Okay so I really needed a new everyday clutch, right? Like one that actually fits my stuff without being huge. Madewell has so many sizes it’s confusing AF. Started digging around online but couldn’t find clear comparisons. So I said screw it, let’s figure this out myself.
The Measuring Tape Phase
First thing? Grabbed my dusty tape measure and went to Madewell’s physical store. Realized their clutch sizes are super inconsistent across styles. Measured like ten different ones with my bare hands – width, height, depth. My phone kept sliding off the display table while I scribbled notes. The mini Sydney Clutch was cute but held nothing except lipstick. Meanwhile the regular Transport Clutch swallowed my Kindle whole.
Testing With My Own Junk
Next day I hauled all my daily crap back to the store: keys, giant phone, wallet, hand sanitizer, sunglasses. Stuff flew everywhere when I dumped my bag at checkout. Tried loading each clutch like Tetris:
- Tiny clutches – phone + keys = nope
- Medium – phone sideways + slim wallet = kinda
- Large – sunglasses case + wallet + phone = perfect fit
Realized depth matters most – shallow ones spill stuff when you snap them shut. Felt like an idiot squishing leather for 20 minutes.
The Winner For Me
Ended up getting the large Transport Clutch in saddle brown. Holds all my essentials plus a snack bar (priorities). Medium was okay for evenings but crushed my phone case. For quick errands? Mini works if I’m traveling light. But honestly just measure your biggest item before buying anything. Saved me from returning three sizes like last time.
