If you like to peruse fashion blogs (and by “like to peruse” we mean “are obsessed with”), you might have come across the online debate about bags versus clutches.
The Bag Snob likes, well, bags. And
The Man Repeller prefers clutches. It’s a fascinating debate that seems to have online peeps pretty evenly split. It got us chatting about this choice up on the fourth floor, and we were pretty evenly split as well.
We know that many of you will not be purchasing $2,000 purses, but we couldn’t have a post about bags and clutches without mentioning some heavy-hitters in the accessories world! But, we also mixed in some affordable alternatives. Here are some options to satisfy all of your bag and/or clutch needs, whether high-end or high-value.
Clutches
Serious splurge: Derek Lam Evie Studded Clutch ($589 – sale price at Barney’s! Regularly $990)
Work this lovely little piece of heaven for a look that’s rock-and-roll chic. With a flap front and magnetic closure, this clutch comes with cool metal stud embellishments. Lined in fabric and featuring Lam signature ram hardware, the clutch has also has great woven lace-up trim detail. Perfect for day or night, this Aries-inspired clutch will take you from brunch all the way through to dinner and dancing.
Vegan (and Canadian!) line Matt & Nat has been producing gorgeous bags, clutches and wallets since founder Inder Bedi was challenged to become vegetarian for 30 days. Each piece produced is environmentally friendly, with linings made from recycled plastic bottles. This pretty little clutch doubles as a wallet, and has a similar studded design as the Lam clutch above, but without the hefty price tag. It also comes in a cool peacock blue.
If you aren’t already completely decked in this season’s must-have print, then we have the clutch for you. Hunting Season’s luxe Leopard Envelope Clutch ($1,432) is made of patterned calf hair and trimmed in black snakeskin. With bold prints and a ladylike shape, find this clutch in the pages of Vogue and Elle.
Incorporating leopard into an outfit with an accessory is a subtle way to rock a trend, and won’t set you back a ton. This clutch from Canadian favourite (well, formerly Canadian) Club Monaco is sleek and simple, ensuring that you’ll have it around for a few years.
Bags
Because a girl can never have enough fur in her closet. This quirky Marni leather cross-body bag’s goat hair is shaggy in the front and shaved in the back. With all the “it” factor a Marni girl could want, the bag has an adjustable strap and black leather trim. If you are already on PETA’s wanted list, then this bag is surely for you.
We think this Zara faux fur option is pretty cool, even though not exactly the same as our Marni pick. It will make those who are PETA-friendly feel good about carrying something that resembles fur, and will add some edge to your look. The colour palette will go with almost any outfit, but steer clear of wearing anything else fur related.
Serious splurge: Miu Miu Leather Hobo Bag ($1,186)
Words cannot express our love for fringe, but let us tell you in the words of Rachel Zoe – it’s mah-jor. Carry this statement piece in the season’s neutral colour palette of choice. Embellished with leather fringe trim, this nude-hued bag is timeless, cool and original. Designed with a fold-over flap and clasp closure, the bag comes complete with an adjustable and removable shoulder strap and strategically placed pockets. Bag lovers, make room in your closet for this fringe take on a Miu Miu classic.
Score a save: Danier Leather Fringe Purse (on sale for $69, regularly $139)
Though not as fringe-tastic as the Miu Miu purse, this Danier version is still really pretty and very chic. Made from soft lamb leather, the purse is a cute size, with just a bit of fringe detailing, meaning you won’t get sick of it in just one season. The braided handle adds a fun bit of subtle boho. It’s also available in black and grape. And the sale price is impossible to beat.
After weighing all of our great bag and clutch options, our verdict in the great debate? Go for both! You can never have too many choices.
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