Category Archives: Collection

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

                          CompanyBLK 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

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.

blk_blu_nyc_men_s_black_pocket_square_1296x
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 clutch bags.com

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.

blk_blu_nyc_black_leather_headband_1296xHow 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

‘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

‘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

‘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

‘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

Why NYC is the Best Place for Inspiration

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’

ALL STYLE

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

Screen Shot 2016-04-14 at 12.45.50 PM

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

Screen Shot 2016-04-14 at 12.44.41 PM

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

Screen Shot 2016-04-14 at 12.44.51 PM

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’

Screen Shot 2016-04-14 at 12.45.30 PM

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

Screen Shot 2016-04-14 at 12.46.03 PM

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”

 

 

5 Handbags Every Woman Should Own

At Clutch NY we are inspired by everyday trends and timeless classics. Handbags are one of the most important accessories women wear. Her handbag represents her identity and symbolizes her taste and lifestyle. As her taste or mood changes, so does the handbags she chooses. One day she carries a tote bag to the grocery store and the next she carries a clutch for a girl’s night out. Every day is an opportunity to show off a different handbag in your wardrobe. 

Here are 5 essential handbags every woman should own: 

Clutch

CLutches

Clutches are the perfect bag for the on-the go woman. It’s a must-have if you avoid straps and want a smaller-sized purse. Clutches come in many styles including oversized, fold-over, and as a basic pouch. Clutches are the best to bring to weddings or nights out. No matter what style you prefer, Clutch NY suggests to clutch it and go. 

Classic Large Bag

Classic Bag

Every woman must own a bag with a classic handle and fun silhouette. You can throw all necessities into the typically large handbag and still have room for some flats you might want to wear later in the day. We are inspired by classic handbags from Celine to Bottega Veneta; we call it bagspiration. It’s the girl boss of all bags and an essential for your wardrobe year-round.  

Travel Bag

Travel Bag

Summer is coming up and that means: vacation getaways. The travel bag is second best to a suitcase. If you are going away for just a weekend, a travel bag can carry all your necessities including clothes and hair products. They also come in many prints and colors but if you are into a classic, year round style the best travel bags are made out of leather. Whatever your style may be, your travel bag can reflect it. The travel bag makes packing for vacation a whole lot easier for you. 

Tote Bag

TOTES

Whether it is made of canvas, nylon, or leather, the tote bag is your go-to grab bag. You can put anything you want in a tote bag including your lunch, cosmetics, or simply the shoes you are going to wear as soon as you get to work. You can also use a tote bag for sustainable reasons. Bring it to the grocery store to reduce the use of plastic bags. Some retailers like Target, will help you save 5 cents towards your purchase for every tote bag that you use. 

Backpack 

BACK

Why would a woman need a backpack if she is not in school? Backpacks are beyond educational purposes. They can be convenient for your commute on the bus or subway. They can also save more room for bags. If you are the type of person to carry 3 different styles of bags, the backpack makes it easy for you to do that. Carry a backpack, a tote bag, and a travel bag like a pro juggler. 

 

These 5 bags are the ideal for the modern woman! Wear a different style everyday or wear multiple all at once. Your handbag should be perfect for your lifestyle and still reflect your stylish taste. For more clean, classic and utilitarian style handbags, visit CLUTCH NY today!


Jewelry Trends of Spring 2016

Jewelry Trends of Spring 2016 

It is officially time for BATTLE OF THE ACCESSORIES 2016! Spring is finally here which means that the trends will start to magically appear. Dazzling jewelry trends were spotted down runways and now it is time they are spotted on the streets. Now what accessories should you wear? Here are the battle of the top two accessories for spring 2016: Statement earrings VS Off the body chains.

Screen Shot 2016-03-24 at 12.43.45 PM

Statement Earrings

Sometimes the only dramatic thing you need in your life is your earrings. Big round and disco-like earrings strutted down runway shows from Dior to Gucci. Other statement earrings resembled the tassel on a handbag trend, a large hula hoop, and funky reindeer antlers. This spring, earrings can stray away from being boring and classic. Have some fun and try the various shapes and sizes earrings come in this season. Will you be bold enough to try?

092515-statement-earring-2 092515-statement-earring-3 092515-statement-earring-4

Off the Body Chains 

Show off some skin this spring and let your jewelry talk for you. Calvin Klein and Alexander McQueen showed classic ways to wear this trend to a cocktail party or a glamorous event. How about off the runway and on the streets? Body chains are perfect for those nights you want to stand out in a mass of people at a club or even on the streets. As the weather gets warmer, you can also wear your body chain on the beach; just throw on a cover up and take a long walk along the shore. It is simple and versatile for any occasion. Are you ready to try it?

image

33-spring-2016-bags-accessory-jewelry-trends-body-chain-cushnie-et-ochs-h724tumblr_na41c0JbAQ1rx4f45o10_500

Now, both accessories are bold and glam, but only one can win in the battle of accessories. Which is it going to be? The winner is all about popular demand. So you decide! Will you wear statement earrings or body chains this spring? Let us know and stick around for more fun posts all about the latest and hottest trends! 

 

CLUTCH NY

How to Make a Handbag in the USA: Step 5

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. 

Blog

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. 

 

IMG_20150920_171325

Tradeshow

Tradeshow

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. 

 

How to Make a Handbag in the USA: Step 2

How to Make a Handbag in the USA: Step 2

Here comes the fun part of making a handbag. If you are keeping up with our posts, this week we discuss the second step on How to Make a Handbag in the USA. This step is all about conceptualization and design. When you reach this step we discuss your vision, who you are and what you are looking to design.

Your Vision: A vision is necessary for designers. Your vision could be what inspires you. What do you visualize when you think about your dream handbag? A great way to help you identify those key points is to create a vision board. A vision board helps you organize and conceptualize your wants and goals. 

glamourai_CoachBoard1_opt

Your identity: After identifying your vision and what you would like to achieve, it is time to identify who you are as a brand or designer. Why is this important for design? We want to help you design for a tailored audience. Who are you making a handbag for? What sort of of image are you trying to perceive? A great example would be Clutch Bags NY. Clutch NY is a collection of handbags designed by creative director, Laura Dotolo. Clutch NY handbags have a classic, utilitarian style that reflect the heart of NYC. It is important to note that the main focus of a brand other than its product is its audience.  

Your design: We want to make your vision come to life! The design process is the first step that will lead you to the sample of your handbag. Now would be the time to email or call us at 800.208.1840 and set up a design appointment so we can work with you to design that handbag. Maybe you need ideas for your handbag and are not sure what size, color or zipper it should have. Don’t worry! We are here to work with you during the entire design process. We will help you to formulate all your dimensions, details, hardware choices, functionality and materials for your product. 

sketch2

Stay tuned next week to learn how we help you with the next step of the process: Sourcing..or as we like to say,  “the secrets of our sourcing powers.”

The First Step on How to Make a Handbag in the USA

The First Step on How to Make a Handbag in the USA

If you are following along with our posts on How to Make a Handbag in the USA, this week we discuss the first step on how to make your dream handbag, here in NYC. Are you ready to make your first handbag? Follow these easy directions on how to submit a free consult sign up. Making a handbag in NYC is fast, easy, and exciting with the help of the Clutch Made team.

The first step would begin by visiting our website, Clutch Made. This is where you will find the consultation form to fill out.

furst

Next, click on the Services Tab.

1

From there, you will click on the very first service listed, Free Consult Set Up.

2

Next, fill out the form and tell us the direction of what exactly you are looking for. Do you already have a business? Do you have a bag design in mind? Clearly state your ideas and a Clutch Made team member will get back to you within 24-48 hours via email.

4

After you have received an email that confirms that we have received your form, we will want to schedule a phone call with you in order to further discuss your ideas. Make sure to be prepared for some of the questions a team member may ask you. Questions might and could include: Do you know the style of the handbag you want to design? Have you thought about the materials or colors you would want to use for the handbag? Or do you know the size and measurements you want to include? We want you to really think about the product that you will be developing.

At Clutch Made, we promise to help you with every detail of your handbag. If you are unsure about some of the questions mentioned above, don’t let that stop you!   We are here to help and guide you. Our expertise will ensure that we make the handbag of your dreams.

To start thinking about these questions, we always encourage designers and businesses to make an inspiration board on Pinterest. Need some ideas? Follow us and get inspired by our posts.

5

Stay tuned next week to learn how we help you with the next step of the process: Conceptualization and Design.

 

Handbag Trends for Spring 2016

Handbag Trends for Spring 2016

The two hottest handbag trends for Spring 2016 are (*drum roll* please): The Bucket Bag and The Half-Moon Bag. Which one catches your eye more? Let’s discuss the beautiful features of both handbags and predict which one will be this spring’s “IT” handbag trend. 

Bucket vs Half Moon

Picture source: Tumblr

The Half Moon Bag VS The Bucket Bag

The Half Moon Bag: Victoria Beckham flashed this trend in her runway show and amazed every trendsetter watching. It’s shape mimics the crescent moon and represents the fashion movement as a mystical force in nature. This handbag shape, whether large or small,  is the easiest silhouette  to carry around. This handbag can be seen in many different fabrics including suede and leather. In keeping up with the Spring 2016 trends, buying this handbag in Pantone’s color of the year, Rose Quartz, will assure you an up to the fashion minute trendy accessory. To keep it simple and classic, buy the half moon bag in black or white. 

tumblr_o2axhtueMC1uter8ro1_1280

The Bucket Bag: Louis Vuitton has been trying to make this  handbag a classic for years. For now, this bag is a trend on the streets. The bucket shape creates a unique structure for those who stray away from the norm. Just like the half moon handbag, you can see the bucket handbag in suede and leather, but also in a shiny patent leather. Mansur Gabriel has dominated this trend in colors from black to tangerine. But if you do not have $400 to invest in one of their handbags, there are so many other brands that sell the bucket bag for as low as $40.

tumblr_o0sp6tPS0w1s4bvbso1_540

So which one will dominate the streets and become the handbag trend for  Spring’s 2016 “IT” bag? Due to it’s relevance on the streets and buzz in the fashion world, our prediction is that the bucket bag will be the handbag trend for Spring 2016’s IT bag. Sorry half moon bag, maybe you can shine at night in the fall instead. Regardless, both handbags are innovative and we are so excited to see any other creative structures that will hit the runway this NYFW!

Remember, if you are feeling inspired to make a handbag, Clutch Made can help you make that into a reality. NYFW is an inspiration and we are your platform.

 

 

 

How to Make a Handbag in the USA

New York Street Style

HOW TO MAKE A HANDBAG IN THE U.S.A

Making a handbag in the USA is possible. Are you a handbag designer who is feeling inspired? Do you have all the expertise and time to design, source, AND manufacture your product? Clutch Made is here to help, in the city of dreams, NYC. Our team provides design and manufacturing services to individuals and brands looking to source and produce in the USA.

I am going to exclusively share with you the trade secrets to make a handbag in the USA. Make sure to keep up with these steps over the next 6 weeks to unlock the process and become a handbag designer.

  1. Free Consult Sign Up: This is the first step and it is completely free. Clutch Made is here for you, it is that simple. All you have to do in the sign up form is ask us any questions you have about product development, sample making, sourcing or manufacturing. Anything is welcomed and once you submit the form, we will give you a response within 48 hours. Just like that!
  2. Conceptualization and Design:  Next, get excited because we discuss your vision! Tell us who you are, what you are looking to design, when will you need your design, and how you are going to take your concepts to market. We want to make your vision come to life! How big do you want your bag? Do you want to add zippers? The design process is the first step that will lead you to the sample of your handbag.
  3. Sourcing: Now here comes the fun for us at Clutch Made! We are experts in sourcing and finding anything you need. We will hunt for the type of leather you want and all the hardware you’re going to need. We are going to make your design a reality. We are sourcers who make bags come true.
  4. Manufacturing (including sample/pattern making): The fourth step gets into the details and creation of your bag. We can manage all your production needs with our network of suppliers and our own factory here. What’s after that? We encourage you to use our tech pack service as a tool in developing your bag. Our team of artisans are expert sample makers. Whether from a sketch or from a tech pack, we will translate your ideas into a pattern and can create the sample you have been dying to see.
  5. Branding and Merchandising: (especially in a trade show representation): So now that you have fallen in love with your sample, we will work with you to help establish your product and company as a unique and recognizable brand. From there on, the process of merchandising your brand starts! From extensive development and editing of products and images, we help you create your unique brand. We also invite all of our clients to join us under the Clutch NY umbrella at the trade shows to help you to convert your ideas to real sales.
  6. Website and Social Media Set Up (including tips for photography/styling):  Finally, what is a bag if you cannot proudly display it? The Clutch Made team has extensive experience in the media and styling world. Our professional NYC photographers are the best in business! Alongside Creative Director, Laura Dotolo, who has 20 years of styling expertise,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.

Still want to design that handbag? Keep up with us every week for a step by step guide on how to make a handbag in the USA. Next post we will dive into the first step of our process: the free consult sign up.

Visit www.clutchmade.com to start the steps of making your dreams come true.

Unknown-7