Category Archives: clutch bags accessories

Introducing BLK BLU NY

Working with a variety of talented innovators, Clutch Made has recently sat down with some of its collaborators to explore their inspirations and designs. This week we interviewed the creative team behind the leather-based brand, Lisa, Oksana, and Gregory. 18512957_1329286823823684_6566141909020966912_n_900x

Company: BLK BLU NYC Production: Made In NYC

Firstly, we must address your name. How and where did such a catchy innovative name come about?
Walking in New York’s lower east side, we noticed the sun was almost setting and we started talking about how beautiful the black shadows of the buildings were against the deep blue sky. It looked amazing and the name came naturally.

BlkBluNyc Collar and Hair Cuff

Drawing inspiration from the streets of New York, BLK BLU NYC has created designs with the idea of catering for creative individuals looking for luxury accessories with an edge.

Have you always known that accessories would be the main focus?
In a way. We all wanted to launch a fashion brand that could bring something different to the industry, accessories became the ideal category for us to do this.

Where would you like to see BLK BLU over the next couple of years?
Hopefully overseas with the likes of David Beckham to Gwen Stefani, Nicole Richie and Jared Leto wearing our designs.

BlkBluNyc accessories are available to shop today on clutchbags.com

What accessories will you be rocking this summer? From our own collection, Oksana favorite piece’s the hair cuff. The Belt Bag is a staple in Lisa’s wardrobe and Gregory is holding out for the men’s scarf in our upcoming collection. Our go-to accessory would also have to be our nude leather choker, which works like a scarf or a choker.

How is it for the three of you to work together?
So far so good!! We all have different strengths that dictate our roles within the business.

Do you have any advice for future designers out there?
Be fashion inspired, not trend driven.

BLK and BLU NYC accessories are available to shop on our website www.clutchbags.com, now.

Totally crazy for totes

The tote bag has become a staple in the day to day wardrobes of New Yorkers as we try to keep up with the hustle and bustle of the city. From our sneakers to our kitchen sinks and everything in between, our tote bags carry it all, so why shouldn’t we give them the attention they deserve?

It’s time to let go of that go of that canvas sack you’ve had for over five years and inject a bit of fun, quality and style into your tote. We have found some great pieces which are sure to raise your tote game 100%.

Denim Tote

‘Market Bag’ from Clutch Bags NY

Denim is remaining a key trend for summer. This water-resistant denim with leather bottom tote from Clutch Bags NY is the perfect combination of trend and practicality.

www.clutchbags.com/market-bag.html

Statement Tote

‘Sam” bag from SpeakIt.nyc

What better way to stand out on the streets of New York than with a statement tote. We aren’t just talking bold colours and eye catching designs, but something that speaks for you also. Introducing the statement tote ‘Sam’ from SpeakIt.nyc. This tote is 100% cotton so it will with stand even the craziest of weather New York has to offer.

www.speakit.nyc/products/sam

The Reversible Tote

‘The Reversible Tote’ from Aurelia Garza

If you are somebody who likes variety in your day to day wardrobe then you will LOVE this reversible tote from Aureila Garza. It is available in two shades with 10k gold finished hardware and 4 functional Swiss zippers that reverse the interior to the exterior. This particular colour reverses from gold to black and is ideal for taking you from day to night.

www.aureliagarza.com/collections/all/products/the-reversible-tote

The Monochrome Tote

‘The Monochrome Tote’ from Linda Bushe Private Collection

Monochrome has been huge for the past two seasons and we are delighted that it is here to stay this summer. We have found the perfect tote bag to take you through this season in both style and comfort. Better yet, this tote can be transformed into a chic cross body bag, perfect for the New York gal on the go.

www.linda-busch-private-collection.myshopify.com/products/leather-canvas-tote

Tech Accessories that Will Blow Your Mind

Technology and Accessories are two worlds that are colliding and making the world a little more stylish for you. Tech accessories are far beyond boring and are innovating as ever! Imagine this: a cute gold bracelet with diamonds detailing the rim AND it tracks your sleeping patterns and calorie intake. Sweet deal, right? This trend is fascinating and affordable!

Here is the inside scoop of our top 4 tech accessories that will blow your mind:

Tory Burch x Fit Bit

Tory Burch teams up with Fitbit to reinvent a new way to wear a tech accessory without looking like you are. The Fitbit Flex tracks steps, distance and calories burned. Tory Burch for Fitbit Fret creates a double wrap bracelet in 5 neutral colors. It’s an exclusive collection that allows you to wear your fitbit from workout to happy hour. The leather detail is a perfect match for the gold/silver metal detailing.

Rebecca Minkoff x Casemate

Rebecca Minkoff teams up with casemate to make this lighting cable bracelet. Why would you need a lighting cable bracelet? If you are on the go with an iPhone that is always dying because let’s face it…you’re always on it, this bracelet should be on your wrist. It converts into a USB connector to charge and sync your iPhone. You can wear it with your everyday jewelry and take it off as soon as you need to charge your phone. The gold clasp is not only for style but it hides the USB connectors so that no one will be able to see it on the bracelet.

My Mira Fit

Have you always wanted to track your steps or calorie intake in a discreet way? The Mira Fitness bracelet and tracker combines style and privacy. It’s feminine and modern look makes it possible to wear to any setting including cocktail parties or weddings. This sweat resistant bracelet requires you to download their app to make it easier to track your daily activity. It tracks distance, elevation, steps, AND calories. Let Mira be your secret weapon to staying healthy.

Ringly

Okay so a tech ring sounds weird right? Well Ringly, proves us wrong with their “Daybreak” ring. Ringly connects to your phone via Bluetooth and lets you receive customized notifications through vibration! It also has a light on the side of the ring to let you know that your phone is blowing up and you should probably check it, Ms.Popular. The specific ring in the picture above is actually inspired by early mornings when the sun’s rays light up in the sky. How motivating is that? Never miss a beat on your phone, even when you’re in the zone at work.

Inspired by these cool tech accessories? Clutch Made is a manufacturing and sourcing factory that helps designers and brands from all over the world. We challenge you to make a tech accessory that you feel is not out in the market. Take charge and create opportunities for yourself today!

Why NYC is the Best Place for Inspiration

Clutch Bags NY is a collection designed by creative director, Laura Dotolo. Clutch Bags have a classic, utilitarian style that reflect the heart of NYC. New York City is our #1 source for inspiration! It’s the city where EVERYTHING happens and no one ever sleeps. It’s lively vibe captures the essence of our brand and our customers. Inspiration can be found almost anywhere in NYC; from the food to the architecture. Do you have a collection or brand and need a new muse?

Here are our top 6 reasons why NYC is the best place for inspiration:

Street Stylin’

Hello Upper East Siders, Lower West Siders, and Brooklynites! No matter where a fashionista resides, she is on the streets looking fabulous as ever. Street style is fascinating in the city where fashion strives. The fashion capital oozes of innovation, trends, and impeccable taste. The typical on the go fashionista never forgets her heels, shades, or handbag wherever she goes. She is also always ready for the next event and photo op. Street style is NYC’s specialty and every outfit on the scene never disappoints.

Foodies Unite

If the talk is not about fashion in New York, it’s about food. NYC has over a thousand restaurants, cafes, and diners. You can also escape a crowd with street vendor food. The possibilities are endless and the food is spectacular. In NYC, Wednesdays are for Brooklyn’s rainbow bagel, while Sundays are strictly for brunch. You can eat an authentic ramen soup or be more daring and try a ramen burger. The creativity is unimaginable in this city and the passion lies in the pure ingredients used to make a food lovers dreams come true.

Architectural Digest

Architecture surrounds New York City. It’s as innovating as the fashion and the food. The Flat Iron building is known for its unique shape, while apartment buildings are known for their incredible classic stairs. There are also NYC “statement” buildings like the iconic Empire State that stands tall in the day and lights up in the night. Buildings are white, black, gold, and sometimes even made out of glass. NYC’s futuristic appeal makes it hard to not get inspired. It inspires structure and color for any product that you may want to include in your next collection.

Street Art Love

Art in itself is a natural inspiration. Art on the streets creates fascination. Every corner of the city lies a picture that screams a thousand words. Artists rely heavily on the city for inspiration and create beautiful works that can make your jaw drop. There is the love wall full of color and there is a wall of a dancer almost leaping out of the art. The talent is shown to inspire everyday people and motivate creation. Everyone has a gift to create, so take the time to think of how you will achieve that goal. Clutch NY takes prides in handbag craftsmanship and art helps our team constantly innovate our products.

Interior Genius’

Interior design is important for any setting. NYC exceeds all expectations and expands creativity. Interior decor in cafes, restaurants, and markets are executed beautifully. Whether it is lights or cool free standing structures, NYC knows how to brighten up a room. Just like architecture, interior decor can inspire structure and aesthetics. If you want a muse for your visual merchandising, interior decor and design is your answer. Let the decor speak to your brand and capture the voice that you create through your products.

Nature’s Parks

Last but not least, the most powerful influence in NYC and the world is nature herself. New York City has America’s most beautiful parks. Central park is iconic with its beautiful garden and fountain. The High Line park is beautiful and one of the most innovating places to visit. We can’t forget Washington Square Park that welcomes you with arches and a big, open fountain. You can also walk past Bryant Park which has a beautiful view in the city at night and an event space big enough to enjoy a yoga class. Nature will always be inspiring! It’s calm nature let’s us escape from the chaos the city can bring. It is a concert jungle after all.

No matter what product or brand you are, inspiration is needed for motivation. Inspiration in NYC is the source of Clutch NY’s passion as well the women who live there. Never forget who your brand is and who you are making your products for. Now follow Frank Sinatra’s lead and “start spreading the news…I am leaving today. I want to be a part of it. New York, New York”

Handbags You Need for Coachella 2016

The most anticipated music festival, Coachella, is near! You almost have all your outfits planned out, but what’s missing? THE handbag! The handbag you need to not only carry essentials things but show off as a fashion statement. What’s it going to be this year? Get your festival look completed and check out five handbags you need for Coachella 2016.

Coin Bag

For a classic on the go clutch, try the coin bag! Clutch NY‘s coin bag is made out of leather and features a braided detail to perfect your festive look. It is offered in four different colors including white, black, espresso, and silver. The size makes it easy for you to throw in all your ID, lipstick, keys, and cash. You can also match it with classic white sneakers and look coach-hella good.

Belt Bag

What’s handsfree, cute, and convenient? A belt bag! Just strap it around your waist and let the bag do the rest. Clutch NY’s belt bag is perfect for your everyday festival look. It features two zip pockets and is made out of perforated leather. For your convenience, it has a credit card patch pocket and an adjustable belt strap. Rock the belt bag with a matching leather jacket and a choker necklace for a grunge look.

Box Bag

Still not tired of fringe? Fringe is a necessity for your festival look. Instead of the average suede or leather fringe, try beaded tassels. ASOS’ Festival Metal Box Bag With Beaded Tassels can be used as a clutch or over the shoulder. The contrast embellishment on gold makes it easy for this bag to stand out in a mass of original fringed bags. Shop the look and complete it with an off the shoulder dress for a boho vibe.

Cross Body Bag

Cross body bags are life savers; throw it across your shoulders and you are handsfree. If you are more of a keys, cards/cash, and phone kind of gal, Nasty Gal’s Common Ground Crossbody Pouch is for you. It’s small, made out of black vegan leather, and features three card slots. It’s also so easy to style! Wear it with a denim romper and some mules for an effortless look.

Pencil Bag

Do you need a bag with a little extra room for your makeup? Clutch NY’s pencil bag is perfect to throw in your go-to mascara, lipstick, foundation, and any other rescue tools you may need. It has two credit card patch pockets and comes in denim, suede, and silver lambskin. This clutch is great for the night shows you’ll go to! Complete the look with a crop top and high waisted ripped jeans.

Which bag is going to complete your Coachella festival look this year? Keep up with Clutch NY’s weekly blog posts all about the latest trends. And don’t forget, keep it clutch and go!

How to Wear Pantone’s Color of the Year

How to Wear the Pantone’s Color of the Year

Pantone announced that the colors of the year 2016 are Rose Quartz and Serenity. These two pastel colors are playful and very natural, just like cotton candy skies. So, how do you think you can wear it this spring? If you avoid pastel colors on your clothes, try them on your accessories. Both colors are perfect for accessories this spring and will pop among the sea of black. Not only will you appear like a trendsetter but you will stand out!

Here are our top three picks for accessories for spring 2016 that dominate the color of the year:

HANDBAGS ARE A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND

They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but we think that they meant handbags. Purses and clutches are the perfect way to include the color of the year into your wardrobe. If you wear neutrals, your handbag will be your stand out piece. If you are more daring, try a monochromatic look; you can wear an all rose colored outfit and match it with a rose quartz bucket bag. The best part about these colors is that they can come in any style of handbag you prefer; cross body bag, bucket bag, or your basic satchel bag. It fits your personal style and completes your trendy look.

Classic Handbag in Serenity

Edgy Clutch in a Lighter Shade of Serenity

Go-to Bucket Bag in Rose Quartz

Furla’s Classic Handbag in Rose Quartz

STATEMENT JEWELRY

Jewelry is the statement, you are the model. The color of the year in jewlery is perfect for any occasion from breakfast at Tiffany’s to brunch at a bridal shower. Serenity color in a necklace is the perfect accent color with neutral colors such as white, creme, and grey. A rose quartz colored necklace can be worn with matching pastel colors like mint, yellow, and lavender. This pastel color family all looks great worn together. You can also turn up the volume by adding gold to the rose and serenity colors in bracelets. Since both the rose and serenity colors complement each other, do not be afraid to wear them both at the same time. You’ll look as sweet as cotton candy.

Layering Necklace in Rose Quartz

Bright Serenity Colored Necklace with Gold Accent

Rose Quartz and Serenity Bracelets with Gold Accents

Small Serenity and Rose Quartz Details on Gold Bracelets

SUNNY SIDE UP GLASSES

Let’s face it, sometimes when your outfit isn’t captivating, the best way to disguise it is to throw on some shades. Sunglasses are one of the dominating accessories this spring 2016. Time to put the black wayfarers away and replace them with jazzy pink and blue tinted lens. The most trendy sunglasses styles for spring include aviators, cat-eye, square, and round. It is best to see what works with your face shape. Once you find your match, the sun won’t be the only thing that’s hot.

Classic Pink Tinted Aviators

Round Blue Tinted Sunglasses

Rose-tinted Shades in Many Styles

Quay Blue Tinted Cat-eye Sunglasses

Clutch Bags NY is always on the lookout for trends! We are inspired by the New York women who are constantly on the go but forever looking glam doing it. Let the streets guide your fashion taste and make sure to keep up with our blog posts updated WEEKLY!

Until next time,

Clutch NY

How to Make a Handbag in the USA: The Final Step

You have finally reached the final step of making a handbag in the USA. Congrats! Your hard work is just about to pay off. If you have been keeping up with our posts, this week we discuss the last and final step on How to Make a Handbag in the USA. Just to recap, here are the five steps before racing to the finish line:

AND FINALLY!

6. Website and Social Media Set Up (including tips for photography/styling)

Your handbag collection is perfected and ready to be shown through the digital world. The Clutch Made team has extensive experience in the media and styling world. We help you create beautiful product shots and videos for your brand. It is easy, affordable, and all the images you receive will be perfect for all your website and social media platforms.

Your Website: How are you going to get your product on the market place? Have you thought about creating a website? The Clutch Made team will work with you in acquiring a domain and building your own site. Websites are one of the best platforms to use in order to get your product on the market and seen by your biggest fans. We will not only design the website for you, but show you how you can then maintain the site on your own. We also supply all the tools necessary for your website to function. Our team will work with you on your bios, product descriptions, key branding search words and content writing that will get you found on the web. Here is an example of two websites we helped design for our clients, Linda Busch and Blk Blu NYC.

Social Media Set Up: Whats the next step after website set up? Clutch Made can help you create social media platforms that would work well for your brand and products. This includes acquiring all handles for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tumblr, Pinterest and the strategies on how to maintain it consistently. Make sure to follow us on our social media platforms in order to have an idea of the great work we can do for you.

Styling and Photography: This is the fun part for the Clutch Made Team! Our professional NYC photographers are the best in business. Alongside Creative Director Laura Dotolo who has 20 years of styling expertise, the Clutch Made team creates beautiful product shots and video’s for your brand. Our service is affordable with one of the quickest turn- around times in the business. The images you receive will then be perfect for all your website and social media platforms.

Here is an example of a video we made for our client Aurelia Garza:

Working our photography magic!

Behind the scenes look for http://aureliagarza.com

One of the final shots!

How to Make a Handbag in the USA: Step 5

So now that you have a good looking sample with all the bells and whistles that you designed, what’s next? What sets you apart from what’s on the market place right now? How is your customer going to find you? Who is your customer? Who are you? If you are keeping up with our posts, this week we discuss the fifth step on How to Make a Handbag in the USA. This step is all about branding and merchandising. When you reach this step we discuss who you are as a brand and how we can make your products unique enough to stand out.

Branding: The goal of branding is to create products with cohesive aesthetics and a point of view. You have to create a name, symbol, or design that identifies and differentiates your product from others. Branding gives you a competitive advantage and a promise to your customer that your product is better or more unique than your competitors. Your brand is then created from who YOU are and HOW you want people to perceive you. We will work with you to help establish your product and company as a recognizable brand. The Clutch Made team will help establish your product and company as a unique and recognizable brand associated with consistent quality. This involves a focused path to brand identity through consistent products and social media.

Merchandising: Merchandising your brand is part of the Clutch Made agency process. Not only does it involve putting your products on the market but you have to think about what pieces will collaborate best for your collection. What materials do you want to use? It is important to use materials that are hot in the market so that they are on target for buyers. Buyers want to see collections that are cohesive and trendy. What pieces of your collection do you want to show and can they go together? For example, a clutch can go well with a cross body, especially if they are made from the same leather and hardware. From extensive development and editing of your products, the Clutch Made team is alongside you in creating your unique brand.

Tradeshow Representation: Now, is it time for you to get your product out on the market in front of buyers? Are Trade Show costs too high for your budget? Are you unsure of how to start the process? We will work with you to help promote the sale of goods, especially in retail outlets. We invite all of our clients to join us under the Clutch NY umbrella at the trade shows. This is one more way The Clutch Made team helps you to convert your ideas to real sales. Selling your product keeps your business viable and the dream alive.

Tradeshow

Once your brand is established and your merchandise is perfected, your products will flourish in the market! Buyers will love how spot on your handbag collection is with the trends and better yet, how well made they are. Stay with us next post to discover the sixth and FINAL step on How to Make a Handbag in the USA with the Clutch Made team.

What’s In for Spring 2016

What’s in for spring? Minimalism! The minimalistic lifestyle is all about keeping your style clean and simple. If you are not one to wear bold colors in the spring, this trend is for you. Simplicity and accessories are finally colliding this season. The key is color, or the lack of. This spring stick to white. Why white? White does not only signify purity but it captures light, goodness, positivity, and clarity.

Following are the best white accent accessories to add to your wardrobe this spring. Check it out!

The OG’s of White Sneakers:

The white sneaker trend started in the fall and is sticking around to be the ultimate spring/summer 2016 shoe. It’s the perfect shoe for the minimalist! It is so easy to wear because it follows the athleisure trend. No doubt, they are also comfortable and stylish. Even celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Jessica Alba, and Gigi Hadid are rocking the streets with their white kicks. Shop the best sneakers at Vans, Converse, and Adidas.

The OG’s of White Handbags:

The Coinage: The coin bag is an on-the-go clutch bag that easily hangs off your wrist. It is convenient enough to run to the store with, take on the subway, or even take to the bar. It is made out of a classic white leather to last you all season.

2. The Lunch Bag: Now, do not get hungry! The lunch bag is classic fold-over clutch that resembles the classic brown lunch bag. It has easy access and folds nicely to accommodate a range of uses including travel, cosmetics, weddings or evenings out. It is also a must have simple accessory for your wardrobe.

3. Mail Bag: Inspired by our local mailman, the mail bag is the perfect spring accessory. If you are attracted to bigger handbags versus clutches, the mail bag is for you. It is oversized, roomy and, you can wear it over your shoulder or across your chest. Best of all, it is great as a day bag, weekend bag or travel bag. Whatever you are doing, the mail bag is perfect to look fabulous while on the go.

Oh and guess what? These handbags are ALL made in the USA. Check out Clutch Bags NY and shop these bags to add simple, clean accessories to your wardrobe this spring. We have no rules when it comes to white. All that we say is: White it and rock it.

Athleisure Accessory Trends 2016

Working out is not just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. Today, Americans are dominating healthy lifestyle choices in their activities, food, clothes, and best of all, accessories. Athleisure is the casual trend that supports loungewear into everyday clothing. Adding accessories to outfits allows you to go place to place without looking like you just exercised.

Here are the top 5 athleisure accessory trends to try for spring 2016:

Chic Hatter

Don’t feel like doing your hair? The solution: HATS. Hats are quickly becoming more and more popular on the streets and in the gym. For a more athletic appeal, try Nike’s dry fit running hats in vibrant colors such as fuchsia, teal, and white. For a more fashion-forward look, hats made of leather or suede can disguise the gym look and create a chic street appeal. You can find trendy leather and suede hats at retailers like ASOS and Nordstrom.

Golden Beats

Not all earphones are made equally. These gold earphones are the hottest accessories this spring. Stay golden while working out and jamming to your favorite song. Beats Solo2 Wireless Headphones are a great investment if you prefer wireless headphones. All you have to do is connect your phone via Bluetooth and your music will stream handsfree. If you are on a budget, you can find other gold headphones at Urban Outfitters and Nasty Gal.

Hands-Free

You’re running on a treadmill and your arms keep pulling down the wire that won’t stop swinging in front of you. Suddenly it unplugs and you’re left with no music! I don’t know about you but pausing to plug my earbuds back in is definitely a pet peeve. Don’t let a wire stop you from working out! Maybe that new trendy headphone you’ve been eyeing doesn’t come with a Bluetooth option. Check out these reviews to discover a highly rated Bluetooth headset that suits you best!

Not Your Average Gym Bags

We all know that gym bags can be plain and boring. Why not spice up the aesthetic this spring? Designers like Rebecca Minkoff are creating the most stylish gym bags convenient for your lifestyle. For New Yorkers and athletes, the subway bag is not only versatile and cute but it’s the most perfect size for your on-the-go style. You can go from work to tennis practice without the struggle of muddling through packed subway trains during rush hour.

Fanny Pack Love

Fanny packs are not going away anytime soon! This accessory is one of the best on the go handbags. Not only is it hands-free but it is perfect for those who like to carry light. You can grab your phone, chapstick, earphones, and cash and throw it into the bag. Also, do not forget that fanny packs can be fashionable in perforated leather and studs. Shop today at Clutch NY for the hip look.

Fit Bit and Rock It

Accessories can be made for running. The notorious Fit Bit Alta tracks the wearer’s activity including exercise AND sleep. The Fitbit will also have interchangeable bands that you can personalize and customize. You can wear it to work, to the gym, and even to a wedding. The possibilities are up to you!

Keep up with Clutch NY blog posts where more trend posts like this one will be released WEEKLY! This spring, you will capture the trends and easily become a fashionista.