A wallet is one of the most important accessories a girl can own – after all, you use it multiple times a day, every single day.
When picking out a wallet, there are a lot of factors to consider: Do you prefer a wallet that zips shut, or would you rather have something with a snap closure? Is it important that your wallet be a neutral color, or do you prefer something more fun? Wallets are meant to be practical, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring!
Below, we’ll guide you through the process of investing in a new wallet, plus show you some adorable wallets for every budget.
If you’re ready to pick out a new wallet…
1. Consider the Size
You should first think about what size is best for you. Do you want something that folds up, or do you prefer a long wallet? Are you going to be carrying around a checkbook? What about your passport? Does folding your money bother you? Do you plan on carrying your wallet in all your bags, clutches and small purses? How many items are you planning on keeping in your wallet?
If you’re not sure if a specific wallet will meet your size needs, it’s a good idea to test it out in the store (assuming the sales associates are OK with it!): bring everything you plan on keeping in your wallet, as well as the smallest bag in which you plan on carrying it, and try before you buy.
2. Consider What Currency You’ll Carry in It
If you usually carry coins and don’t want to use a change purse, make sure the wallet has a compartment for keeping coins so they don’t fall to the bottom of your bag – or worse, all over the floor whenever you take out your wallet!
Coin compartments are especially important if you travel outside of the US,, since many countries use coins more frequently than we do in the states – for example, the UK uses one-pound coins instead of notes, so you’re probably going to end up carrying around more coins than you’re used to!
3. Think About Storage for Cards
Make sure you pick a wallet with a ton of card slots; this is especially important if you carry around a ton of important cards!
Stuffing one slot with a bunch of cards will stretch it out and make it more likely that your cards will fall out. Plus, it’s simply a lot more convenient to know exactly where your cards are located, instead of having to dig through your wallet to find out in which section a certain card is hiding.
If quality and durability are important to you…
You may want to think about spending more money on one wallet, rather than buying multiple cheaper wallets. It’s really a pain to switch out cards and everything else you carry around every time you want to wear a new bag!
If you can afford to spend a little extra cash, a wallet is a great accessory to invest in. A well-made wallet will last you ages, and it’s something practical that you’ll use literally every day.
Want a nicer wallet, but convinced you can’t afford one? Don’t forget to check outlet malls! Stores like Coach, Kate Spade and Saks (“Off Fifth”) have many outlets across the US where you can find great deals. If you live in a city like NYC or LA with tons of sample sales going on, those are also great ways to find a quality wallet for cheap.
Not sure where to start looking?
Here’s a few cute wallet suggestions that’ll meet a variety of budgets and variables!
Long wallets
Top row: 1. Madewell, 2. Topshop, 3. Marc by Marc Jacobs
Bottom row: 4. Rebecca Minkoff, 5. Coach, 6. Kate Spade
Short Wallets
Top row: 1. Coach, 2. Kate Spade, 3. Folli Follie
Bottom row: 4. Rebecca Minkoff, 5. Topshop, 6. Comme des Garcons
What about you?
What’s the most important thing you look for when picking out a wallet? Do you use the same one all the time, or do you switch out depending on which bag you’re carrying? In your opinion, what’s the most useful feature a wallet can offer? Leave a comment and let us know!
