A Complete Guide: How To Style Clutches for Any Occasion
From its origins in medieval Europe to its status as a staple bag today, the clutch has come a long way. Favoured for their chic and compact construction, clutches are elegant and feminine carriers that are well-suited for a range of settings. In this guide, we will cover the various ways to hold a clutch and the different types of clutches, as well as how to style them for different occasions.
What Are Clutches?
Clutches are small, flat bags designed to be held in hand or tucked under the arm. They typically do not have straps or handles, though some styles include removable ones for added versatility. With their compact silhouette, clutches are ideal for carrying just the essentials, which makes them the perfect choice for special or formal occasions.
While clutches can be considered purses, not all purses are clutches. A purse is a broader term referring to larger bags with straps or handles, suitable for everyday use. Clutches are also sometimes mistaken for wristlets. However, clutches do not always come with a short strap that loops around the wrist, which is a defining feature of wristlets.
History & Evolution Of Clutches
With the material shortages of World War II, the clutch once again became a popular, everyday style. As it continued to gain popularity through the decades, more versions were produced with experimental shapes, colours and designs. It even became the go-to bag for Princess Diana in the nineties, and has since continued to be a mainstay in contemporary culture.
How to Hold a Clutch Bag
From The Top
Exude both elegance and confidence when you hold your clutch from the top. This may not be the most secure way to hold a clutch, but you can keep a firm grip on it by extending your index finger along the top, before placing your thumb at the back and curling the remaining fingers over the front. This is a relaxed yet stylish way of holding a clutch that will make an impression as you mingle at a cocktail party or intimate soirée.
From The Bottom
The most common and comfortable way to hold a clutch is from the bottom, as you would hold a newspaper or document folder. To get a secure grip, place your thumb over the front of the clutch and wrap the other fingers under it. In this way, the clutch would sit firmly in your palm, with little chance of falling. You can choose to bend your arm and hold the clutch at your waist for a poised demeanour, or take a carefree stance and let your arm hang down your side.
From The Side
A rather unconventional way of holding a clutch is from the side. To do this, place your thumb at the back of the clutch and rest the other fingers on the front. This method is a refreshing alternative to its more typical counterparts, as it changes the way in which the clutch is perceived. When positioned vertically, the clutch can also have a flattering streamlining effect on the person carrying it. Small clutches are particularly suitable for holding from the side.
Hands-free
While a clutch is traditionally held in hand, some contemporary iterations of this classic bag style come with detachable handles or straps that allow you to transform them into crossbody bags, shoulder bags or wristlets. These features will come in handy when you grow tired of holding your clutch, or need to use both hands at once, such as in the restroom. Straps and handles will also extend the mileage of your clutches, as it allows for more creative and versatile styling.
With Two Hands
When you want to look classy and demure, holding your clutch with two hands is the way to go. To do so, place both hands in front of the clutch and curl the other fingers underneath. Often associated with the prim and polished postures of female royals, this is a surefire way to look feminine and put together. This method will also come in handy when your hands are free and you are not sure what to do with them.
Types of Women’s Clutches
Envelope Clutch
As the name suggests, envelope clutches resemble a traditional envelope that features a fold-over front flap closure. Typically sleek and structured in design, envelope clutches come in a variety of materials, including but not limited to faux leather, silk and calfskin. Some have embroidered or beaded finishes that are suitable for both daytime and evening events.
Pros: Its sleek and minimalist silhouette makes it a versatile piece that can be worn for a variety of occasions.
Cons: Due to its slim and compact design, it can just about fit the essentials, and not bulkier items.
Minaudière
Minaudières are small, ornate clutches that are considered collector’s items. They are decorative pieces that are made to be displayed, and can hold only small items (or, in some cases, nothing at all). They are typically made with precious metals, and embellished with jewels or crystals. Like wearable works of art, they come in exquisite shapes and designs, ranging from seashells and birdcages to more novel designs like popcorn and perfume bottles. Seen as the ultimate evening bag, they are often reserved for the most formal affairs like gala dinners and black-tie events.
Pros: Minaudières are exquisite statement pieces that will elevate any look to new sartorial heights. They often come with a chain strap, which allow for more styling versatility.
Cons: Due to their ornate and decorative nature, minaudières are not designed to hold much.
Pouch Clutch
Pouch clutches, commonly known as pouches, are soft, unstructured bags that usually come with a top-zip closure. They are often seen as a more casual alternative to classic clutches. Typically made from nylon and canvas, they come in a variety of fun colours and prints that make them particularly suited for everyday use and travel. Pouch clutches also come in more traditional materials, such as genuine leather, to suit semi-formal occasions. Depending on the size of the pouch, it can be tossed into a larger bag when not in use.
Pros: Pouch clutches are generally more lightweight with enough space to hold the essentials without the bulk.
Cons: Not the most versatile option, as pouch clutches are generally used for casual occasions and are not typically the go-to choice for formal events. Slim and compact, they also do not fit as much as a regular-sized bag.
Wrislet Clutch
Wristlet clutches or wristlets, as the name suggests, are designed to be worn on the wrist and typically come with a top-zip closure. Blending the style and silhouette of a clutch with the added feature of a small strap, wristlets offer a bit more security than a traditional clutch and leave your hands free when needed.
Pros: Easy grab-and-go piece that’s perfect for running errands. If it’s compact enough, it can fit into larger bags, offering additional storage space and bag organisation.
Cons: Most wristlets need to be carried on one hand or held under the arm, so if you require hands-free movement and convenience, they may not be the best option.
Chain Clutch
Also known as clutches with chains, they can be carried as either a clutch or a chain bag. Chain clutches typically exude a dressier aesthetic that makes them an ideal choice for evening and formal events, and commonly feature quilted textures and leather finishes. Depending on the design, they can be easily dressed down to complement a casual look.
Pros: Super versatile pieces that can be easily dressed up or down to match a variety of looks and occasions.
Cons: Most chain clutches are typically smaller and more structured in design. Hence, they may not be able to hold everything you need.
Crossbody Clutch
Similar to a chain clutch, this style typically comes with a detachable shoulder strap that allows you to carry it as both a crossbody bag and as a clutch, depending on the outfit and occasion.
Pros: Offers hands-free convenience when needed, and it can be easily dressed up or down for both casual and formal events. Particularly ideal for travel.
Cons: Most crossbody clutches are typically smaller in size and have limited capacity. Their crossbody design can also potentially strain your shoulder with prolonged usage.
Styling Clutches For Different Occasions
Everyday Casual
Once reserved for evening wear, clutches have now become a chic complement to casual, everyday outfits. For a versatile, pared-back aesthetic, reach for daytime-appropriate styles in neutral tones. Clutches with detachable straps are always a smart choice, offering the option of hands-free convenience. Worn crossbody, a clutch also adds an air of chic restraint.
To balance the clutch’s traditionally formal feel, pair it with relaxed silhouettes like baggy jeans or a flowy sundress to achieve a laid-back, street-style look.
Work Functions & Events
Clutches can be excellent companions for formal work functions and events too. Sticking to structured silhouettes and neutral tones is a foolproof way to maintain a polished, professional look. It is also important to consider the size of your clutch, which should be large enough to hold all your essentials, but not so big that it becomes cumbersome.
Wedding & Special Occasions
When choosing the right clutch, consider the occasion, dress code (if any) and venue. For example, a ballroom wedding calls for a glamorous, embellished piece, while a boho-inspired woven clutch is better suited for a beach ceremony. As mentioned above, clutches with detachable straps are always a practical choice, offering the option of hands-free convenience. Opting for classic, structured silhouettes also ensures timeless elegance and effortless styling versatility.
Holiday Party Clutches
The holiday and festive season is the perfect time to go all out with accessories, so don’t be afraid to choose clutches with bold designs, glamorous details and striking finishes. Metallic pieces, with their unmistakable shine, signal a party-ready attitude. Styles that may feel too novel or daring for a casual day out or formal event also fit right in with the celebrations.
Whether heart-shaped, pyramid-inspired or styled in another unconventional geometric silhouette, these statement clutches will add a playful flair to any party ensemble.
Clutch bags are stylish and elegant carriers that are designed to make an impression — they are also versatile enough to suit a range of occasions, from the casual to the formal. From the sleek envelope clutch to the luxurious minaudières, there is a perfect clutch for every need, preference and setting.
We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of the different types of clutches and how to style them. Ready to add a new clutch to your collection? Explore our collection now.