đź‘ś What is a clutch?
A clutch is a small, handy bag without a handle or shoulder strap, designed to be carried in the hand—hence the name "clutch," which means "to grasp" in English. This type of bag is often associated with fancy occasions such as galas, weddings, and evening parties, but nowadays you also see more casual versions.
đź“ś History
The clutch’s origins date back to the 19th century , when small women’s handbags—also called “reticules”—were popular. They were often dainty and meant to carry just a few essentials.
The clutch as we know it today really took shape in the 1920s and 1930s , during the rise of Art Deco. Designers such as Coco Chanel and later Judith Leiber helped popularize the clutch as a luxurious evening accessory. By the 1950s and 1960s, the clutch was a staple of elegant women's outfits, often paired with gloves and strings of pearls.
🧵 Design features
-
Size : Small and compact, designed to carry only the bare essentials.
-
Shape : Rectangular is the most classic, but oval, envelope-shaped, box-shaped or even fantasy shapes also exist.
-
Closure : Often with a click closure, magnetic closure or zipper.
-
Materials : Satin, leather, metallic fabrics, beads, sequins, or decorated with crystals or embroidery.
-
Extras : Some clutches have a detachable wrist strap or chain, so you can also wear them as a shoulder bag.
🎯 Usage & Style
-
Evening accessory : Ideal for chic events such as cocktail parties, weddings, galas or theatre performances.
-
Minimalism : The clutch forces you to minimize—only your essentials fit in it (phone, lipstick, cards, keys).
-
Statement piece : Due to its small size and often distinctive design, the clutch is an eye-catcher in your outfit.
-
Mix & Match : A sparkly clutch with a simple dress, or a neutral leather clutch with a colorful outfit—anything goes.
đź’« Contemporary popularity
Although the clutch is best known as a formal bag, you can also see casual versions these days — such as oversized clutches made of soft leather (think the famous "Pouch" from Bottega Veneta ). These are meant for daytime use and often have a relaxed look.
There are also many developments in the field of sustainability: vintage clutches are popular, and more and more brands are using recycled or vegan materials.
🌟 Tip
Want to buy a clutch that you can wear often? Then choose our Becker's Amsterdam™ Plum Purple Clutch Bag that goes with almost every outfit.