Choosing the Right Wallet to Suit your Lifestyle



Posted: Friday, May 08, 2009

by
Herbert Jones

A walletis a fashion accessory that we grow attached to, since we take it everywhere for many years. In addition to looking great, a wallet must be functional. It needs to fit our money, credit cards, travel cards, maybe some photos as well as fitting neatly into our pockets. I was surprised to find out that there is a wide selection of different styles of wallets of different shapes and sizes that have different pockets and sleeves. The right choice of wallet depends on your lifestyle (such as mode of dress) as well as personal preference. In this article I will analyse the different styles of wallets which includes the billfold, slimfold, coin wallet and travel wallet, and who might benefit.

The billfold is the classic wallet that most people are familiar with. The wallet comprises a folding note compartment, with credit card sleeves either side. It can fit into most pockets, and features about 8 credit card slots which most people find more than enough. The important question is whether you want an integrated coin pocket with your billfold. Some men find that a coin pocket is a very convenient way of keeping all your change safely with your notes. On the other hand, I find that storing coins within your wallet can make the wallet very bulky, which ruins the clean and crisp structure of the wallet. In addition, I don't like fussing about with my wallet when I am trying to pay for something in a shop. I sometimes have to tip out all my coins into my hand to find the right change, which can be quite time consuming. Also, I think that it resembles a purse. I much prefer to have a standard billfold, and carry some loose change in my pocket.

For some people the billfold wallet is too large, particularly if you wear tight fitting clothes or a suit. A large or heavy wallet will look very noticeable in a suit trouser or jacket pocket, as it will weigh down the loose fabric (loser than say jeans), which will ruin a sleek formal look. The answer is a slimfold wallet, which is slightly smaller and thinner than the billfold. It will slide unnoticed into a pocket, and can still carry notes as well as several credit cards. The key with a slimfold wallet is not to stuff it with too many credit cards otherwise it will bulk up. The disadvantage of a slimfold is that it will never come with a coin pocket, and can't take as many credit cards.

With the introduction of the oyster travel card (for the underground), most people need to carry their travel pass with them. All wallets can slot a travelcard into one of the credit card slots. The problem is that you need to remove your travelcard from the wallet and swipe it across the reader, then put it back. Some wallets have an integrated flap made from clear plastic, which you slide your travelcard into, and then you can swipe it directly over the card reader without removing anything. Some travel pass wallets have a removable pass holder in matching leather.

The trifold wallet, as its name suggests, folds over three times for a vertical profile, making it more compact. It has a casual and sporty look, and has the benefit of fitting into a small pocket (ideal for travelling). The money clip has become a bit outdated, although it does offer a sophisticated look that harks back to times of traditional elegance. Best used with a suit, the money clip is also associated with an affluent man. There are various wallets to choose from, so make sure you choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.

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