Bagaholicboy Muses #231 – Clutch Action (F/W11 Milan)
Having attended my fair share of wedding dinners over the years, I have observed women turning up in their finery sans a proper bag. Most times I’ll spot a Speedy30, or maybe a smallish shoulder bag, but I always wondered why they couldn’t have bothered to bring the right piece. You’re celebrating someone else’s new life, not your own stuffed within the bag on the chair seat.
In other words, get a clutch.
And because F/W11 Milan is turning out to be a veritable feast of clutches, there is no better time to seriously consider getting one for yourself if haven’t already. Or more, since one can never have too many.
From the Fall-Winter 2011 Womens Bottega Veneta collection comes the iconic Knot in weaved fur, trimmed with exotic python, some in lace, along with what looks to be corded satin interpretations. Always lush, always gorgeous and one of those forever classics. One never goes wrong with the Knot. And while you’re drooling, don’t you think those jewellery pieces are simply divine as well?
On to F/W11 Jil Sander and Raf’s boxy minimalist clutches, stunning in bold colours and lush leathers. Of all the colours sent down the runway, my favourites are the ones in bright blue and accented with the most minimal of trims. And while the last piece (bottom right) is technically not really a clutch, it could still be used as one, don’t you think?
Then there’s Prada, which saw Miuccia Prada sending down suede clutches (or are they actually formerly toiletry kits) in suede and exotic python, each festooned with a giant button for extra dramatic effect. Not holding my breath just yet, but then again you’ll never know. They could be huge hits in the months to come.
Also from F/W11 Prada, and my personal favourites of the lot, what I like to call the ‘pillow clutches’ in dyed exotic skins. Large and smooshy, they are the closest thing you’ll get to a live boa constrictor, provided of course you’ve got a death wish.
It’s time for some clutch action!
Images: Style

















I could never agree more. I mean, you dont see anyone on the Oscar’s red carpet carrying a YSL Roady or an LV Speedy right? Same rule applies to weddings and other formals. (FB)
I had never attended any wedding here before, but I think LV speedy for a wedding is just a BIG NO, as in even a Chanel in Medium/Large is not suitable for wedding.
so how about chanel in small size? are they appropiate for dinner?
Anything discreet will work, and in the case of Chanel, perhaps the WOC? CF or 2.55 in the smallest two sizes would be great too!
WOC confirm out because its so casual looking
On the contrary I think that a Chanel M/L would work for a dinner event, depending on the dress code. Perhaps not for black-tie/formal, but more so for the more typical semi-formal dress codes.
I’m not a clutch person or portfolio. But since the beginning of A/W 11 Fashion Week I grew in love with them. I’m really thinking of investing in one. Bagaholicboy you influence me too much. Hehehe…
You are so right! But I have seen worst! At my wedding, I spotted my guests carrying LV delightful and neverful!
Hi BB, I’m looking to buy a clutch lately for wedding and some events. Budget around $500-$1000, do you have any good recommendation? I was thinking of YSL large clutch or LV pochette? But still not very convinced about it. Thanks!
BB, U set high standards (thumbs up)!
Before i got my 2 clutches, i used to just carry a small bag (non clutch) or even my LV Papillion or Chanel Classic Flap A28600. Now i will be more aware of this when i attend weddings and dinner function.
LOL! No no don’t call them that! At the end of the day, it is simply respecting the occasion you’re attending and being appropriate. Always.
I agree. Clutches for formal events.
Minaudieres like the Knot are the most gorgeous thing – but they’re a really tight fit for a Blackberry, a car key, and a powder compact.
honey. i ADORE my knot. love it to bits. but i have to agree with you on the space issue. then again. u’re at a dinner/function. not eloping. heehee!
LOL!
Hahaha agree with your POV but trust me BB, it’s a totally different scenario for a Malay wedding. Everyone is carryin big bags full of god knows what! Worst, all those occupy a seat of their own. Hehehe…
I bring my medium sized Chanel for wedding dinner… with reduced strap length..
Hi Bagaholicboy,
I need some advice on buying a bag. I’m thinking of buying the marc jacobs Stam (large size) bag but am not sure if this bag is going out of style, still the IT bag….or a classic piece that will not go out of style. I’m also thinking of the Miu Miu Matelasse bag. Which one would you think is nicer? Do you have any other suggestions?
I know my comment on this section of your website may not be appropriate but I didn’t know where else to contact you. Thanks a million!
Ditto on buying a clutch. I am a large person and quite frankly feel ridiculous carrying around something so small.