Clutch up: The hottest trends and tips

Fashion designer Sara Baloch discusses the hottest trends in clutches.

Gone are the days when eyes were the windows to a woman’s soul — these days, women are defined by the accessories they don and flaunt. Our ‘Indispensible to Survival’ list may not have bags at Number One, but they are there, right under oxygen. The size, colours and trends in bags may change with the weather, but a woman’s eternal love for arm candies is as constant as the North Star.

One style that has survived from the time of Hepburn to Beckham is the clutch. Whether you’re primped up for a formal wedding or planning to ace a girl’s night out, you can choose from a variety of forms and styles available in clutches. From the sleek envelope style, to the oversized day clutch to the vintage cigar case clutches — there is one for every girl out there.

But carrying a clutch with poise can pose something of a challenge to those more used to shoulder bags and handbags. Up and coming bag designer Sara Baloch  — who celebrates the glamour of clutches in her collection The Royal Pearl  — gives tips on how to carry clutches.

1. Strap it on.

Many clutch purses come with detachable straps in leather or chain. If you don’t want to be too hands on with your clutch, simply sling it on your shoulder. If it’s a wristlet (with a bangle or a small detachable loop attached), wear it around your wrist.

2. Get a grip.

Oversized clutches can be tucked under your arm if you want to shift the focus on your lower body or can be held in hand to keep the focus on the upper half of your body.

3. Don’t play match-up.

Avoid overmatching your clutch with your outfit. If you’re wearing a pair of shoes or dress that has a bold pattern or intricate design, choose a clutch that’s sleek and simple. Many fashion enthusiasts prefer neutrals because they go well with all the colours on the colour wheel but that shouldn’t stop you from experimenting with bold colours and interesting prints. In fact python print clutches are very much en vogue.

However, there are a few things that should be kept in mind while choosing a clutch:

•  A working woman who is expected to keep it altogether at all time may want to opt for a bigger clutch.

•  Fashion doyennes choose to hold these arm candies in their left hand. It makes it easier to shake hands with anyone important or good-looking out there!

•  If you want to use your left hand, always hold the clutch bag under your arm.

•  While sitting, keep the clutch bag on your lap. You have got to dazzle the world with your high on vogue baby.

Sara Baloch clutch bags are now available from retail shops as well as online stores.

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Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, December 16^th, 2012.

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