Category Archives: Uncategorized

Stars, Handbags & Your Zodiac

New Yorkers are no strangers to the plethora of handbags that grace the streets. But how does one know which bag to invest in that’s going to be the best one for them and their personal style? It’s time to find the one. The team at #clutchbagsdotcom has curated a selection of the perfect handbags for your star sign that will fit seamlessly into your wardrobe.

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If you’re feeling overwhelmed by this accessory season’s multitude of bag-offerings, or you can’t decide what style bag you’re after, look through our guide to find your perfect match.

Whilst zodiac signs may seem to be a fad it turns out that it has a lot to do with personality, style and self-expression.

Don’t believe us? Want to learn more about your astrology? These are our favorites sites for keeping up to date with our stars: Costar, Girlboss.

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 Take for example the perfect bag for an Aries woman. The independent, creative, fiery and organised Aries loves style and function equally. This Shana Luther backpack is the ultimate combination of both. Sleek and practicel, the backpack is the go-to for any aries personality types.

Now that you’re convinced, pull out that credit card and finally find the perfect bag for you and your unique style. Shop our curated collection on #clutchbagsdotcom or head to our #instagram for a guide on the latest in #Americanfashionandstyle for every sign!

We swear it’ll lead you to the perfect handbag you’ll fall in love with. It’s in the stars.

The Sun Comes Up for Local Movement that is Making an Impact

Over the years we have seen issues regarding the wellbeing of our planet come to the headlines of newspapers, and the forefront of media. But how does one follow a movement and see it through when our daily lives are so saturated by so much media and so many causes?

Sunrise is a movement to stop climate change and create millions of good jobs in the process. Sunrise calls themselves an ‘army of young people’ who tackle the issues of climate change across #America and try to stop corruption whilst supporting new leaders who stand for #sustainability #health and #wellbeing. This local movement is not only #USA based and grown, but it also includes ordinary people who care about what the current wellbeing of our planet looks like in the future.

Without looking to either political side their motto is to simply look forward, to change the country and the world. For years communities across America are already feeling the impacts of climate change, especially for working-class individuals and minorities.

This local movement have looked to solutions that will make an impact if they are to be enforced. Solutions like wind and solar energy are cheaper than Oil and Gas, reducing billions in taxpayers money and create millions of jobs by upgrading America’s outdated infrastructure. But even though viable solutions exist, large corporations and people in positions of power pit us against each other. Whether its by political party, skin color, socio-economic background, they tell us that some communities have to suffer for others to thrive.

Everyone has a role to play. Public opinion and public education matters. In 2019 Sunrise are pushing for climate change to become the priority in presidential primary debates.

So what can you do to support or join this local movement so that it does remain relevant and effective in change? Sunrise is a great place to get involved by signing up to attend to primary debates, donating or petitioning in your community.

At #clutchbagsdotcom we always bringing you the #latestinfashionandstyle. But what is more #fashionable and #stylish than a local #USA movement we can definitely get behind. Our planet is our responsibility and contributing to local economies is something we strongly believe in.

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At #clutchbagsdotcom we work with emerging designers to promote and sell their products. Why? Because #Americanmade products contribute to the US economy, local communities, create jobs, and promote sustainable and ethical making. We are trying to close the loop on mass made products that impact our planet and other communities.

Local movements like #sunrise are so great to get involved in because our planet is our responsibility, and the team at #clutchbagsdotcom loves seeing local initiative to promote doing so.

So how can you get involved and make a positive impact? Head to sunrise today for more info and shop with us at Clutch Bags dot com to support our curated marketplace of #USAmade designers.

Have a great American made product and want to start selling with us today? Head to Clutch Bags dot com to request an application. It’s as easy as that.

3 Essential Tips for Improving Your Web Design

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1. HAVE A PLAN

This may seem obvious but having a plan should be the first step before you even think about which website template you want to use such as Squarespace, Wix, Blogger or even creating your own HTML.

Start by making your website easy to navigate for your users. I might seem cool to add cool effects or make your site look intricate, but all the buyer wants is for it to be user-friendly. Brainstorm the aesthetics of your site, what each page is going to look like and where the tabs link to. Not sure where to begin? Contact Clutch Made and the team will work with you from scratch to make the perfect website for you.

2. INCLUDE SOCIAL SHARES AND FOLLOW BUTTONS

Producing content is great but letting someone share it will only get you further. Add an interesting button or even google share! If this sounds new to you, social sharing buttons are the small buttons that are located around the bottom of blog posts on the top right of an image. They contain icons of different social media website and allow you to share the page directly on the social media channel of your choice.

3. DON”T BE AFRAID OF WHITE SPACE

Whitespace is essential for design. Users don’t want to feel overwhelmed by the content on your page, so give them a break! It makes the design look more readable and allows you to prioritize the information on the page. Imagine opening up a page and an essay pops up. That’s not what we want!

 

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.

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 NYs 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! 

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.”

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

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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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Clutch Made Video Production

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The clutch made team on set.

Clutch Made Video Productions just finished a video and photo shoot for one of our new clients, Auriela Garza,  and the video came out fantastic! I can’t wait to  publish it soon; stay tuned!

I have spent my entire career on set so creating full media production capability for Clutch Made was a snap!  Video production for our clients is a natural extension of my design and styling career on set for some of the biggest brand names in the business. This video was shot in our Manhattan studio.

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Clutch Made and our creative team started with product development for Auriela, went to sampling and then to full production here in Manhattan. We’re very proud of how the finished product turned out; Aurelia is a real talent.  She now has a quality Made in USA product to sell.