What makes a great gold clutch?

As we bid the summer season adieu and we approach the last quarter of 2021, it’s easy to wonder how quickly the year has passed thus far. But what I’d rather do, especially after the year and a half we’ve had, is celebrate what’s ahead: the holidays. Even if the fêtes must remain small amid a persisting virus, getting dressed is half the fun. And if you feel the same, then I’m sure you’ve already started searching for the perfect ensembles, to be finished off with stellar accessories. If you’re looking for a purse that makes a statement without being bulky or dysfunctional, then you’re essentially looking for a great gold clutch.

Warm and metallic, this petite handbag will add a festive touch to any look and be worn with day-to-night, semi-formal and evening looks throughout the whole year.

For more on what makes a great gold clutch, read on.

Fashion

Besides a good pair of shoes and carefully curated jewelry, there’s really nothing like a stylish designer handbag to complete a look. And while there have been fewer opportunities to dress up with trendy accessories, it’d be a crime to neglect these items much longer.

Gold hardware, handbag chains and supple metallic leathers have progressively been making more frequent appearances at fashion week since fall 2019. You can find a slew of styles that feel more or less feminine and polished, from Bottega Veneta, Fendi and the like.

I like to think that the best gold clutch bag is the most versatile, but this is subjective. If you love following trends or have a penchant for metallic hues, then perhaps the best one for you is the one that suits each need separately, e.g., daytime, semi-formal and evening.

If this is the case, I’d advise opting for supple leather and clean lines for daytime and semi-formal attire, like Stella McCartney’s Mini Fabella, and gold beaded clutches or more structured mini bags with interesting detail, such as Judith Leiber’s Slide-Lock Box and Oscar de la Renta’s Mini Tro respectively.

Function

Designing with intention is so important—that’s what it means to shop for fashion items that prioritize functionality. To check this box, look for bags that are roomy enough to hold your phone, keys and wallet, and perhaps even lipstick or chapstick.

Loewe’s slouchy Flamenco clutch is a cult favorite this season. The designer doesn’t offer a classic gold version, but the style in yellow is just as functional and versatile. Crafted in Spain from supple mustard leather and lined in suede, the mini version offers just enough room for necessities like your phone and card case or small wallet. It also has an optional strap to convert it to a crossbody.

Another great option is Bottega Veneta’s Mini Pouch, which offers a single compartment with a magnetic closure to keep your belongings (phone, keys and cardholder) sealed away.

Versatility

As I touched on earlier, to me, what makes any great handbag is its versatility. A great gold clutch bag is the thing that sets, or perfects, your look—it’s hard not to love something that pulls your look together again and again, don’t you agree?

If a supple gold leather isn’t your style, consider other neutral tones with gold accents. I love Bottega Veneta’s Chain Pouch in beige because it artfully combines premium leather and glossy gold hardware; it’s an unexpected approach to neutral accessorizing. The same goes for Khaite’s Aimee clutch in tan and Miu Miu’s Belle Nappa Mini-Bag in cameo beige.

The takeaway

Each brand and design has a unique appeal and value. Something I say pridefully is that the brands and items noted above are very well-made, as they use techniques cultivated over many years with the best materials—from beads to metals to leathers—sourced from all over the world. From an aesthetic perspective, each has its own that’s rooted in innovation. Again, like most accessories, a great gold clutch is subjective, defined by your needs, personal taste and ideal price point. In looking to purchase a gold clutch, think about the shapes that appeal to you most, the outfits you’d like to finish off and the size to best accommodate you.

Ready to purchase your new favorite accessory?

As always, these are just guidelines for purchasing luxury accessories. With over 20 years in the fashion industry, Esquivel takes pride in being a valuable resource for shoppers. To learn more about our own accessory collection or any other products we offer, send us a message through this link. We’re here to give you peace of mind and help you find the best fashion items for you.