What is a clutch

The history of fashion development goes back many hundreds of years. With the emergence of exchange, people learned to distinguish things that were good in quality from bad ones, and then choose the best and most beautiful products from the good ones. This is observed in all areas of human life.

Fashion has also affected bags designed for carrying and storing important things that you always need to have on hand. More recently, interesting images of handbags have appeared, which are small rectangular flat products that are easy and very comfortable to carry in your hands. Such handbags began to be called clutches. In our article we will try to fully consider this model and tell interesting facts about it.

What is a clutch

Recently, there is a huge variety of bags on store shelves. Among this assortment you can find a suitable model. Particularly popular are neat flat handbags that combine the functions of a wallet and a business card holder. But even they have a huge range of different options.Sometimes two clutches are so different in design that it is difficult to combine them into one group.

A clutch is a compact rectangular bag with many compartments and pockets; sometimes the design uses a handle or an elastic band sewn to the back wall. Such products are worn in the hands or under the arm, pressed tightly to the body.

Origin of the word

The very meaning and etymology of the word indicate the functional features of this product. Literally translated from English, the word clutch means to grab or grasp. Handbags got their name because of the way they are worn. Initially, they were taken in the palm of the hand, tightly grasped and pressed to oneself. Later, a way to carry bags under the arm appeared, bending the arm at the elbow. Therefore, the sizes of clutches are usually made small so that it is convenient to take them with you and comfortably go for a walk.

IMPORTANT! For men's models, there is an additional handle or elastic at the back wall to thread the brush into it and fix the product more tightly.

Product history

Like any wardrobe item and accessory, clutches have their own creator and an interesting origin story. Its roots go very far. Probably, since the advent of minted coins and the monetary system, special wallets appeared, which became the initial image for creating the design of future handbags.

Such products were made of leather, were small in size and were worn on the belt. Over the years, the appearance has changed, but the main purpose has remained almost unchanged.

Everything new in our lives was discovered a long time ago, but now it has simply become fashionable again, so the clutch is not an innovation. Such handbags were especially popular in the 20-30s of the last century.Nowadays, they have again gained popularity and have become an integral part of the image and style of clothing.

Distinctive features of the clutch

This model has its own characteristics, by which you can definitely say that this is a clutch:

• The shape of the product looks like a thin rectangle up to 3–5 cm thick.
• The dimensions should not be too large; the optimal proportions are 15x20 cm.
• The product does not use straps, handles or other holding elements.
• The outer part is usually made of leather.
• The interior is divided into sections, and the top of the product has a zipper or push-button clip for easy closure.

Recently, many products have deviated far from their original parameters. People call almost any handbag that can be held in the palm of their hand a clutch. But despite this, the convenience and beauty of the style allow them to occupy a leading position in fashion.

What the first clutches looked like

In history, with the advent of commodity relations, the need arose to collect and store money. For convenience, special bags were created and hung from the belt of clothing. They were made roughly, but reliably. Their main task was to preserve coins and prevent their loss. For this, thick leather with dense inserts was used. Then the design was changed a little, the bag turned into an oblong wallet, which had to be carried in the hand or hidden in secret pockets. This is how the very first versions of the clutch appeared.

IMPORTANT! The first wallets and clutches were made of leather, but retained the shape of a simple envelope. The material was also folded several times and sewn on the sides, and the top was sewn with thread or tied with rope.

What modern clutches look like

Modern style and the race for fashion dictate their own rules and set new requirements for clothing and accessories. Nowadays, the clutch has become not only a practical element, but also part of the image:

• The sizes vary greatly: from the smallest to the dimensions of a full-fledged bag.
• Use of various fabrics and leather inserts.
• The use of multi-colored colorful materials.
• Decorative inserts are added to the material: rhinestones, beads, beads.
• Straps and handles are sewn onto the product.

Modern models can be suitable for any purpose. With them you can go out into the world and go for a regular evening walk with friends. With a huge variety to choose from, you're sure to find something that suits you.

Types of clutches

There are several basic models designed for different functions and suitable for any purpose:

• The everyday clutch has a regular design and is suitable for walking.
• The evening option is perfect for a date or a romantic dinner in a restaurant.
• Decorative handbags will highlight the image and add bright colors.
• Business style is suitable for official meetings and negotiations. Suitable for a formal suit.
• Clutches in the form of an envelope look very interesting and unusual in our time, they make you attract attention.

Pros and cons of clutches

Such handbags have certain positive aspects that make the model popular:

• Combination with any clothes.
• Bright and expressive design.
• The compact size allows you to conveniently place things and carry them with you all the time.
• They complement the look and look elegant in accordance with fashion trends.

Despite the huge number of advantages, clutches have their minor disadvantages. Due to their miniature size, you cannot afford to take a lot of things.They only hold the most basic things, which is why modern versions are made in larger sizes. When heavily loaded, they become heavy and uncomfortable to carry in your hand.

What outfit would this handbag be suitable for?

Thanks to the huge selection, they can be combined with absolutely any outfit, choose the product you like and add it to your wardrobe. This accessory is perfect for any style of dress: casual, formal, romantic evening. For a business style, hard clutches or in the form of envelopes are suitable. For outerwear, it is best to choose a light-colored coat. If you wish, you can find a model that will meet all the requirements and add additional grace to the image.