Ladies shoulder bag clutch, green

Small underarm bags like these came into fashion in the 1920s, because ladies were now also traveling (alone) more often and needed an elegant little bag. However, the handy bag has only been called a clutch for a few years now. A characteristic feature of the clutch is that it is made without a shoulder strap. With its large flap, our model is more akin to the classic envelope bag anyway - so the strap is a welcome addition and allows the bag to be used as a small shoulder bag during the day or in the city if you only want to carry the essentials. The highlight here is a rubber band that keeps the flap closed.

Harold's makes this small handbag from very supple, green-colored lambskin leather. The outside of the body consists of two large leather blanks, which are folded over in the lower third, then overlocked and sewn together to create a beautiful surface on the outside without dividing seams. Inside, this design results in three unlined zippered compartments, one of which is concealed in the flap. The open-edged, adjustable leather strap in contrasting black is inserted into the body and neatly locked in place.

Harold’ has its leather goods designed in Germany and manufactured in a Colombian manufactory. The fruitful cooperation goes back to the mid-1980s. Eventually, it involves more than usual: Based on legal employment contracts, the collaboration provides the Columbian workers with reliable working conditions, ensures their coverage in health and accident insurances, and contributes to a pension scheme. Therefore, many of the employees have been working in the company for more than 20 years. Over the years, they have accumulated relevant expertise and experience in leather processing. That’s not a given in South America’s leather goods industry: Typical for the sector is a high proportion of migrant workers and fluctuations in the workforce. No less impressive is Harold’s conscientious handling of the extensive safety regulations: The working conditions meet European standards, for example, by putting forward muffled acoustics, adequate floor space and exemplary cleanliness. A large part of the machinery originates in Europe as well. The leather comes from nearby kept cattle grazing outdoors all year round, as is customary in South America. The tanned leather’s surface still shows the natural grain and traces of the animal’s life, such as mosquito bites or small cracks, and soon the patina typical of leather will form on it. Harold’s has the lining fabrics and metal parts produced by partner companies based close to the Colombian manufactory.