Category Archives: Inspiration

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. 

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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. 

 

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Tradeshow

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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

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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!

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The OG’s of White Sneakers: 

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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: 

  1. 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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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Athleisure Accessory Trends 2016

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 

saz3-1024x6837_leather-love1Don’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 

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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.

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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 

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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 

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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 

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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.

 

The Best Spring Statement Handbags

The Best Spring Statement Handbags 

Clothes can speak for your personality but handbags speak louder. Spring 2016 is all about having a bag with a voice. New Yorkers have, once again, been hiding in their black wardrobes this winter.  It is time to step out of your comfort zone and stand out among the rest. Check out these three statement handbags that you will be itching to wear to work, the grocery store, or even your 6pm pilates class. 

1. Symbolism isn’t Just in Books

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We all know the green light in The Great Gatsby didn’t mean “go”. Symbolism on your handbag is a great way to send a message. Instead of just believing in good energy, show it with the ying yang symbol. The ying yang is known to represent both masculine and feminine energy. It represents opposite energies that cannot exist without each other. The black curve, with its white dot, stands for femininity along with night, matter, and softness. The white curve represents the opposite: masculinity with day, spirit, and hardness. Black and white in general is dominating the trends this spring. It’s neutrality is great for your bag to stand out. 

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Canvas totes are one of the best “go-to” bags. While most can be plain and boring, there are so many fun totes that you can wear to really give your look a statement, literally! This Spring try buying a canvas bag that states your mantra or beliefs.

If you are a shopaholic (its okay to admit it sometimes), then maybe a tote that states “Shopping is cheaper than therapy”, is the tote for you. If you are a fashionista, one of the most humorous statements for your bag might be “I’m still saving up for my Birkin”“. Finally, you can try a tote that supports your lifestyle like,  “I make Champagne Disappear. Whats your superpower?”

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In the mode to get bold and state something political or take a stance? Our inspiration this spring is Speak It Tees and Totes who says: “Have you ever felt the need of saying something but didn’t know how to do it? We founded this company for that very reason. We felt that people needed a platform where they could find cool items to express themselves… SPEAK IT! Our accessories are made for the people by the people.” Check them out and make sure to speak it this spring with your sassy or symbolic handbag.

3. “OMG! Look at Her Bag!” 

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If you’re not a fan of tote bags, try looking for clutches like this one. Bags with expressions and fun shapes are one of the trendiest accessories for this spring. Just like the symbolism bags, there are other fun objects and food inspired items that can make for a great statement bag.

How about some popcorn with that?

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Pop into the spring fever and get out of your comfort zone. Go from OMG to POW and support your favorite comic!

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Make sure to keep up with our blog and stay on trend this spring!

-Clutch Bags NY

 

 

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. 

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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.

 

 

 

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.

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Why is NEW YORK the best city to work in!

We as a manufacturing business were born and bred in the heart of the concrete jungle, NYC. Working here for almost a gazillion years, you don’t realize the importance of the city until you sit down to have dinner with a bunch of your friends who work all around the world.  These international friends still seem to envy your lifestyle  in this amazing metropolis.  After many brief discussions with these friends,  I decided to come up with a short list  of things that happen only in New York City and which no other city has to offer. Check out my list here:

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.

Diversity – New York is a melting pot of all kinds of cultures, races and people. Take a stroll around Central Park; it’s like a fun presentation of all the amazingly diverse ethnicities that reside in New York. Every part of the city has something different to offer, from the amazing Indian/Pakistani food markets in Queens, to the Greek Restaurants in Astoria, this city is a home to all.

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.

Lifestyle – New York presents lifestyle opportunities to you that no other city can offer. From going to laundromats, to running for your busy morning subways, this city  makes you TOUGH, INDEPENDENT AND STREET SMART. Once you learn to live in this amazingly fast paced lifestyle, you can easily fit and adjust to any other regime that the world has to offer.

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.

24*7 –The city has a lot to offer in the day but it also has  the same amount of activities to offer in the night.  Such is this wonderful city of New York! ‘The city that never sleeps’ functions 24*7 with full capacity. From the public transport to a chain of local restaurants, this city truly never lets you fall asleep.

Clutch Made We Are Hiring

Now that we have convinced you how amazing it is to live in New York, come work with us at Clutch Made and make this beautifully versatile city your home. We are looking for young and talented individuals in the field of Product Development and Marketing with the following requirements:
Good verbal and written communication skills, excellent organizational skills, knowledge of studio software (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Excel, Word & Social Media), ability to meet deadlines in a high-energy environment. Creative yet meticulous attention to detail. Problem-solving skills.

If you think you are a perfect fit to the above mentioned skills, send us your cvs at keziah@clutchmade.com and let your deam come true!