Wallet, Money Clip, or Business Card Holder: Which is Right for You?

Men tend to be about function first and style second. This is why the wallet, money clip, and business card holder are the main accessories a man carries with him. Which of these currency carriers is best for you?

The Wallet

The wallet or billfold is a foldable accessory that has compartments to place paper currency, credit cards, business cards, identification cards, and photographs. Wallets come in many styles, including newer devices that resemble pouches or coin purses. The billfold is typically made from fabric or an animal skin; some fashion designers add little extras like chains to them making them seem more purse-like. The compact size of the wallet makes it easy for a man to carry in his back pant pocket, shirt patch pocket, or jacket pocket. For the man who cares about style, a leather, croc skin, snakeskin, or suede wallet will appeal to his fashion senses.

When to use a wallet: Wallets are best suited for when you need one device that can hold paper currency, multiple credit cards, and identification cards, along with other small or foldable documents such as receipts.

The Money Clip

Money clips are considered more of a jewelry item since they are primarily made from metal. This currency holder is used for holding money and maybe one or two plastic cards, such as a credit card and driver's license. Money clips do not have much "give" to them, making it hard to place as many items in it as one can with a wallet.

Since the standard money clip is considered a jewelry item, it is often made with decorative designs, etchings, and from precious metals like gold and platinum. You may even find some with jewels set in them. Men who have high-profile careers earning six figures a year or more will opt for the money clip, as it does have a luxury status associated with it.

When to use a money clip: Money clips are best used for when you need to carry a limited amount of cash or larger bills like $50 and $100 bills. It is best not to carry too many credit cards in a money clip, as they may not fit and could become scratched, making them unreadable at point-of-sale.

The Business Card Holder

Business card holders, also called business card cases, were designed to hold the standard 3.5-inch by 2-inch size business card or slightly larger. Some men also carry paper currency, identification, and credit cards in business card holders. Because of their compact size, these devices can only hold a limited amount of items compared to amount of items the standard wallet can hold.

Business card cases can be made from fabric, animal skin, or metal. Most fabric and animal skin holders look like mini wallets, with some having a small compartment to hold your driver's license. Metal cases are typically adorned with decorative etchings and engravings and come in luxury versions made with mother of pearl lids or made from silver, gold, or platinum. Some holders are so thin that they look like match covers. If you are trying to make a good impression with your business cards, you may want a holder that is attractive, like a silver, gold, or even platinum case that has decorative etchings or is engraved.

When to use a business card holder: Business card holders are best for when you need to carry at least 25 business cards, maybe a few bills, a credit card, and your driver's license. Do not try to over-stuff your holder, otherwise you will run the risk of marring your business cards and the case.