Banana Republic Metallic Clutch

Written by H on 18 January 2008.

BR Metallic Clutch

Talk about flash! The Kensington lady bag by Banana Republic offers some serious silver splash for spring — or any other time of year — that is absolutely attention-grabbing.

The bag is also available in black patent and red patent, but I love the look of shiny silver. And forget PVC or any other plastic packaging; this clutch is made of genuine leather.

Besides the colour, the over-sized turnlock closure is probably the most interesting feature of this bag. Both the closure and the optional chain are polished nickel, so the hardware won’t discolour or fade over time. The chain handle tucks away inside the clutch, which is lined with the classic Banana Republic monogrammed material.

Interior storage space measures larger than usual: 10 1/2″ L x 4 1/4″ H x 2″ D. Also hidden inside is an interior zip pocket for any unmentionables.

Banana Republic Kensington lady bag, $98, BananaRepublic.com

Marc Jacobs Mink and Python Clutch

Written by H on 07 January 2008.

Marc Jacobs mink clutch

Picture this: Links of cognac-coloured mink and python, stripped together almost seamlessly to form a classic clutch.

The Marc Jacobs ‘Monica’ clutch is constructed to have a vintage effect. Like most of his handbags, MJ’s clutch is timeless (look at the detailed dual leather buckles and the flap turn-lock closure). I love how Marc Jacobs takes such simple ideas and molds them into something beautiful; talented doesn’t even begin to describe his design genius.

The ‘Monica’ doesn’t just look pretty, either: This clutch is fully lined in leather and features an interior zip pocket. And at 13″ wide and 8.5″ high, it is more than fair in size.

Marc Jacobs Monica mink and python clutch, $2950 $1238.94, Saks.com

Abas Crocodile Clutch

Written by H on 06 December 2007.

Abas clutch

Most clutches are classy; this clutch is classic.

Available at Nordstrom, this handbag is crocodile-embossed patent leather at its best. Square shaped with a sturdy frame, it features a front buckle detail, three interior slip pockets, and — surprisingly — lots of storage space.

My favourite feature? The vintage-inspired levered clasp, which literally holds the whole bag together.

The ‘Hannah’ comes in three timeless shades — black, stone, and red — that you’ll want to carry everywhere.

Abas crocodile clutch, $190, Nordstrom.com

Jimmy Choo Cecile Crystal Clutch

Written by H on 14 November 2007.

Jimmy Choo crystal clutch

It’s easy to over-do an otherwise elegant ensemble with too much flash — think concert-costumed JLo, or everyday Beyonce — so I’d let this Jimmy Choo crystal clutch carry my look.

Black satin ravished with jet crystals, this Jimmy Choo clutch is Bling with a capital B. I love the complete versatility of a removable chain-link handle and hidden inside storage, finished so small I can carry it by hand.

Now the only question is what to wear with it. What do you girls think?

Jimmy Choo Cecile crystal clutch, $2694, Net-A-Porter.com