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The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Handcrafted Clutch Online
by Shriya Kedia on Sep 01 2026
Choosing a clutch online sounds simple until you actually start shopping.
A design might look beautiful in photos, but there are a few practical questions worth asking before you buy. Will your phone fit? Is the embroidery as detailed as it looks? Will the clutch work with more than one outfit? Is it comfortable enough to carry for hours? And what happens if it arrives damaged?
These questions matter even more when you're shopping for a handcrafted clutch online.
Unlike a basic everyday bag, a handcrafted clutch may feature intricate embroidery, delicate embellishments, unusual materials, sculptural shapes and detailed hardware. Those are exactly the things that make it special, but they also mean you need to look a little more closely before placing an order.
The good news is that you don't need to be an expert. You just need to know what to check.
From size and materials to craftsmanship, product photos and return policies, here's what to look for when buying a handcrafted clutch online.
What Does “Handcrafted” Really Mean?
The term handcrafted is used quite broadly in fashion, so it doesn't always mean that every part of a product has been made entirely by hand.
You may come across several similar terms:
Handcrafted
A handcrafted product usually involves skilled craftsmanship in the making or assembly of the piece. The exact process can vary depending on the product and the brand.
Hand-Embellished
This usually means that decorative details such as embroidery, sequins, beads or other embellishments have been applied by hand.
Artisan-Made
This term generally highlights the involvement of individual craftspeople or specialist makers.
Handmade
Handmade can suggest that a significant part of the product was created by hand, although the exact meaning depends on how the brand defines its production process.
That is why it is always better to go beyond the label and read the actual product description.
Look for information about materials, construction, embroidery, embellishment and hardware.
For example, Ashriyaa describes its Vyanika clutch as handcrafted and gives details about its half-moon brass structure, mother-of-pearl, grid-textured silverwork, hammered metal, wire filigree, crystal dome clasp and detachable silver sling chain.
The more specific the product description is, the easier it becomes to understand what you are actually paying for.
1. Start With the Occasion
Before you start thinking about colour or embroidery, ask yourself one simple question:
Where am I going to carry this clutch?
A clutch for a wedding reception may need to do something very different from one you would carry to a festive lunch.
For a Wedding
You might consider:
Embroidered clutches
Pearl detailing
Zari work
Beaded designs
Rich fabrics
Statement shapes
For a Reception
Look for something more polished, such as:
Structured clutches
Pearl or metallic details
Sophisticated neutrals
Sculptural shapes
Refined embellishment
For a Festive Dinner
You can be a little more playful with:
Colourful embroidery
Floral motifs
Metallic accents
Artistic designs
For a Party
This is a good time to try something bolder:
Unusual silhouettes
Bright colours
Sparkling embellishments
Sculptural shapes
For a Formal Event
A cleaner design may work better.
Consider:
Minimal detailing
Elegant shapes
Neutral or sophisticated colours
Refined hardware
For More Frequent Use
Versatility matters more than heavy embellishment.
A clutch that works with a saree, a suit and a contemporary outfit will probably get more use than one that only suits a single wedding function.
2. Choose the Right Size
One of the easiest mistakes to make when buying a clutch online is judging its size from photographs alone.
A clutch can look roomy in a product image and still turn out to be much smaller than expected.
Before ordering, think about what you actually need to carry.
For most occasions, that may include:
Smartphone
Cards
Cash
Lipstick
Compact
Keys
You do not necessarily need the biggest clutch you can find.
What matters is whether it fits your essentials comfortably.
Small Clutch
A smaller clutch may be enough if you only need:
Phone
Cards
Lipstick
A few small essentials
This size often works well for formal events where you want something lightweight and refined.
Medium Clutch
A medium clutch is often a practical option for weddings and celebrations.
It may give you enough space for your phone, cards, keys and a few makeup essentials without looking bulky.
Large Clutch
A larger clutch can be useful if you genuinely need more space.
Just remember that a bigger bag may also be heavier and may affect the overall balance of your outfit.
The better question is not:
“How big is the clutch?”
It is:
“Will it comfortably hold what I actually need?”
3. Check the Material Before You Buy
A photograph shows you what the clutch looks like.
The product description should tell you what it is made from.
That matters because material affects the appearance, texture, weight and care of the clutch.
Velvet
Velvet gives a clutch a rich, luxurious look and works especially well with embroidery and embellishment.
Its deep surface can make zari, sequins, beads and other decorative details stand out beautifully.
Fabric
Fabric clutches can range from understated to heavily embellished.
Always check what the base fabric is and how it has been finished.
Brass
Brass can give a clutch a more structured and sculptural feel.
It becomes especially interesting when combined with decorative techniques or contrasting materials.
Ashriyaa's Vyanika, for example, uses a half-moon brass structure along with mother-of-pearl, hammered metal, silverwork and wire filigree.
Embellished Surfaces
Beads, sequins, pearls, cutdana and other embellishments can completely change the look of a clutch.
Do not assume that every shiny detail is made from the same material. Check the description carefully.
Hardware
Also pay attention to:
Clasps
Chains
Handles
Hinges
Closures
Decorative metalwork
Hardware affects both how the clutch looks and how practical it is to use.
4. Look Closely at the Craftsmanship
This is one of the biggest differences between shopping for a handcrafted clutch and buying a simple mass-produced accessory.
Do not judge the product only from the main image.
Check the Embroidery
If close-up photographs are available, look carefully.
Ask yourself:
Does the embroidery look even and consistent?
Are the motifs clearly defined?
Do the details look secure?
Does the placement feel intentional?
Check the Embellishment
If the clutch has pearls, sequins, beads or cutdana, zoom in on the product images if possible.
You want to see how carefully the embellishments have been arranged.
Check the Clasp
A clasp is not just decorative.
You will open and close it repeatedly, so it should look both attractive and functional.
Check the Edges
Look at how the edges are finished.
Clean construction can tell you a lot about the overall attention to detail.
Check the Lining
If there are interior photographs, look at them.
A beautiful exterior is only part of the experience.
Check the Chain
If the clutch includes a chain, see whether it is detachable or fixed and how it attaches to the bag.
The main idea is simple:
Use all the information available on the product page, not just the first photograph.
5. Don't Ignore the Weight
A heavily embellished clutch may look stunning.
But imagine holding it through a four-hour wedding function.
That is when weight becomes important.
Metalwork, embellishment and structural materials can all add to the overall weight of the bag.
If the product weight is listed, check it.
If it is not, look at the construction and materials. If comfort matters a lot to you, it may be worth contacting the brand before ordering.
This is especially important if you expect to spend a lot of time standing, dancing or moving around.
Remember:
Beautiful does not automatically mean comfortable.
The best clutch is one you can actually enjoy carrying.
6. Check the Dimensions Before Ordering
Never rely only on a model photograph to judge the size of a clutch.
Look for exact measurements such as:
Length
Width
Height
Depth
Then compare those numbers with the things you usually carry.
One simple trick is to measure your phone with a ruler and compare its dimensions with the listed clutch measurements.
You can do the same with your compact, lipstick or small wallet.
This gives you a much clearer idea of whether your essentials will actually fit.
Don't Forget the Interior Shape
Two clutches can have very similar external measurements but completely different usable space.
Interior capacity can be affected by:
Thickness
Compartments
Clasp construction
Curved or unusual shapes
Internal padding
A sculptural clutch may offer less interior space because of its design.
That is not necessarily a problem. You just need to know before you buy it.
7. Look for More Than One Carrying Option
A clutch is traditionally carried in the hand, but an additional carrying option can make it much more practical.
Some designs include a detachable sling chain, allowing you to carry the same bag by hand or over the shoulder.
This can be particularly useful at weddings when you need your hands free for:
Greeting guests
Taking photographs
Eating
Dancing
Carrying other small items
Ashriyaa currently lists detachable chains on several designs, including Zahra, Nura and Vyanika.
So while shopping, do not only ask:
“Does this clutch look good?”
Also ask:
“How will I actually carry it during the event?”
8. Read the Return, Exchange and Delivery Policies
This is one of the most important parts of shopping for fashion online.
Before you place an order, check the brand's current policies on:
Delivery timelines
Returns
Exchanges
Damaged products
Cancellations
Payment methods
International shipping, if relevant
This matters even more with handcrafted or made-to-order items because policies may be different from those for regular products.
Check the policy before paying, not after the parcel arrives.
According to the information provided, Ashriyaa currently states that refunds and returns are generally not offered, while exchanges are available only in specific circumstances.
Its policy information also states that damaged or defective products should be reported within 48 hours, along with images and an opening video for verification.
Because policies can change, it is always best to check the latest information on the brand's website at the time of purchase.
9. Study the Product Photos Carefully
When you cannot physically inspect a clutch before buying it, product photography becomes extremely important.
Ideally, a good product page should show the bag from several angles.
Front View
Helps you understand the main design.
Back View
Shows how the clutch is constructed and whether the back is plain, embellished or finished differently.
Close-Up
Especially useful for checking:
Texture
Embroidery
Beads
Pearls
Sequins
Hardware
Interior View
Useful for judging:
Interior space
Lining
Compartments
Closure
Model or Styling Image
This helps you understand the proportions of the clutch when it is actually carried.
Size Reference
A photograph showing the clutch in someone's hand can be useful, but never rely on it instead of actual measurements.
Dimensions are more reliable than visual perception.
10. Look Beyond the Colour
Colour is usually one of the first things we notice when shopping.
But it should not be the only reason you choose a clutch.
Think about how the clutch will work with the clothes you already own.
Champagne, ivory, gold and silver can be versatile, but a neutral colour does not automatically make a clutch practical for every occasion.
A heavily embellished neutral clutch can still feel very formal.
At the same time, a colourful clutch may actually work with more outfits if its embroidery includes several shades that already appear in your wardrobe.
Instead of asking:
“Will this match one outfit?”
Ask:
“How many outfits could I realistically wear this with?”
That is a much better way to judge versatility.
11. Choose Craftsmanship Over a Passing Trend
Trends can be fun, but a clutch is often something you want to use for more than one season.
A highly trend-driven design may feel dated fairly quickly.
Good craftsmanship tends to have more staying power because it comes from materials, construction and detailing rather than a temporary fashion moment.
That does not mean you need to avoid contemporary designs.
A better approach is to look for balance between:
Trend
Craftsmanship
Personal style
Versatility
Ashriyaa's range includes both traditional and contemporary interpretations of occasion bags.
Vyanika, for example, combines a sculptural half-moon shape with brass, mother-of-pearl, silverwork and wire filigree, while other designs focus more heavily on embroidery and embellishment.
That variety is useful because a handcrafted clutch does not have to fit one particular style.
What to Check on a Product Page
Before clicking “Buy Now,” run through a quick checklist.
Product Details
Is the material clearly mentioned?
Are the dimensions provided?
Is the weight listed?
Are the embellishments described?
Is the closure explained?
Craftsmanship
Are close-up images available?
Can you see the embroidery clearly?
Are the edges and hardware visible?
Is the interior shown?
Functionality
Will your phone fit?
Will your essentials fit?
Are there compartments?
Is there a detachable chain?
Purchase Information
What is the delivery timeline?
What is the return or exchange policy?
What happens if the product arrives damaged?
Which payment methods are available?
If you know the answers before ordering, you are far less likely to be disappointed later.
Handcrafted Clutch vs. Mass-Produced Clutch
Neither option is automatically better.
It depends on what you value most.
Factor
Handcrafted Clutch
Mass-Produced Clutch
Design
Often more distinctive
Usually more standardised
Detailing
May feature intricate embellishment
Usually more uniform
Character
Often has an artisanal feel
Often more trend-focused
Styling
Works well for statement occasions
Can be versatile depending on design
Price
May reflect craftsmanship and materials
Available across a wider price range
Uniqueness
Often a major attraction
Identical styles are usually easier to find
A handcrafted clutch may be the better choice if you value distinctive design, detailed craftsmanship and occasion-focused accessories.
A mass-produced clutch may suit you perfectly if you care more about simplicity, availability or price.
The important thing is understanding what you are paying for.
How to Choose a Handcrafted Clutch for a Wedding
If you are shopping mainly for a wedding, start with the specific function.
Mehendi
Look for:
Colourful embroidery
Floral motifs
Lighter designs
Playful embellishment
Sangeet
Consider:
Sequins
Beads
Metallic detailing
Statement colours
Sparkling finishes
Wedding Ceremony
Look for:
Traditional embroidery
Zari
Pearls
Rich fabrics
Gold or antique finishes
Reception
Consider:
Structured silhouettes
Pearl detailing
Metallic accents
Sophisticated neutrals
Contemporary designs
The same clutch does not need to work for every function.
But a versatile design may allow you to wear it across several events.
How to Know Whether a Clutch Is Worth Buying
Before purchasing, think about three things.
1. How Often Will You Use It?
A clutch that works for weddings, festive dinners and receptions is more practical than one that only works with a single outfit.
2. Does It Suit Your Personal Style?
Do not buy an elaborate clutch just because it is trending.
If your wardrobe is usually understated, a refined embellished clutch may serve you better than something extremely bold.
3. Can You Style It Three Different Ways?
Try imagining the clutch with:
Outfit 1: A sareeOutfit 2: A lehenga or suitOutfit 3: A contemporary evening outfit
If you can picture it working with all three, it is probably a versatile purchase.
Why Buying a Handcrafted Clutch Online Can Still Be Worth It
The biggest disadvantage of online shopping is that you cannot touch or inspect the product in person.
But a detailed product page can still give you a lot of useful information.
You can check:
Product photographs
Dimensions
Materials
Embellishment details
Carrying options
Product descriptions
Reviews
Delivery information
Exchange policies
Ashriyaa's product pages, for example, include information about materials, styling, carrying options and product details across both embroidered and sculptural designs.
The key is not to rush.
Do not buy a clutch simply because the first image looks beautiful.
Read. Compare. Measure. Then decide.
Your Online Clutch-Buying Checklist
Before placing your order, ask yourself:
Occasion: Where will I wear it?Size: Will my essentials fit?Material: Do I understand what it is made from?Craftsmanship: Have I seen enough close-up detail?Weight: Will it be comfortable to carry?Dimensions: Have I checked the actual measurements?Carrying: Does it have another carrying option if I need one?Policy: Do I understand the delivery, exchange and damage policy?Versatility: Can I style it with more than one outfit?Personal style: Would I still like it if the current trend disappeared?
If you can confidently answer all ten, you are probably making a well-informed purchase.
Explore Handcrafted Clutches That Suit Your Style
Once you know what you are looking for, shopping becomes much easier.
If you want to compare designer clutches for women, Ashriyaa's collection includes different silhouettes, materials and embellishment styles.
For something more sculptural, the Pearl Brass Series focuses on statement designs with structured forms.
If you prefer a more traditional Indian silhouette, The Potli Studio offers handcrafted potli bags suited to weddings and festive occasions.
And if you are looking for something that stands out, Ashriyaa's selection of statement occasion bags offers another place to explore.
The goal is not to buy the most elaborate clutch.
It is to find one that suits your wardrobe, your occasions and your personal style.
Final Thoughts: Buy the Clutch, Not Just the Photograph
Online shopping makes it very easy to fall in love with a beautiful image and immediately click “Add to Cart.”
With a handcrafted clutch, it is worth taking a little more time.
Look closely at the details.
Understand the materials.
Check the dimensions.
Think about what you actually need to carry.
Read the delivery and exchange information.
And most importantly, imagine the clutch outside the product photograph.
Imagine carrying it at a wedding.
Imagine pairing it with your saree.
Imagine reaching for it again six months later with a completely different outfit.
Because the best handcrafted clutch is not simply the one that looks beautiful online.
It is the one that still feels beautiful, useful and right for you once it arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a good clutch online?
Start with the occasion, size, materials, craftsmanship and versatility. Check the dimensions, read the product description carefully, look at close-up photographs and understand the brand's current delivery and exchange policy before ordering.
What size clutch should I buy?
Choose the size based on what you genuinely need to carry. For most occasions, that may include your phone, cards, cash, lipstick, compact and keys. Compare those items with the listed dimensions instead of judging size from photographs alone.
How can I tell if a clutch is well made?
Look for clear product information and close-up photographs showing the embroidery, embellishments, clasp, edges, lining and hardware. Consistent detailing, secure-looking embellishments and clean finishing can help you assess the quality.
Are handcrafted clutches worth buying?
They can be, especially if you value distinctive design and detailed craftsmanship. Their value depends on the materials, construction, versatility, craftsmanship and price, not simply on the word “handcrafted.”
What should I check before buying a clutch online?
Check the material, dimensions, weight if available, interior space, closure, embellishments, carrying options, delivery timeline and return or exchange policy. Also look at the product from several angles.
How do I know if my phone will fit inside a clutch?
Measure your phone and compare its dimensions with the listed clutch measurements. If the interior dimensions are not provided, contact the brand before buying rather than relying only on product photographs.
How should I care for a handcrafted clutch?
Care depends on the material. In general, keep the clutch away from water, direct sunlight, perfume and rough surfaces. Store it in a cool, dry place and use a dust bag or soft pouch when recommended. Always follow the brand's specific care instructions.
Ashriyaa currently recommends keeping its bags in a cool, dry place, avoiding water and direct sunlight, cleaning them with a soft dry cloth and storing them in the provided dust bag.
Are handcrafted clutches suitable for everyday use?
Some are, but many handcrafted clutches are designed mainly for weddings, festive events and special occasions. If you want something for more regular use, look for a lighter, simpler design with enough space for your essentials and a practical carrying option.
News
How to Style a Clutch with Indian Outfits: 10 Looks That Actually Work
by Shriya Kedia on Sep 01 2026
Often, people view the clutch as one of the last items to choose when preparing for a wedding.However, this bag can perform much more functions than holding your cell phone and lipstick.The right clutch will complement the simplicity of the attire, highlight a colour in the embroidery, balance an embellished lehenga or add an Indian twist to a contemporary outfit.Also, you don't necessarily need to match the colour of your bag with your outfit.Sometimes, it is better to think of the clutch as a complementing accessory that will make your look complete.In this post, we'll discuss how to style your clutch with sarees, lehengas, shararas, kurta sets and modern Indo-western attires.
No More Wedding Accessories Only
For many years, the clutch was seen as an indispensable accessory for weddings, receptions and evening events.Now, this beautiful bag can complete festive outfits for day and night parties, intimate events and even a dinner or an Indo-western attire.Here's what you need to keep in mind when choosing a bag:
the silhouette of the outfit
the amount of detailing on the outfit
the visual weight of the clutch
Instead of asking yourself, "Which clutch matches my outfit?", you can start thinking, "Which clutch will complement my outfit?"This slight shift in the question can significantly affect how you will style the clutch.
Style 1: Clutch + Saree
Nothing is more elegant than a saree and a clutch.However, the type of the bag greatly depends on the saree.
Structured Saree → Structured Clutch
If you are wearing a crisp, silk, organza or structured saree, a structured bag will complement it perfectly.Consider:
rectangular shapes
metallic detailing
minimal embroidery
sculptural designs
The neat shape of the clutch will balance the structure of the saree.
Soft Saree → Embellished or Pearl Clutch
If you have a flowing saree made of chiffon, georgette or other soft fabrics, an elaborately decorated or a pearl bag can create an interesting combination.You can decorate it with beads, pearls, embroidery and other embellishments to add texture to your look.
Plain Saree → Statement Clutch
This is your chance to be more creative.A white, black or colourful saree will allow you to introduce some:
colourful embroidery
beads
sequins
floral prints
metallic detailing
Instead of accentuating yourself with statement pieces such as jewelry or headpieces, make the clutch your statement accessory.If you prefer clean silhouettes, Ashriyaa's Classic Rectangles collection may serve as a good starting point for styling sarees.
Style 2: Clutch + Lehenga
Lehenga is always a statement garment.Therefore, you will have to be more cautious with the clutch choice.
Elaborate Lehenga → Refined Clutch
If your lehenga is covered with:
dense embroidery
sequins
zari
heavy borders
intricate motifs
there is no need in an additional statement accessory.In this case, you can use a refined clutch.It can be decorated with pearls, metallic elements or have a neat, structured silhouette.
Minimal Lehenga → Statement Clutch
In case of the minimalist lehenga, you have more freedom.This is your opportunity to introduce:
bold embroidery
colourful detailing
statement pearls
sculptural brass
artistic motifs
Think of the clutch as an accessory that defines the look.
Style 3: Clutch + Anarkali
As Anarkali is a flowing garment, you should be careful when choosing an accessory that would complement the style.If your Anarkali has details such as embroidery near the neckline or bodice, select a clutch that will highlight one of the tones or textures of your outfit without copying the pattern.For the heavily embroidered Anarkali, try refined pearl, metallic or minimally embroidered clutches.For the minimalist Anarkali, consider colourful or statement embroidered clutches.In some cases, you can even use your accessory as a contrasting one.A green saree combined with a champagne clutch looks more elegant than two green clutches which complement each other perfectly.
Style 4: Clutch + Sharara
Sharara sets are festive outfits, which means that you can play with your accessory more freely.You can choose a bag which will add colour and texture to your look.
Experiment with Colourful Embroidery
A multicoloured bag can help you pick up different shades of your sharara, although not matching the colour of the base of the garment.
Use Pearl Details
Pearls will look great together with soft and pastel sharara sets.
Consider Potli Shape
In case of your sharply traditional sharara, a potli will help you create the same mood.If you prefer more traditional Indian silhouettes with modern touches, you can take Ashriyaa's The Potli Studio as a source of inspiration.What you need to take into account is the proportions of the outfit.An overly flared sharara will already look voluminous, so an oversized accessory will seem excessive.Thus, a compact clutch or potli may help you achieve the balance.
Style 5: Clutch + Saree for a Reception
Reception outfit is different from a bridal one.There is no need to be extremely traditional and glamorous in order to look beautiful and feminine.In this case, you can rely on sophisticated clutches.They may consist of:
pearl details
brass
metallic finish
structured silhouette
champagne
silver
subtle embellishment
A sculptural pearl or brass clutch will create a sophisticated contrast with your flowing saree.If you are looking for something suitable for an evening party, take into consideration Ashriyaa's Pearl Brass Series, which features statement clutches that include pearl details and brass constructions.The most important thing is to be moderate.If your saree is already embellished, you can accentuate it using a refined clutch.
Style 6: Clutch + Indo-Western Outfit
Forget about the traditional equation – Indian outfit + traditional clutch.Experiment by combining a handcrafted clutch with:
draped skirts
Indo-western dresses
saree gowns
crop tops and skirts
contemporary jackets worn with ethnic separates
modern fusion garments
A sculptural bag will help you add the element of Indian craftsmanship to your look without making it overly traditional.For example, the collection of Vyanika created by Ashriyaa consists of the sculptural half-moon brass silhouettes which are decorated with mother-of-pearl, silverwork, hammered metal and wire filigree.The products of this collection are positioned for sarees, contemporary gowns and Indo-western looks.Therefore, you can see how an Indian-inspired handcrafted accessory can become multifunctional.(ashriyaa.com)This will be especially helpful if you want your accessory to be distinctive rather than traditional "wedding-only".
Style 7: Clutch + Simple Kurta Set
You don't have to wear a wedding gown to wear a beautiful clutch.A simple kurta set will provide you with one of the greatest opportunities for creating a statement look with the help of an accessory.For example:
white kurta set + colourful embroidered clutch
black kurta set + pearl clutch
pastel kurta set + metallic clutch
The simplicity of the outfit will give you enough space for adding a statement accessory.Instead of introducing numerous jewelry, headpieces or elaborate earrings, use a clutch as your hero accessory.This technique will be especially helpful in the following situations:
festive lunches
family gatherings
Diwali celebrations
dinner dates
cultural events
small celebrations
You will find more occasions for wearing your clutches.
Style 8: Clutch + Pastel Indian Outfit
Pastels are tricky to style.Too dark or too heavy accessory can spoil your delicate pastel outfit.Try to introduce:
pearl
ivory
champagne
soft gold
rose gold
silver
muted floral embroidery
Pearl detailing will enhance the softness of your pastel outfit without spoiling it.For example, an ivory or champagne clutch will look more elegant combined with the blush pink saree than the identical pink clutch.Similarly, a mint green outfit will look beautiful with the addition of silver or pearl detailing.Thus, you need to emphasize the softness of the outfit without ruining it.
Style 9: Clutch + Monochrome Outfit
A monochrome outfit is the best opportunity to have a statement accessory.If you are wearing one dominant colour, a clutch can help you diversify your look.For instance:
all-black outfit + colourful embroidered clutch
all-ivory outfit + antique-gold clutch
all-white outfit + vibrant floral clutch
all-navy outfit + silver embellished clutch
You don't have to introduce too many colours.One right clutch will be enough.The embroidery or floral print can help you introduce several complementary tones in your look without overwhelming your outfit.
Style 10: Clutch + Contemporary Evening Look
Who says that a handcrafted clutch has to be combined with Indian clothing?A gorgeous clutch can be combined with:
evening gowns
slip dresses
satin dresses
tailored separates
cocktail dresses
minimal evening looks
The most important thing here is the visual weight of the clutch.The heavily embroidered clutch will look outstanding against the backdrop of the simple gown because it acts as a clean surface.Sculptural pearl or brass clutches will also add the unexpected element to your contemporary look.Thus, the handcrafted accessories can become even more interesting.They don't have to make your outfit more traditional.They have to make it more individual.
How to Match Your Clutch Without Actually Matching It
One of the most common mistakes is trying to match your accessories perfectly.If you are wearing a pink lehenga, you will get a pink clutch.In case of the gold embroidery, you will purchase the gold clutch.In case of the pearl jewellery, you will choose the pearl accessory.However, the result can be too harmonious sometimes.Try to think about visual connections.
Match the Mood
Your sophisticated saree can be combined with the sophisticated structured clutch even if their colours are different.
Match the Texture
Pearls will complement your silk.Embroidery will complement the woven fabrics.The metallic detailing will complement your satin.
Match One Tone
If your outfit has five colours in its embroidery, choose a clutch that will pick up one of them.
Create Contrast
Contrasting clutch will make your outfit more diverse.The goal is not to make your clutch blend into your outfit.The goal is to make it look like a part of the outfit.
5 Clutch-Styling Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best clutch can become inappropriate if it is used in the wrong way.Here are five mistakes you have to avoid.
1. Matching Every Accessory Exactly
Your clutch, shoes, jewellery and outfit don't have to be of the same tone and colour.Choose harmony instead of the identical colours.
2. Choosing a Clutch That Is Too Small
It doesn't matter how beautiful the clutch is.If it can't fit your phone, cards and other essentials, it won't be useful.Always check the size of the clutch before purchasing it.
3. Combining Heavy Jewelry With a Heavily Embellished Clutch
If you are wearing elaborate earrings and necklace, don't choose an equally embellished clutch.You need to leave one hero element.
4. Ignoring the Undertones of the Clutch
Not every gold looks the same.Gold can be warm and yellow or antique and champagne-toned.Similarly, silver can range from the bright and cool to the darker and muted.Thus, pay attention to the undertones of your accessories and outfit.
5. Carrying a Clutch Unsuitable for the Occasion
If you are having a daytime family gathering, a heavily embellished bridal-style clutch may look excessive.On the other hand, a very minimal clutch may disappear in the midst of an elaborately decorated reception outfit.Always consider:
Where are you going?
What are you wearing?
How formal is the occasion?
How to Choose a Clutch That Can Be Worn with Different Outfits
You don't need a separate clutch for each occasion.Instead, choose the accessories that can be worn with multiple looks.For example, a sophisticated pearl or metallic clutch can work with:
a saree
a lehenga
an evening gown
A brightly coloured embroidered clutch can be worn with:
a plain saree
a kurta set
a sharara
A structured neutral clutch can be worn with:
a formal saree
an Anarkali
a contemporary dress
Thus, versatility is the main aspect you need to consider when purchasing an occasion bag.Clutch that can be worn with three outfits is likely to become your wardrobe staple.
What to Carry in Your Clutch?
Apart from styling considerations, practical aspects should be taken into account as well.For most occasions, you will need:
phone
cards
some cash
lipstick
compact
keys
small essentials
Don't fill your clutch with everything you have just because you can.Overfilling can change the shape of the clutch and make it uncomfortable to carry.If your clutch has a detachable sling chain, you can switch the carrying method during the event.Currently, several Ashriyaa designs come with a detachable sling chain, including Vyanika and selected embroidered and embellished clutches. (ashriyaa.com)
The Right Clutch Should Be a Part of Your Outfit
The best styling isn't about following a formula.It is about balance.A structured saree can be complemented by the structured clutch.A simple saree can carry the statement design.A heavy lehenga can be balanced with the refined clutch.A pastel outfit can be complemented with the pearls.The monochrome look can become more diverse with the contrasting clutch.The contemporary gown can be complemented with the handcrafted Indian-inspired accessory.Thus, the good clutch doesn't simply complete the look.It allows you to express yourself.When styling your outfit, don't choose your clutch last.Take a look at the entire outfit.Then ask yourself a question:Do I want my clutch to blend in, balance my look or be a statement?After finding the answer, choosing the right accessory becomes much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which clutch looks best with a saree?
Depending on the type of the saree (fabric, colour, structure, embellishment), you can choose one of the options.Structured sarees can be matched with structured clutches.Soft sarees can be complemented with the embellished or pearl bags.Plain saree provides you with the opportunity to wear a statement clutch.
What clutch should I wear with a lehenga?
If your lehenga is densely embellished, choose a refined clutch that won't compete with your outfit.In case of the minimalist lehenga, you can accentuate your look with the statement, embroidered, pearl or sculptural clutch.
Should my clutch match my Indian outfit?
You don't have to match your clutch to your outfit.Instead of the matching your accessories, you have to pay attention to the complementary colours, textures and metallic finishes.You can choose the colours that will pick up one of the tones in your outfit's embroidery.
Can I wear a clutch with a salwar suit?
Yes, of course.A clutch can make your simple salwar or kurta set more elegant and festive.In case of the minimal outfit, an embroidered or statement clutch can add colour and texture without the need in multiple accessories.
What colour clutch goes with most Indian outfits?
The shades such as ivory, champagne, gold, silver and black are versatile.However, the versatility also depends on the design and detailing of the clutch. There may be instances where a clutch made up of several complementary colors works better than a highly specialized clutch of a single color.
Is it possible to carry a handmade clutch with Western attire?
Yes, a clutch that is structured, sculptural, pearl, metallic or embroidered works wonderfully well with a modern dress or an evening gown. A simple dress can be the ideal base to go with a statement clutch.
What kind of clutch will work well with a wedding reception?
Structured pearl, brass, metallic or embroidered clutch works really well for weddings receptions. You can opt for how much embellishment you want to add based on the kind of dress you are wearing.
Can I carry a clutch during a long wedding event?
Yes, you can, but remember comfort first. See how heavy the clutch is and what its size is and see how easy or difficult it is to carry. A clutch with a chain which can be detached helps greatly at such events.
