“What’s the difference between a clutch and a minaudière – aren’t they the same thing?” Readers and friends often ask me this question, so I thought why not do a post about this?

First up, let’s talk about the clutch. Like its namesake, the clutch is a bag that you hold in your palm. Traditionally, the clutch was previously only intended for evening and cocktail events. The terms “evening bags” and “clutches” were used quite interchangeably back then. But, gone are the days where the clutch was only confined for evening use. Since the late-2000s, designers began to introduce clutches that came in other forms, which made the bag suitable for daytime use as well. Today, clutches come in several variations: oversized, envelope, flap-top, foldover, gusseted, kiss-lock, zip top, (more appropriately referred to, as pouches), and even with a detachable wrist strap (which, when attached, would morph into what is known as a wristlet). Despite these modifications, they’re still considered as clutches, because its initial concept hasn’t changed – you are still required to hold its in the palm of your hand.

The minaudière on the other hand, is not to be confused with the clutch. As the clutch’s close cousin, it is intended for evening galas and black tie events (though Carrie from Sex and the City used minaudières during the daytime as well). This type of bag is usually a hard-cased, decorative, one-of-a-kind statement piece that has a hard shell-like exterior. Whether they take the form of more whimsical three-dimensional shapes, or conventional rectangular boxy type, they usually come embellished with beads, sequins, glitter, crystals, rhinestones, or jewels. The first thing that comes to mind at the mere mention of “minaudière” is Judith Leiber , or you could opt for Kate Spade’s novelty bags, for a more affordable option.

Take a look below for a closer look at all the clutches and minaudières and clutches featured here

Images via Net-a-Porter, Louis Vuitton, Judith Leiber, Kate Spade, Lulu Guinness,

Featured Items

Saint Laurent Tassled Clutch

$1686

Kate Spade Swan Pool Float Bag

$398

Gucci Leather Pouch

$1025

Judith Leiber Beeksness Beehive Minaudière

$5995

Lulu Guinness Perspex Lips Clutch Shocking Pink

£260

Louis Vuitton Petite Malle

$5500

Judith Leiber Cube Petit Cadeau Box Minaudière

$4695

Valentino Rockstud Clutch

$1765

Judith Leiber French Bulldog Minaudière

$5695

Bottega Veneta "The Lauren 1980" Clutch

$2150

Olympia Le Tan Storybook Clutch

$2536