Decoding the Chequered History of Our Beloved Clutch Bags

But what lies behind the evolution of these modern-day mainstays? Here is finding out.  

What is a Clutch Bag? 

Before delving into the rich history of women’s clutch bags, it is important to first understand what they are. The phrase indicates a broader range of bags today, without any specific attributes or dimensions defining the same. You can call it a flat and small handbag minus any straps or handles. However, there are bigger bags with detachable straps and handles that are also called clutch bags at times. Handheld and slim are two of the key attributes that may be used to define clutch bags. Let us now learn more about their history over the years.  

History of Clutch Bags 

Clutch bags may have had their inception several centuries earlier. Purses and bags were earlier inventions than pockets. Clutch bags may have been early solutions for the issue of carrying valuable yet small items. Such bags have been seen over the ages in tapestries and paintings, although surviving instances are rare. The Courtauld Gallery in London possesses a bag that is 700 years old, and it may be the oldest surviving instance of a clutch bag.  

It has its origins in the city of Mosul in Northern Iraq, and this may indicate that these accessories may have signified status and wealth initially. Ancient bags had robust brass bodies and were inlaid with courtly life scenes in silver and gold. A flap in front was attached with a catch. Women had smaller bags in medieval Europe which were linked to a girdle or belt with a chatelaine. This was a small hook that would become a jewelry item in the future as well. The Middle Ages saw purses and bags being concealed for security purposes. However, fashion changes led to them becoming objects of luxury and desire.  

Pompeii, being discovered in the late-18th century, was a moment of reckoning for global clothing and architecture. Women’s clothing started getting lighter and pockets could not be disguised within the folds anymore. The reticule, the predecessor of the clutch bag, was born as a result. It was a small bag that had a similar design to the modern clutch, worn from the shoulder by a chain or cord. With women’s emancipation being a focal point of the 19th century, bags started getting bigger and the reticule vanished. In the 1920s, the classic clutch bag came about, with leading brands creating gem-studded clutches that became popular amongst Hollywood stars and affluent socialites. The rationing of materials due to the Second World War led to the higher popularity of clutches as daily items which were initially an accessory for the super-rich.  

Women’s clutch bags always had an element of theatricality about them. They were also regarded as symbols of luxury that drew the eye instantly. Princess Diana was famous for using her own clutch to cover her upper body while getting out of cars or in situations where high-angle photographs would lead to undesirable pictures. Modern royal Kate Middleton has also been seen holding her clutch with both hands at various occasions. The clutch bag has now evolved into varieties like classic clutches, day clutches, envelope clutches, and evening clutches.  

Conclusion 

Clutches should also be held properly to make the right fashion impact. You should hold them at the bottom, keeping one hand free. It may also be held with both hands in front of your body. Holding at the end signifies a more casual stance while holding at the top is another option, especially by extending your index finger. If nothing else works, simply tuck your clutch beneath your arm. The rich history of our beloved clutch bags indicates how they have only grown relevant over the years while being reinvented periodically to serve evolving needs.