Category Archives: Made in USA

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

Fashion in the age of technology

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Met Gala took place in the city last week. The theme for this year’s costume institute exhibition “Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology” focused on the intersection between handmade haute couture and pret-a-porter fashion.

Traditionally the difference between haute couture and machine made centred around hand made and machine made however in recent times that distinction has become blurred as both have embraced the techniques of the other.

 

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The distinction between haute couture and prêt-a-porter has become blurred in recent years.

The exhibition itself showcases more than 100 pieces of fashion, both haute couture and ready-to-wear. Techniques such as lacework, embroidery and pleating are placed along side machine-made designs with laser cutting, thermo shaping, and circular knitting.

Singer Taylor Swift co-chaired this years' event.

Singer Taylor Swift co-chaired this years’ event.

Many of the invited guests to the benefit event dawned the red carpet in ‘futuristic’ interpretations of the theme. Beading, metallic and armour designs played a large role in showcasing what is to come in the fashion industry as technology advances.

The idea of technology and its ever changing influence on the fashion industry is something that has been extremely topical in recent times.

The innovations taking place at the intersection of fashion and technology are extremely transformative. In many respects, the fashion industry today bears little resemblance to that of a decade ago.

This concept of fashion in the age of technology is something we have been incorporating into our daily work practice here at Clutch Made. From the manufacturing of products to the selling of our services the technological advances with in the fashion industry have allowed our company to grow from strength to strength.

It is an exciting time for the industry and we look forward to seeing where technology will bring Clutch Made next.

Black and White Handbags for Spring 2016

Black and White Handbags for Spring 2016

Are you still searching for this spring’s IT bag? Getting ahead of the trends just got easier. Spring 2016 is all about neutral colors!  Can you take a guess as to which two colors are most popular? Here’s a hint: you can see it on a dalmatian and spot it on a tv that has no signal… Yep thats right, the classic colors of black and white are must have for your handbag(s) this spring! 

Now let’s talk about the style of handbags that we recommend you to rock the trend with.

 

Bucket Bag

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The bucket bag has a unique but appealing shape. It has impeccable structure and versatility. A black or white bucket bag adds a flair to its utilitarian style. It is a must have bag that you can take casually to the beach or formally to a dinner party. 

Fringe Crossbody 

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Sometimes, we just want a handbag that is handsfree; there is no stress, just play. Classic white on fringe is major this spring season. Sometimes black on fringe blends in too much and doesn’t capture the beautiful, natural movement of the fabric. White changes the game and creates a clean, modern look that updates last seasons spring bags. 

Black Envelope Clutch

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Do you prefer clutches? The envelope clutch provides functionality with style. It’s structure makes it easy to wear in any setting; from work to happy hour this clutch remains trendy and professional. It is the briefcase of all clutches and it’s a must have for your spring wardrobe. Check out Clutch NY‘s envelope clutch and get a great deal! 

Foldover Clutch

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This fold-over white clutch is Clutch NY’s ultimate favorite. This leather fold-over clutch  gives you enough room for your essentials and does not give up on your style’s aesthetic. It is a classic silhouette that is easy to carry around and easy to style. It is a must have handbag for this spring 2016. 

Classic Backbag

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New Yorkers are always on the go! Its a fact that many can’t deny. Handbags become extremely important when you are constantly on the go. You not only need a bag that is easy to carry but big enough to carry everything you need for the day. The classic back bag is not only for school but it’s for YOU! Black and white color block on a back bag matures your look while still remaining true to the trends. Forget your tote, just grab your back bag and go! 

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!

 

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”

 

 

Handbags You Need for Coachella 2016

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

 

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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! 

The USA Factory You Can Talk To

The USA Factory You Can Talk To

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Say goodbye to “Made in China” because “Made in the USA” is IT. Overseas manufacturing has always created communication problems. American Made products eliminate the inferior quality, high shipping costs, miscommunication and delivery time problems associated with far east production. So, how CAN you start manufacturing in the USA? Move over Captain America, Clutch Made is your new superhero. 

Who? Clutch Made is a modern e-factory that provides design and manufacturing services to small businesses and brands looking to source and produce in the USA. We specialize in sourcing the materials needed for us to manufacture  your handbags and accessories. The Clutch Made team works through every detail of our client’s product from the idea to the actual tangible sample and ensures the best service and highest quality of expertise. We are located in NYC with our factory in the heart of the garment district. We believe that COMMUNICATION is the key ingredient in modern manufacturing today. Clutch Made is the factory that you can easily talk to without hassle or any type of language barrier. 

Clutch Made's Mantra

Clutch Made’s Motto

How? The Clutch Made Team’s mission is to have open communication so we can make your products a reality. 

Here are 5 simple ways to talk to Clutch Made today:

  1. Our Website: On our website, Clutch Made, we offer a contact form that you can submit to us. It is one of the easiest and fastest ways to get in touch with us. When you submit your request, we promise to get back to you as soon as we can. We ensure quick response no longer than 48 hours after your submission. This is the best place to review all the services beyond sample and production at our factory. 
  2. Follow Us on Social Media: What? A factory that uses social media? Yes, Clutch Made stays active and current on all of our social media platforms. Check us out and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest. Message us on any of these platforms and we will be happy to contact you. 
  3. Email Us: Unsure about our services or your ideas? Email us directly at team@clutchmade.com with any questions and concerns that you may have. Our team communicates efficiently in and out of the office to ensure great communication standards. 
  4. Call Us: The easiest way to reach us is by phone. Contact us at 1.800.208.1840 and if we accidentally miss your call, just leave us a voice mail with your name, phone number, and reason for calling. We will call you back in less than 24 hours. 
  5. Find us on Maker’s Row: Maker’s Row is a platform that we use to connect with small businesses and brands interested in our manufacturing services. Make sure to check out our profile and the services that we provide including sourcing and manufacturing in the USA. 

Clutch Made is the USA factory that you can talk to; it’s that simple and it’s that easy. We are making the factory and manufacturing experience extremely accessible for you to do business. We truly believe that communication is the most important aspect of the process and promise to always be available at your convenience. We understand the challenges you face and we’ll work to rescue you from overseas production that delays communication. Contact us today and let us show you how easy it is to talk to a modern factory. 

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 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

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. 

 

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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