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Clutch Purses

"The Best Tips on Finding Chic Clutch Handbags You'll Love"

Caramel Zip Clutch Handbag by Marc by Marc Jacobs
Zip Clutch by Marc by Marc Jacobs/Zappos


Clutch purses are just so darned cute! If you're a purse freak you might agree with me on how gorgeous these are.

Shopping bag pink To go shopping see recommendations section at the bottom of this page:

Evening

Everyday/Casual

Read along and discover the best tips on finding the right clutch purse for your body shape and needs. You'll also find lots of recommended purse designs that I fell inlove with while browsing the net!

You can find clutch handbags in all kinds of designs that appeals to any woman's personal taste and style. Examples are the classy and low-key leather snap tote clutch (my fave), sexy croc patent textured clutch, elegant satin purse with rhinestones, sleek clutch wallets, fancy sequin and beaded clutch evening purses, and many, many more!

Clutch purses come in various styles than the classic rectangular shape. You'll discover clutch in hard boxy styles and softer, rounded shapes as well. Although they are smaller than an average purse, they vary in size. Your height and body shape will help determine what kind of clutch handbag style to choose.

Tips on Buying a Clutch Handbag

    Mini notebook icon Picking clutch purses to complement your body shape and height. Here are a couple of guidelines on how to choose the right bags according to your body proportions:
    • Petites should opt for a smaller clutch
    • Tall girls should opt for a longer or larger clutch
    • Plus size girls should look for structured or boxy clutches
    • If you're thin you should look for softer, rounded clutches
    • If you're a petite plus size, then go for small but structured clutches.

    A general thumb of rule is to avoid repeating the same shape of your body: If you have soft body features (a little bit fleshy arms, stomach, legs, etc) go for something that will sharpen the edges, however if you have stronger and thinner features (defined collarbone, shoulders, skinny legs, etc.) opt for something that will soften them. Also, avoid carrying bags that are way too big or small for your proportions as it can make your size more obvious in comparison.

    Mini notebook icon Consider buying several clutch purses for different occasions.

    Itsy-bitsy purses are perfect for formal events, however the bigger envelope and "oversized" types are best suited for everyday use.

    Mini notebook icon Secure the versatile styles first.

    Secure at least one or two clutch purses that go with everything and which you can use for many years to come, like for example neutral and solid colors like black and brown. Also look for something with minimal and timeless details (envelope or snap tote purse in leather or satin. No complicated prints)

    Mini notebook icon Also consider buying a clutch with strap inside that you can pull out of the purse whenever you feel like it.

    Yup, clutch purses are fashionable but they are easier to get snatched it can jeopardize your safety. Also, straps are often practical if you're not the type who likes to hold on to a thing all the time. If you don't want to wear straps then make sure you hold it close to your body.

    Mini notebook icon Make sure you carefully plan what you want to carry in your purse.

    An overstuffed and bulky bag can distract people's eye from a fabulous-looking outfit. If you're planning on stuffing your whole life in it (not literally) then you're better off with a handbag or the biggest clutch bag you can find



How to Wear a Clutch

If you want it to stand out in your outfit then place it with a contrasting and solid colored garment. On the other hand if you want to carry just for practicality instead of a fashion statement, then choose a color that match the color of your outfit.

Here are more ideas on how to wear a clutch handbags:

Minikiss icon Let it match with your shoes, jewelry and other accessories. Like for example a blue envelope clutch with a beautiful blue beaded necklace.

Minikiss icon If you're wearing a multi-colored dress or top then pick one of the colors from the blend and wear it as a bag

Minikiss icon Get to know the color wheel and find other complementary colors to your outfit.

Here are my favorites from around the web, for both evening and everyday wear:

Clutch Purse Shopping

Mini globe Shopping tip for international readers: Expensive worldwide shipping? US store doesn't ship to your country? Then save money and gain access to all the goodies with a mail forwarding service!

Clutch Evening Purses

Pick among beautiful fabrics and embellishments like satin, lace, rhinestones, beads, gold and silver frames.



For Parties and Everyday Wear

These are used rigidly (as in stuffing in your things at least 5 times a week, going out, etc.) so you need a clutch purse that is sturdy and durable. Leather is in my opinion the best material for everyday use.


Remember what I said about clutch purses being so darned cute? Well, I'm sure you've noticed that I may have stuffed too many options right in your face (imagine having to comb through 5000 clutch styles)! It was hard to cherry-pick only a handful of purses because they are all a knock-out! :-)



Related Content:


Go Back to Guide to Womens Handbags
Leave Shop Stylish Clutch Purses and Return to Homepage




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