I saw this envelope clutch (actually, a slightly larger version) in Fall 2005. I liked it but had no excuse to buy it. A few months later, I realized I DID have an excuse to buy it – the silver one would be great for my wedding. Would match my shoes perfectly. But when I trekked back to the mall to find it, it was sold out. Yet another example of me waiting too long.

I spent several weeks obsessing over this clutch. I called almost every Calvin Klein store and outlet in the country. I checked Nordstroms, Macy’s, Bloomies… it was gone. I finally let it go (I ended up not bothering with a purse at all during the wedding – my maid of honor held on to my lipstick for me).

A couple of months later, I was casually browsing through Macy’s and I saw it again! This time they only had the bronze color, but I snapped it up – paying for it with wedding gift certificates. I was vaguely concerned that I would never use it, but the few times I have had an excuse to carry a clutch it has been great. It is chic and versatile, and I love carrying a bag, rather than slinging one over my shoulder – it gives me something to do with my hands. It is either carry a clutch or take up smoking, and I have a bad heart.