Clutch: Larchmont’s Chic Women’s Accessory Store Is a Continuing Hit

Danielle Zucker—who’s lived in Larchmont eight years—epitomizes the Clutch customer. “I’ve been shopping at Judy’s other store, Pink on Palmer, since it opened," she says, "and I love coming in here and checking out all the new merchandise.” 

Zucker is with her mother. Both could be dressed for shopping in a stylish neighborhood in Manhattan, which is where her mother, Alida Rubin, lives.  “This store could easily be found in the city,” says Rubin. “We came here to shop for presents because tomorrow is Danielle’s birthday."

Since it opened last November, Clutch has continued to gain speed as that kind of destination, the go-to for a special gift, or for an accessory or top that will update a look—or to simply browse through a trove of fashionable goods and find out what’s hot.

While some prices are in the medium to high range, an equal amount are moderate. “People often come in for the special chick gift that’s very affordable,” says Graham. “And we have lots of inexpensive gift choices for Sweet Sixteen and turning 21 presents, too, not just for moms.”

The upbeat mood is reminiscent of the store next door—eight-year-old , specializing in deluxe candles, body care products and cosmetics—which makes sense since both are co-owned by Judy Graham and daughter Abbie Durkin.

Underscoring Clutch’s up-to-the-minute fashion appeal is a store concept that’s one of the most beautiful in the area. “Abbie did all the design work,” says Graham of the store’s vibrant purple (not pink) walls, and the modern furnishings including Philippe Starck’s transparent Louis Ghost Chair, plexiglass coffee table, and mid-century inspired sofa, creating a fresh, airy, and polished look.

Clean-lined white shelves climb the 13-foot ceilings, full of bags, scarves, shoes, stylish ballet slippers, rain boots,  belts, eyeglasses, watches, hair accessories, wallets, sweaters, leggings, gloves, and cosmetic bags.

In a way, Graham opened the store to meet her own shopping needs. “After Plaza Too closed, we realized there was no place to buy tights, shoes, or bags—the kind of basics you don’t want to have to go to the mall to buy, especially when it’s spur of the moment. We love Larchmont, and we love our customers, so when this space became available, we jumped on it.”

Annie Mordasky, from Mamaroneck, was standing at one of the walls of accessories. “Gloves, I need gloves!’ she said, trying on a red pair. “I always find what I’m looking for here. And I came here purposefully  because I want to shop locally and be supportive of our businesses.”

“We’re on the lookout for unique and interesting designers,” says Graham, which shows in the line of Henri Lou suede, bright-color handbags, and, on the center table, rows of exquisite Parisian totes by Vanessa Bruno.

A man was standing with his arms outstretched,  a luxurious tote in each hand, weighing his options. “It’s my wife’s birthday today,” he explained, “and she sent me here because she said I couldn’t go wrong. So I’m going to get one of these. Which one do you like?” When the purplish tote in his left hand was indicated, he went with the ice blue one in his right hand.

Clutch’s big seller and inside secret: Chilly Jilly—a wrap that fits comes in a bag that’s the size of a deck of cards. “They’re perfect for keeping in your bag for when you’re chilled at the movies or on a plane. The larger one doubles as a swimsuit wrap,” says Graham. ($36; the larger size is $45.)

A mother and teenage daughter entered the store, carrying Pink on Palmer bags. “It’s so fun in here!” exclaimed the teen, making a beeline to the alphabet necklaces. Her mother calmly replied, “It’s pretty. And it always has something I need when I’m in a hurry.”

Clutch Handbags and Accessories, 1905 Palmer Ave., Larchmont; (914) 315-1434; Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; clutchlarchmont@gmail.com.

Katherine Ann Samon is a Patch reporter and columnist and author of four books including Ranch House Style and Dates From Hell. Contact her at kathsam@aol.com, or visit www.katherineannsamon.com.