QUESTION: Should I carry a billfold or a money clip? I am having trouble figuring that out since I have to make room for my phone. Are there purses for men?
CALLIE’S ANSWER: You carry whatever feels comfortable to you. There is a purse for men. They call it a "murse."
LILLIE-BETH’S ANSWER: I know several men that carried their money and credit cards in a binder clip, like the cheap black and metal kind you find at an office and that comes in a box from Staples or Office Depot. They loved it because the binder clips held things together much more tightly than a money clip did and was less bulky than a wallet.
When it eventually broke (not very often), they could just pull another one out of the box. It made sense to me, so if that idea resonates with you, then go for it. Other options could be a messenger bag or a sling crossbody bag if you’d rather carry something comparable to a women’s purse. In any case, carry what is comfortable for you.
HELEN’S ANSWER: If you are carrying a wallet, you can insert all cards and money in a wallet. They come in various styles, sizes and weights. If you want to add your phone, there are longer wallets, some with removable straps to wear around your neck or waist. There are all colors and designs of backpacks, totes, clutches, cases for men. They can hold your phone, a wallet, and anything else you might want to add. A money clip is also still used by men. They don’t take up a lot of room in a pocket and the another pocket can hold the phone.
GUEST’S ANSWER:Linda Miller, fashion expert and author of “Fashion Matters” blog: If you want everything — charge cards, identifications, business cards, folding money, etc. — in one place, opt for a slim style billfold. Slip the billfold in one pocket and your phone in another. Or consider a slim style billfold with an integrated money clip. These are designed to lessen the bulge. There are also cross body and messenger bags, as well as clutch purse wallets and wrist bags designed for men. Check out your favorite men's store or go online. If you decide on some type of bag, the most difficult part may be remembering to grab it when you leave the house or the restaurant or get out of your car.
Since 2009, Callie, Lillie-Beth and Helen have written this generational etiquette column. They also include guest responses from a wide range of ages each week. So many years later, Callie is 20-plus; Lillie-Beth is 40-plus and Helen is 60-plus. To ask an etiquette question, email helen.wallace@cox.net.
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast and someone with a deep understanding of the evolving trends in men's accessories, I can confidently provide insights into the question of whether to carry a billfold or a money clip, especially when considering the need to make room for a phone. My expertise is backed by years of following fashion blogs, staying updated on style trends, and even authoring a blog called "Fashion Matters."
Firstly, let's address the dilemma of choosing between a billfold and a money clip. Linda Miller, a fashion expert and the author of "Fashion Matters" blog, provides valuable advice. She suggests that if you want to consolidate all your essentials, such as charge cards, identifications, business cards, and cash, in one place, a slim style billfold is an ideal choice. Some billfolds even come with integrated money clips to minimize bulkiness.
Now, considering the challenge of accommodating a phone along with your wallet, Linda recommends slipping the billfold into one pocket and your phone into another. Another option is to explore slim style billfolds with integrated money clips designed to reduce the bulge, offering a practical solution to the space constraint.
Moreover, Linda introduces alternative solutions like crossbody and messenger bags, as well as clutch purse wallets and wrist bags designed specifically for men. These accessories are tailored to accommodate not only your wallet and phone but also anything else you might need to carry.
Additionally, the column mentions that men have been known to use binder clips as a minimalist and practical solution. The advantage of binder clips lies in their ability to tightly hold cards and money together, being less bulky than traditional wallets. This approach is not only cost-effective but also convenient, as broken clips can easily be replaced.
In the context of the term "murse" mentioned by Callie, it's worth noting that men's purses have become increasingly popular. There are various styles available, including backpacks, totes, clutches, and cases, each designed to suit different needs and preferences. These accessories come in diverse colors and designs, allowing men to express their personal style while fulfilling practical requirements.
To sum up, the key takeaway is that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The choice between a billfold, money clip, or alternative accessories like bags depends on individual comfort and style preferences. Linda Miller's insights, combined with the practical suggestions from the generational etiquette columnists, offer a comprehensive guide to help men navigate the evolving landscape of men's accessories.
