Fashion also affected bags designed to carry and store important things that you always need to have at hand. More recently, interesting images of handbags appeared, which are small rectangular flat products that are easy and very convenient to carry. 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
The clutch is a compact rectangular-shaped bag with many compartments and pockets, sometimes a handle or elastic band sewn to the back wall is used in the design. Such products are carried in the hands or under the arm, pressing them tightly to the body.
Origin of the word
The meaning and etymology of the word indicate the functional features of this product. In the literal translation from English, the word clutch means to grab or to clasp. Handbags got this name because of the way they are worn. Initially, they were taken in the palm of your hand, tightly clasping and clutching to yourself. Later, a way appeared to carry bags under the arm, bending the arm at the elbow. Therefore, the size of clutches is usually made small in order to conveniently take them with you and comfortably go for a walk.
IMPORTANT! In male models, there is an extra handle or elastic at the back wall to thread a brush into it and fix the product more tightly.
Product History
Such leather goods were made, they were small in size and were worn on a belt. After many years, the appearance changed, but the main purpose remained almost unchanged.
Everything new in our life was discovered long ago, and now it has just 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 fame, have become an integral part of the image and style of clothing.
Clutch Features
For this model, there are peculiarities by which you can say for sure that you have a clutch:
The shape of the product looks like a thin rectangle up to 3-5 cm thick. - Dimensions should not be too large, the optimal proportions are 15 × 20 cm.
- The product does not use straps, handles and other retaining elements.
- The outer part is usually made of leather.
- The inner part is divided into sections, and on top of the product has a zipper or button clip for convenient closing.
Recently, a lot of products have moved far from their original parameters. People call a clutch bag almost any handbag that you can take in the palm of your hand. But despite this, the convenience and beauty of the style allow them to occupy a leading position in fashion.
What did the first clutches look like?
IMPORTANT! The first purses and clutches were made of leather, but retained the shape of a simple envelope. The material also folded several times and sewn on the sides, and sewn on top with a thread or tied with a rope.
What modern clutches look like
- Sizes vary greatly: from the smallest to the dimensions of a full-fledged bag.
- The 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 to the product.
Modern models can be suitable for any purpose. With them you can go out and on a regular evening walk with friends. Thanks to the huge variety of choices, you will definitely find the right option.
Types of Clutches
There are several basic models designed for different functions and suitable for any purpose:
- The casual clutch has a regular design and is suitable for walking.
- The evening option is perfect for a date or a romantic dinner in the restaurant.
- Decorative bags emphasize the image and bring in bright colors.
- Business style is suitable for formal meetings and negotiations. Suitable for a formal suit.
- Clutches in the form of an envelope are very interesting and unusual in our time, they make you pay attention to yourself.
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 constantly.
- They complement the look and look elegant in accordance with fashion trends.
Despite the huge number of advantages, clutches have their minor disadvantages. Because of their miniature size, you can not afford to take a lot of things. They fit only the most basic, so modern options are made in large sizes. Under heavy load, they become heavy and uncomfortable to carry in your hand.