gold one) as a day bag and it worked out well, but in that case I use it as a shoulder bag and not as a clutch.&nbsp; I haven't used it a ton simply because the gold finish on the leather is not too durable and I don't want to ruin it.&nbsp; </p> <p>So I guess I'm suggesting you look for one with a detachable strap or wristlet.&nbsp; I find that to be a lot more versatile.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362223 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:38:03 +0000 Anonymous 1362223@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love that clutch you've posted , Angie! I have a couple of them, and try to use them when I think of it. &nbsp;My only criteria is that my wallet fits inside and still leaves room for my phone , lipstick, glasses etc. &nbsp;Actually, I've also done what Niki Lea has mentioned - I use a larger zip-around wallet in the summer especially , that has enough room to stick my phone ,and a&nbsp;&nbsp;lipgloss &nbsp;in it. &nbsp;Way classier than dragging around a massive purse. &nbsp;I'm actually looking for a smaller wallet for winter (apparently they are called French wallets - said the Gucci saleswoman at Holts's - lol&nbsp;) that can fit in a clutch. &nbsp;I am so over the whole big purse look and would rather toss a clutch or wallet in a tote for day. </p> <p>&nbsp;Now, let me ask you - how do you deal with clutches at a restaurant? &nbsp;I am not sitting it on the floor, and often there isn't room on the table. Then what? &nbsp;I end up awkwardly sitting on it half the time. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362222 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:38:01 +0000 Susie 1362222@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have a number of clutches- including a leopard that looks very similar to that one- and I use them frequently (work, casual, going out). I downsized my wallet and make up bag so that I could use a clutch on a regular basis. </p> <p>If you really love it, then I say buy it. Or, do as Aida suggested, and try a less expensive option. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362215 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:32:03 +0000 Gigi 1362215@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am not a clutch person because I have to carry quite a few things with me for health reasons (annoying but necessary), and there's just not room in one. But I have toyed with the idea of buying a clutch AND a nice tote bag and then doing what Linda does: throw the bare-bones clutch in the tote bag and then just grab the clutch out of the bag&nbsp;when I'm on a quick errand, leaving the tote in the car. But money is tight, so I haven't gotten around to trying this yet.</p> <p>I like Aida's idea of trying a more inexpensive clutch first to see how it goes. Sometimes it can be really hard distinguishing whether something is a fantasy or just different from your usual life. The only problem I can think of with buying a cheaper clutch, though, is that if the clutch you keep seeing popping up is the one that really makes your heart sing, that might be the one you need to buy to make yourself happy and inspire you to make it work.</p> <p>I am no help at all. :)</p> <p>What I would say to do is order the clutch and get it in your hot little hands. See what you can fit in it; see how it feels. That will give you more information, and you can return it if it doesn't pass muster. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362210 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:26:59 +0000 Niki Lea 1362210@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've switched to a small-ish clutch-wallet-hybrid that zips up and loops around my wrist on a strap. It holds all of my cards, change, phone, etc. Then I can toss it into a larger bag if necessary.&nbsp;</p> <p>One benefit is that they don't put any stress on your neck/back like larger purses do that hang on your shoulders.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362206 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:21:00 +0000 Aida 1362206@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I use clutches almost daily, they are by far my most preferred type of handbag. If this idea is something new to you, perhaps it'd be best to get one that's more inexpensive to see how you like it? We all have our own purse preferences and sometimes even if we <i>want</i> to change and wear a different style they never quite feel right (I'm looking at you, cross body bags!). I think you could certainly find a similar clutch to the one in the image at a lower price point.</p> <p>I should add that I lead a very casual life, and essentially work from home. I like clutches for the extra touch of glam they bring my otherwise casual looks. I also don't need, or like, to carry much which makes them very practical <i>for me</i>. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362205 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:19:05 +0000 milehighstyle (Linda) 1362205@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have quite a few clutches, and honestly I haven't been using them lately.&nbsp; I'll sometimes use one if I'm going out to a dressy occasion, but that is rare in my life.&nbsp; Last winter I was using them for work quite a bit, just tossing it in my tote bag along with my lunch, books,&nbsp;and office shoes for the commute.&nbsp; For some reason, I have the idea in my head that I need to pack a bunch of things in my bag and that the clutches aren't big enough.&nbsp; But on a typical workday, I'll use my small wallet, my sunglasses (maybe), and my phone - definitely can&nbsp;fit that in&nbsp;a clutch.&nbsp; I want to get them back into the rotation.&nbsp;&nbsp;If I&nbsp;add up the price of my 5 clutches, they come to more than the one you are eyeing, so I guess my answer is yes I would buy it if I loved it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/when-do-you-carry-a-clutch#post-1362200 Wed, 24 Sep 2014 21:01:47 +0000 Angie_T 1362200@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So this clutch is popping up everywhere I look the last few days.&nbsp; And it seems to make every outfit I see it paired with just a little cooler.&nbsp; Really dresses up jeans a little more.&nbsp; Looks good with dresses. I really am drawn to it. </p> <p>But I have never carried a clutch.&nbsp; And what's more, I have to really make myself not carry the same shoulder bag every day.&nbsp; For most of my life,&nbsp; I would carry the same purse for 6 months (winter bag/summer bag lol).&nbsp; Only since YLF have I really started paying attention to my handbags.</p> <p>So....if you were me.....</p> <p>Would you buy this clutch knowing that you are about to pay $200 for something that you may be only buying for the fantasy you that you imagine yourself to be (someone who is always put together, could look like these bloggers and can just throw a few things in a clutch for a night out to dinner).&nbsp; Do you bank on your own feeling that you have evolved in terms of style and that you will find ways to use this? </p> <p>Or would you use that $200 on something more practical?</p> <p>In what situations do you ladies use a clutch? </p>