Dictionary

A small ornamental case for a woman’s cosmetics, jewelry, or personal items that is often carried as a handbag. It’s a clutch purse, often encrusted with precious or costume gemstones; invented and named by jewelers Van Cleef & Arpels in 1930 (more likely from the French verb “minaudière”, which means to smirk or simper), the original was metallic, and contained various small compartments for money, lipstick, keys, etc. — in accord with the streamlined Art Deco style prevailing in women’s evening wear; now a generic term, referring to any small bag, though most properly one that is hard, hinged and is opened with a clasp. Historically known for their diminutive size and tough metal casings, these little LUX bags have been socially revered for their elegance and beauty. Today, the pint-size clutch has broken its stereotypical mold of evening only and has recently been fashioned for big style at any time of day. Of course , one can still expect to find high-shine and drama amongst the special occasion editions of these mini works of art.