5 Types of Clutches Every Woman Should Own in Her Wardrobe

While clutches may be used simply to store necessities, some clutches can do much more than that.
They can balance an ensemble, add individuality to an outfit, add a layer of texture or serve as a striking feature that will catch everyone's attention.
However, one clutch can do so much only to a certain extent because a clutch which looks perfect with a formal saree won't be the right choice for a colourful Mehendi ensemble.
A clutch which is decorated with a lot of embroidery may be too ornate for a festive dinner while a more subtle structured clutch won't suit a lehenga which is rich in embellishments.
And that is why a small clutch wardrobe can prove to be very helpful and convenient.
There is no need to buy all new styles which you see, but rather take into account the kinds of occasions you will be dressing for and the silhouettes which will suit your wardrobe perfectly.
Here are the five types of clutches worth investing in.

1. Structured Clutch

Sometimes there appear accessories that become wardrobe staples for everyone just because they suit any ensemble.
A structured clutch is one of them.
Being known as a design that features a neat silhouette, strong build and neat shape, this kind of a clutch is excellent for creating a chic and refined look.
It is perfect for formal events, receptions and celebrations when you want your accessory to be elegant but not to dominate the outfit.
You can consider it as a perfect clutch equivalent to a classic handbag.

When should you choose a structured clutch?

Structured clutch looks particularly nice when combined with:

• sarees
• anarkalis
• shararas
• formal suits
• contemporary ethnicwear
• evening dresses
• festive outfits

When your ensemble has interesting embroidery, prints or draping, the structured clutch can be the element that will balance it and not add an extra decoration.

If you are a woman who loves timelessly elegant accessories, then it is worth taking a closer look at the collection of structured clutches called Classic Rectangles by Ashriyaa.

How to style it?

Don't think that your clutch has to be a copy of your dress or an exact match of its colour.
It may be champagne or metallic, but also a black, ivory or a jewel-toned one.
What you need is not an exact matching, but harmony.

2. Embroidered Clutch

Do you need some accessories which will add some personality to your outfit?
Then try the embroidered clutches.
Combining details such as zari, beads, sequins, pearls, cutdana and threadwork, these clutches will definitely be the decorations which will make your occasion look special.
And what is the main thing to remember about styling the clutches?
Your clutch doesn't have to replicate all the details which you have in your outfit.
Even the opposite will be more interesting.

When should you pick an embroidered clutch?

The embroidered clutches look particularly nice in:

• weddings
• sangeet nights
• Mehendi celebrations
• festive dinners
• Diwali parties
• family celebrations
• traditional ceremonies

If you wear a simple saree or a lehenga which consists of a single colour, the embroidered clutch will add some details to the outfit.
If the dress you wear is already rich in embroidery, it is better to choose a clutch which has controlled detailing.

How to style an embroidered clutch?

Think in terms of contrast and balance.
Pastel outfit can be combined with a pearl or silver decorated clutch, a jewel-toned outfit can be contrasted with a clutch with metallic or embroidered detailing, and a monochrome outfit can be complemented with a colourful clutch.
It is not necessary for the clutch to match the outfit.
The most important thing is that it should be an additional element of the look.
The collection of Ashriyaa offers a wide selection of embroidered and embellished clutches which are suitable for festive occasions, Indian traditional outfits and weddings.

3. Pearl or Brass Clutch

Some clutches are just accessories.
Others become the focal point of the whole look.
Pearl and brass clutches belong to the second category.
Having combined the softness and luminous texture of pearls with the strong and sculptural shape of brass, these clutches become the perfect accessories which can make an impression without using too many colours.

When should you wear a pearl or brass clutch?

This kind of clutch is perfect for:

• wedding receptions
• cocktail parties
• engagement celebrations
• luxury festive occasions
• evening parties
• formal dinners

Pearl or brass clutch will look particularly good with a saree, a sleek lehenga or even an evening dress.

Why does this type of clutch look so good?

The main thing which makes it so special is the contrast.
Pearls give it the softness and delicacy while brass adds the shape.
And their combination creates the perfect accessory which is able to make an impression.

Ashriyaa has a collection which is dedicated to this kind of clutches.
The collection Pearl Brass Series offers you pearl-embellished brass clutches and statement bags which are designed to suit the occasion.
Since these accessories already look quite impressive, it means that the rest of the accessories doesn't have to be too bright.

4. Floral or Artistic Clutch

Not all women want the clutches which are quite conventional.
Sometimes they want accessories which will be more expressive, artistic and unconventional.
And in this case, it is the perfect moment to try floral or artistic clutches.
Floral motifs soften the structured silhouette and give it some additional personality without making it too decorated and complicated.

When will this kind of clutch look good?

It will look good with:

• pastel sarees
• floral lehengas
• minimalist Indian outfits
• Indo-western outfits
• festive dresses
• daytime celebrations
• intimate weddings

Floral clutch can be a perfect option for introducing some colour to the outfit.
Instead of matching a pastel outfit with a similar clutch, you can choose a floral design in a couple of colours.

Let the clutch tell its own story

The best statement accessories are not those which shout.
They create the feeling of curiosity.
A floral motif, an interesting shape or an artistic arrangement of the embellishments can add some interesting touches to your simple look.

Ashriyaa has a collection which is named Lotus Edit.
It consists of floral clutches and statement handbags which are inspired by the lotus motif.
The clutches from this collection are created by combining floral design and structured silhouette.
It is perfect for women who want something more unusual than a conventional clutch.
Especially if their wardrobe already has a lot of classic silhouettes.

5. Potli or Soft-Structured Clutch

The potli has a long history in Indian fashion, but it doesn't mean that it has to be outdated.
The modern potlis are able to combine traditional silhouette, contemporary details and fine craftsmanship, becoming a perfect accessory for modern festive wardrobe.
In comparison to the structured clutch, potli always looks softer and more relaxed.

When should you choose a potli?

Potli is particularly suitable for:

• lehengas
• sarees
• sharara sets
• anarkalis
• traditional festive outfits
• Mehendi celebrations
• wedding functions
• cultural celebrations

Soft silhouette looks particularly good with fluid Indian clothes since it doesn't introduce any sharp geometric shape to the outfit.

Why the festive wardrobe needs a potli?

There are some situations when a structured rectangular clutch isn't the best choice.
When you wear an embroidered lehenga or a traditional saree, potli will emphasize the Indian nature of the outfit without making it too coordinated.
Ashriyaa's collection The Potli Studio consists of handcrafted potlis which are suitable for weddings and festive occasions.
It is possible to choose from more restrained designs to more embellished ones with pearls, beads, crystals and tassels.
And it is all up to you to decide which level of detailing your potli should have depending on your outfit.

Which Clutch Should You Choose?

You aren't sure which kind of clutch you need in your wardrobe?
Consider the occasions first.

If you are building your collection from scratch, there is no need to collect all five at once.
First of all, you should start with the classic structured clutch because it will be easier to style it.
After that, you should add an embroidered statement clutch for weddings and festive occasions.
And then you should choose another style - pearl, brass, floral or potli.

How Many Clutches Should a Woman Own?

There is no magic number.
Instead of accumulating clutches just because they exist, think of the kinds of events which you attend regularly.
And for many women, the following collection of clutches may be sufficient:
one versatile structured clutch
for formal dinners, receptions and events when the understated elegance is needed.
one embellished or embroidered clutch
for weddings, festivals and celebrations.
one statement design
a pearl, brass, floral or artistic clutch for occasions when you want to make an impression with your accessory.
one traditional potli
for lehengas, sarees and heritage inspired outfits.
It will give you enough variety without filling your wardrobe with bags that you will never wear.

How to Make Your Clutch Collection More Versatile

The easiest way to increase the versatility of your clutches is to forget about exact matching and colour coordination.
Instead, you should consider four things:

1. Think of the contrast

Contrasting clutch will make your simple outfit interesting.

2. Think of the texture

Velvet, embroidered, pearl and beaded clutch will add a completely new dimension to a simple dress.

3. Think of the occasion

Although Mehendi and a reception can be the parts of the same wedding, they don't require the same kind of an accessory.

4. Choose the pieces which can be worn with at least three outfits

Clutch shouldn't be chosen only because it is a match to your lehenga.
Just ask yourself:

Is it possible for me to wear this clutch with at least three different outfits?

And if the answer is positive, then you have picked the right piece.

A Clutch Should Complete Your Look, Not Compete With It

The perfect clutch isn't necessarily the one which is decorated with all sorts of ornaments, costly and dazzling.
The perfect clutch is the one which suits the way you dress.
Sometimes it is a clean structured rectangle, sometimes it is an embroidered statement accessory, sometimes it is the pearl and brass sculptural accessory and sometimes nothing suits better than a traditional potli.
Your wardrobe doesn't need dozens of clutches.
It needs the right ones.
Choose the accessories which show your personal style, suit many occasions and add something special to your favourite outfits.
And when the craftsmanship, design and versatility meet, a clutch stops being just an accessory and becomes a piece of your style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many clutches should a woman own?

There is no fixed number. The most practical collection of clutches can be formed by three to four styles: structured clutch, embellished clutch, statement design and traditional potli. You can increase your collection depending on your most frequent occasions.

Which clutch is the best for weddings?

There are many types of clutches which are suitable for weddings: embroidered, embellished, pearl, brass and traditional potli. Depending on your outfit and the kind of the event you can pick the right one.

Which colour clutch is most versatile?

The neutral shades: ivory, champagne, gold, silver and black can be matched with many outfits. But the versatility of the clutch depends on many factors including the texture, metal details and pearl decoration.

Can a clutch be used with Indian and Western outfits?

Of course. The structured, pearl, metal and artistic clutches can be combined with Indian and Western outfits. Just consider the mood, the silhouette and the level of ornamentation of your outfit.

What should I keep in a clutch?

Keep it simple. Depending on the size of the clutch you can carry your phone, cards, some money, keys, lipstick, compact powder and some other small accessories. Don't overpack it because it will change the shape and become inconvenient to carry.

Are embroidered clutches suitable for daytime events?

Of course. Although the embroidery is mostly used for evening events, it is possible to choose lighter shades and a softer decoration for your daytime event. Floral embroidery, light beadwork and pastel shades can look especially nice on a daytime celebration.

How do I choose the right clutch for my outfit?

Start with the occasion, then look at the colour, the texture and the level of detailing of your outfit. If the outfit is heavily embellished, then you should consider a more balanced clutch. If the outfit is simple, you can add some interest to it with the help of the statement clutch. The most important thing is to complement your outfit with it, not to match each detail.

Are the potli bags still fashionable?

Yes. The potli has gone through evolution and now they are available in many contemporary fabrics, decoration, colours and silhouettes. Modern potli bags look excellent with sarees, lehengas, shararas and Indo-western outfits.