I’m thrilled to introduce a new monthly feature today. This series fits perfectly with a major goal I have for Studio DIY next year: to share more stories alongside the projects and photos you already love. Expect profiles, interviews, and personal perspectives that illuminate the people behind the creative work.
To launch the series we’re starting “What’s In My Clutch!?” — a monthly interview with a different blogger, maker, entrepreneur, or creative. Yes, each guest will reveal what they carry in their clutch, but we’ll also explore the stories behind those items and discuss their overall style philosophies. Each interview will be unique, and every month we’ll pair the feature with a giveaway of that month’s Can’t Clutch This clutch.
For this kickoff, we flipped the script and had Samantha interview me. Plus there’s an extra-special giveaway: one lucky reader will win a three-month subscription to Can’t Clutch This. Let’s dive in.
What’s your style philosophy?
I love combining classic silhouettes with bold colors, playful patterns, and a few trend-driven pieces. I invest in staples—jeans and blazers that will last for years—but swap out accessories like shoes, bags, and jewelry more frequently. I have go-to outfits (jeans with a blazer and ankle boots, or cropped pants with flats and a graphic tee), so I’m definitely a creature of habit.
Has your style changed over the years?
In some ways, not much. I recently looked at an old yearbook photo and realized I’d worn the same basic combo then: a blazer, tee, and skinny jeans. That said, I’ve had phases—Jeff used to call me “biker Kelly” in college because I went dark-haired, embraced leather, and leaned edgy. I’ve always liked experimenting, though, even if others didn’t get it. In fifth grade I rocked a side ponytail despite teasing; in high school I wore giant furry boots and owned it. As Tim Gunn says, “Lighten up, it’s just fashion.” It’s fun to try bold things.
Do you remember your first purse?
I’ve been obsessed with bags for a long time, so it’s hard to name the very first. One vivid memory: searching Old San Juan for a Dooney & Bourke store and coming home with a bubblegum-pink purse covered in rainbow “DB” initials. I treasured that bag.
Five items you always keep in your purse or clutch — tell us about each one.
I carry ginger chews, lipstick (many shades), my phone with a PopSocket, a large combined keychain/wallet, and a stack of unused gift cards.
1. Ginger chews: I’ve dealt with chronic nausea since a major surgery in 2002, and ginger chews are a lifesaver. I recommend them to anyone dealing with motion sickness or pregnancy-related queasiness.
2. Lipstick: In 2015 I resolved to wear lipstick nearly every day. I don’t do heavy makeup, but a bright lip lifts my confidence more than I expected.
3. My phone and PopSocket: I use a large phone (7+), and a PopSocket makes it manageable. It gives me a secure grip and makes holding someone else’s phone feel strange when theirs doesn’t have one.
4. Combined wallet and keys: I lose things, so I keep my wallet and keys together. It’s bulky, but practical. That wallet dates back to a Make-A-Wish trip to Paris and London in eighth grade — I bought it at Louis Vuitton and can’t part with it thanks to the memories it holds.
5. Unused gift cards: I’m terrible about spending gift cards; I hoard them. I’ve collected dozens over the years and often forget about their balances.
Do you also carry hand sanitizer? Are you a germophobe?
Yes—I’m a bonafide germaphobe. My mom used to tuck small Bath & Body Works sanitizers into my stocking, and I’ve kept the habit ever since.
Favorite Bath & Body Works item back in the day?
I loved their roll-on glitter and always gravitated toward Cucumber Melon and Sweet Pea scents.
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve found in your purse?
Aside from the dozens of gift cards, I once carried a single birthday candle for months. It started when I brought one to my dad’s birthday just in case; when he had one already, I forgot the candle was in my purse. Later, at a friend’s celebration, someone joked about needing a candle—and I actually had one on me. After that I kept one around for emergencies.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
Now for the giveaway: we’re giving away one three-month subscription to Can’t Clutch This. The giveaway ends Monday at 9am PST and a winner will be announced shortly after. Use the Rafflecopter widget on the page to enter; the giveaway is open to readers worldwide.
I hope you enjoy the new series — I’m excited to share more stories with you. Reminder: the last day to order the taco clutch in time for Christmas is this Friday. We’ve heard from so many of you impressed by the quality for just $19.99, and I’m so glad you’re loving it. Thank you all for your enthusiasm and support!