Billfolds, clips or 'murses:' Options abound for men wanting to carry their money, cards

Lillie-Beth Brinkman, Callie Athey and Helen Ford Wallace
·2 min read

QUESTION: Should I carry a billfold or a money clip? I am having trouble figuring that out since I have to make room for my phone. Are there purses for men?

CALLIE’S ANSWER: You carry whatever feels comfortable to you. There is a purse for men. They call it a "murse."

LILLIE-BETH’S ANSWER: I know several men that carried their money and credit cards in a binder clip, like the cheap black and metal kind you find at an office and that comes in a box from Staples or Office Depot. They loved it because the binder clips held things together much more tightly than a money clip did and was less bulky than a wallet.

When it eventually broke (not very often), they could just pull another one out of the box. It made sense to me, so if that idea resonates with you, then go for it. Other options could be a messenger bag or a sling crossbody bag if you’d rather carry something comparable to a women’s purse. In any case, carry what is comfortable for you.

HELEN’S ANSWER: If you are carrying a wallet, you can insert all cards and money in a wallet. They come in various styles, sizes and weights. If you want to add your phone, there are longer wallets, some with removable straps to wear around your neck or waist. There are all colors and designs of backpacks, totes, clutches, cases for men. They can hold your phone, a wallet, and anything else you might want to add. A money clip is also still used by men. They don’t take up a lot of room in a pocket and the another pocket can hold the phone.

GUEST’S ANSWER: Linda Miller, fashion expert and author of “Fashion Matters” blog: If you want everything — charge cards, identifications, business cards, folding money, etc. — in one place, opt for a slim style billfold. Slip the billfold in one pocket and your phone in another. Or consider a slim style billfold with an integrated money clip. These are designed to lessen the bulge. There are also cross body and messenger bags, as well as clutch purse wallets and wrist bags designed for men. Check out your favorite men's store or go online. If you decide on some type of bag, the most difficult part may be remembering to grab it when you leave the house or the restaurant or get out of your car.

Since 2009, Callie, Lillie-Beth and Helen have written this generational etiquette column. They also include guest responses from a wide range of ages each week. So many years later, Callie is 20-plus; Lillie-Beth is 40-plus and Helen is 60-plus. To ask an etiquette question, email helen.wallace@cox.net.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Men don't have to stick to wallets when it comes to carrying money