Old Clutch: Technology Cases with Southern Soul

When Sharon Gilbert’s college-age daughter lamented the fact that there were no “cool, one of a kind” laptop cases, she and her sister-in-law, Leigh Ann Higdon, had an idea of just how to fill that void. The two have always loved vintage pieces and felt that this particular accessories market was untapped. When their first laptop case was a hit among the college kids, they realized there was a demand to go further with other related designs. From quirky to timeless, each Old Clutch item is handcrafted with an embellishment–a timeless treasure—sewn onto hand cut leather, which creates a truly distinctive wearable work of art.

Sister-in-laws

Sharon has a background in marketing and design and sewing, while Leigh Ann has a keen eye for fashion and design. Their product line includes 13-inch laptop/document cases, iPad cases, midsize clutches, crossbody clutches and a new cricket clutch. With designs such as the Eutaw Petit Field Bag, the Silver City Laptop Case or the Niota Cricket Clutch, each product is named after the small towns that inspire our stories and serve as a reminder of our unique Southern culture.

Each piece is unique.

The leather is hand cut and sewn in the family barn.

Both of their daughters love vintage one of a kind accessories and Sharon and Leigh Ann love leather. So, they had a pattern maker come up with laptop and iPad patterns and then took it a step further to add cool clutches and crossbody bags to use at football games or just a night out.

Turquoise is a favorite.

With a love of vintage turquoise, old belt buckles, and even arrowheads and relics…the possibilities are endless. Each season Sharon and Leigh Ann introduce a new leather to keep things fresh.  They source all the leather, cut and sew it themselves in the family barn that separates their houses.

Unique treasures and trinkets adorn each bag.

With sources established across the country and hitting flea markets whenever they travel, Sharon and Leigh Ann have an endless supply of time-worn trinkets to adorn their leather creations. And if someone has a sentimental piece that they’d like to breathe new life into, they will be happy to create a custom piece.

To learn more, visit their website www.oldclutch.com. Old Clutch bags can be found at the following local retailers and are also available for wholesale: Chickadee, Bestsy Prince, Helena Mercantile, Mulberry Heights and Wrapsody.