Category Archives: Clutch Women

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

Clutch Made: The New E-Factory

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Clutch Made: The New E-Factory

Who we are: Based in NYC, Clutch Made is a manufacturing and designer service platform for individuals and brands looking to source and produce in USA. We specialize in manufacturing and sourcing handbags and accessories. 

Why we do it: Laura Dotolo, principal and creator of Clutch Made, has been dedicated to her business for years. She says, “My experience styling for clients like Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, In Style and a bevy of similar fashion magazines has taught me that sometimes the trends being depicted are not what consumers really want over time.  By being able to shape the fashion trend of the moment in my styling career, I have learned how to help our clients tailor and develop products that have tremendous appeal in the marketplace. As a manufacturer myself of my own line of handbags, Clutch Bags I have learned the trade secrets in sourcing materials, designing products, and creating good profit margins. This has helped our clients return to us again and again with their manufacturing, design and product development needs. Made in USA pays!” 

Made in the USA really does pay off. We find that manufacturing in the garment district, here in New York City, is much easier than overseas production. Not only does it eliminate high shipping costs, but it eliminates communication and delivery problems as well. At Clutch Made, we take care of our clients manufacturing, production, and even inventory. We are dedicated to help clients sell their products in the marketplace. It’s a modern concept that this country is falling behind on. Manufacturing in the USA is back and Clutch Made has made it revolutionary. 

How we do it: Clutch Made is the modern e-factory. This new way of business and manufacturing is vital in todays digital world. No longer will it take you months and months to make one product. You won’t even have major communication problems. Clutch Made is available in various platforms in order to talk to you at any time. You can follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter. You can also like our Facebook page and keep up with our daily posts. We are the factory that you can talk to without any hassles. You can reach us by email and telephone. It’s just that easy! Being able to contact our potential clients any time they need us is a very important factor in our business today. 

Clutch Made is changing the face of manufacturing! We are always looking for trends in the market and new clients to work with. Resurfacing Made in the USA is just as important as our new way of manufacturing. Seems to good to be true? Contact us today and reveal the truth of e-manufacturing. 

 

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

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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

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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

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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’

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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

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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!


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

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: 

  1. Free Consult Sign Up 
  2. Conceptualization and Design
  3. Sourcing
  4. Manufacturing (including sample/pattern making)
  5. Branding and Merchandising: (especially in a trade show representation)

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:

 

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Working our photography magic!

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

One of the final shots!

One of the final shots!

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. 

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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. 

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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.”

How to Style a Handbag

How to Style A Handbag 

A handbag is more than just an accessory, it’s a statement. It doesn’t always have to hide on your shoulders. Let it add to your outfit instead! Stand out by styling your look to go with your bag whether its for work or for play.

Here are 3 fun ways on how to style a handbag this Spring:

1. Pop It                                                                                                               

tumblr_nomdsmZjbU1tguoxuo1_500tumblr_nctwg5Bf691r0ldx9o1_500Stand out among a sea of black. Try to never be afraid of color. This mustard yellow color is still as bright and fun as the color of the sun. The best way to style the color of a handbag is to have it be the stand out color of your outfit. Neutrals also look great with this color. Change the rules and rock this look whether casual or professional.

2.   Texture meets Style                                                                                      

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Not all bags are made of leather! Suede, the napped fabric, is a great alternative so don’t shy away from a suede handbag. You can match the handbag with denim fabric or funk it up with fringe detail. If you want to go a step further, match your fabrics to your handbag! Who says that monochromatic can’t be used for texture? Whether it’s suede on suede or transitional fur on fur, the mix is perfect for this spring. Suede is also one of the trendiest fabrics of this season, so keep this in mind when styling your handbag. 

3. Fringe it Up                                                                                         

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Fringe returned 2 years ago as a trend and guess what? It looks like it’s still out to play. When wearing this trend pair it with a simplistic outfit. The best quality about fringe includes its fascinating movement. You want the fringe to be the essence of your look. For those that are still hesitant to try the trend, you can buy fringe as a tassel to clip on to your handbag as well. Give fringe a shot and let it dance while you strut the streets.

Remember, a handbag can be more than just an accessory. It is all about how you style a handbag. Try new trends and see what works for you and what does not. This is why Clutch Bags NY exists! We love handbags and the women who wear them. The streets are inspiring and the trends keep us excited and on our toes. Make sure to keep up with our Instagram for our newest spring collection! 

Inspired by the lifestyle of New York, our latest campaign for Clutch Bags.

Inspired by the lifestyle of New York, our latest campaign for Clutch Bags.

 

 

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.

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Next, click on the Services Tab.

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

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

 

 

 

Clutch Made Client Aurelia Garza talks about Manufacturing in America!

Linking her namesake and heritage with a passion

for travel and art, 

Aurelia Garza breathes a balance of feminine strength

and architectural grace into her handbag designs.

Aurelia Garza for Clutch Made

Having been inspired by her travels in Europe, Aurelia moved to New York City to focus her interests on interior design.  Aurelia’s experience in interior design lends itself as the perfect foundation for her to meld modern chic style with classic sensible taste.

Participating in a trunk show this weekend in Texas, Aurelia Garza opens up to Clutch Made about her journey so far as a hand bag designer.

Aurelia Garza for Clutch Made

Clutch Made: A balance of feminine strength and architectural grace, tell us a little more about Aurelia Garza?
Aurelia Garza: The brand mission is to design bags women will love and wear day and night over and over again. To design bags that will become women’s  go-to bag for them to take anywhere they go, whether they are shopping, working, running errands or having fun.   Aurelia Garza bags are designed and styled to always help women look presentable and polished.

Aurelia Garza for Clutch Made

Clutch Made: How does Aurelia Garza as a brand stand out from  other American based brands?
Aurelia Garza: The spirit of the brand is to offer an accessory that adapts to all life style situations, to be prepared  for any event while looking your best.  I haven’t seen that kind of spirit in any American brand thus far.
Aurelia Garza

Clutch Made: How are you trying to incorporate the European aesthetics in a locally made in NYC brand?
Aurelia Garza: Europe is timeless, it never goes out of style and we want the same in our bags, to be timeless, elegant and classical but with the  unstoppable energy of New York.  New York women are always on the go, they never seem to stop. They go from work, to running errands and then to dinner with friends.  We want to create bags fit for the lifestyle of those women.  The women that never stop,  just like New York City!


Clutch Made: How has the experience using the services of styling, photographing and manufacturing with Clutch Made been?
Aurelia Garza: I am a new designer and Clutch Made has made the process of bringing my designs into a reality quite easy. They have been very helpful and working with them has been a real learning experience.

Clutch Made branding and Styling for Aurelia Garza

Clutch Made: What is the strong belief behind the ideology of manufacturing in USA?
Aurelia Garza: The idea behind manufacturing in the U.S. is to support local economy and create more jobs. Also when you live close to where the manufacturing of your product is happening, there is more quality control and easier communication between the designer and the manufacturer. If anything goes wrong it can be fixed faster and the lead time becomes shorter. Plus we are proud to say our product is made here in the states and nowhere else!
Aurelia Garza for Clutch Made

Clutch Made: Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?
Aurelia Garza: In 5 years I see the Aurelia Garza brand in department stores across the U.S.