The Career Clutch Comeback

 from left to right, all from SS 12: Celine, Lanvin & Prada

The career clutch is returning this season. Judging by the above shots, Phoebe Philo, Alber Elbaz & Miuccia Prada have definitely put an effortlessly cool and modern spin to multicolor leather paneled envelope clutches and portfolio clutches. 

Once known only as an evening go-to in the 70s, the envelope clutch has grown to become an everyday staple. The Spring's palette of lighter hues and textured leathers add a modern touch to this piece. While the latter is purely designed to beautify its wearer's ladylike demeanor, the portfolio clutch serves a dual purpose: an accessory that once held paper files in the 60s and 70s now rides the wave of iPad-friendly accessories and carries the newest technological devices. Wait until you see this fine innovation, as ever-slimmer silhouettes have emerged, with envelope flap closures for Lanvin or sleek zippers for Prada. 

Often tinted in sandy beige or soft pink for Spring, these contemporary must-haves have yet to raid the streets. I'd be curious to see how well they become adopted as every fashion insider's arm candy. What do you say? Do you want a piece of that candy too?