The Season of the Clutch: The only bag you need to buy this AW

By Edaein OConnell
20th Aug 2019

The Season of the Clutch: The only bag you need to buy this AW

It’s time to say goodbye to the crossbody bag and hello to the clutch. The bag of the season is bigger and better than ever – here we show you where to buy five of the best

Back in the day, any outfit could be completed with a good clutch bag. Heading on a night out? A wedding? A christening? A clutch will do the trick.

These clutches were a certain type; glitzier than the Celtic Tiger, they were bedazzled and minuscule. You would not dare wear one with your jeans and t-shirt on a casual Friday. They were kept only for special occasions and stored safely in the wardrobe until further use.

However, there has been a shift in the style and wearability of the trusty clutch. The sparkle has dimmed to make way for more durable fabrics. They are larger than their predecessors and act more like a traditional handbag. Women now wear them to work with a trouser suit and they are no longer put aside for a ‘good’ day.

The Pouch

Clutches are the ‘it’ bag of AW19. Bottega Veneta’s ‘Pouch’ has become a permanent fixture in street style and Instagram outfit of the day portraits. A soft oversized clutch, it has a voluminous and rounded shape and looks achingly cool when worn nonchalantly under one’s arm.

Like all beautiful things, however, there is a price tag. And it is quite a hefty one. If, by chance, you have €1,900 lying around it is an absolute steal, but for those of us without the disposable income, we must look elsewhere.

Thankfully, retailers such as Zara and ASOS have taken note and are creating chic choices at a more affordable price point.

The emerald green roll-top velvet creation by ASOS is a personal favourite and will accessorize a simple ‘jeans and white shirt’ combo beautifully. Meanwhile, the metallic wonder by Zara will become your go-to party bag, allowing you to pack more than the usual night out essentials.