Every man needs a wallet. Wallets are not only are an extension of one’s fashion sense, but also a necessary everyday carry item for toting around the things you need to get through the day. That being said, leather wallets are often overlooked when it comes to cultivating a wardrobe. Here’s everything you need to know about maintaining the one you have or finding a new wallet that will update your look.
Table of Contents
Common Mistakes
Before we get into wallet types and materials, let’s first talk wallet care. One of the first and biggest mistakes you can make that will really shorten your wallet’s lifespan is stuffing it to the brim. Hey, good for you if you’ve got paper like Al Pacino from Scarface, but even he could benefit from trimming things down. Cash is great to have in your slim leather wallet, but just be sure to keep it light. Only carry with you what you actually need. You can always run to the bank and get more cash so you don’t have a thick stack of folded bills marring the look of your stylish wallet. Additionally, leave coins at home, (but keep quarters in your car for parking) as they will add unnecessary weight to your wallet. Another thing you should leave out of the inner pockets of your wallet are condoms. They break down after extended periods in your wallet, and can cause a ring indentation to form, which is something you definitely don’t want in a minimalist front pocket wallet. Not good.
So what should be in a thin wallet? We say, keep it simple. A debit card, credit card, ID card and maybe one or two more cards of importance are all you should have. Everything else can be kept at home or in the bank. Even if you have a ton of cards, consider using a card holder or a card case to keep them organized so that you can have the best minimalist wallet. You don’t necessarily need to carry around every business card that you’ve ever received. Not only does this keep your bulky wallet from becoming an unsightly bulge in your back pocket, but having the thinnest possible wallet is also a safe practice in case it ever gets misplaced or stolen.
Types of Wallets
if you’re in the market for a new wallet, there are a few more things to consider. Choosing the type of wallet is as important for style as it is for function. Here are the different types and some considerations to take.
Billfolds
Billfold wallets come in two basic types: bifold wallets and trifold wallets. These are the classic wallets you’d associate with a professional. Often made of genuine leather, they’re as attractive as they are functional. The full-grain leather of a slim bifold wallet is ideal for functionality and easy access to your credit card slots. These are the most likely wallets to feature an ID window despite their relatively slim design, as well as the standard card pockets and cash pocket. A leather bifold wallet is a timeless choice and certainly a top pick for any gentleman.
Save: Cali Passecase, Perry Ellis $18 | Spend: Coach Slim Billfold, Coach $125
Super Slim Wallets
Only made to hold a few cards, super slim wallets, also known as card wallets, card sleeves, and slimfold wallets, are a great way to keep the size of your wallet minimized. They also have the added benefit of making almost no impression in your pocket, so they won’t ruin the look of your tailored pants, even if you use it as a front pocket wallet. Typically made with cowhide leather, these men’s slim wallets still maintain their mature look, while cutting down on bulk. These leather card holders also tend to keep their shape better, making them a good alternative to the classic billfolds.
Save: MINI POLYCARBONATE, HUMN $19.95 | Spend: Hampshire Slim Sleeve, Rag and Bone $125
Sport Wallets
Sport wallets are good for exactly what you think they’d be good for. They are a bit sturdier and keep contents secured while on a run or working out at the gym. Often times, they are water-resistant and made of synthetic materials so they won’t crack from heat or use. While sports wallets are necessary for what they’re made for, get one in addition to–not in replacement of–your everyday wallet.
Save: Base Camp Wallet, North Face $25 | Spend: Y-S Sports Wallet, VRNTS $155
Money Clips
Money clip wallets are simplicity incarnate. The minimalist design is an easy and effective way to carry a few cards or bills for quick access, and they fit nicely in a suit jacket’s breast pocket. Also, money clips can be made from many types of materials, from classic leather to stainless steel. They can also come in cool designs, giving you another way to up your flair.
Save: Ingram Money Clip, Fossil $25 | Spend: Money Clip, Tumi $75
Travel Wallets
When traveling abroad, naturally you’re going to being carrying more stuff. Instead of filling your best slim wallet to the gills, opt for a travel wallet. Made to hold passports and other forms of identification, travel wallets are crucial for long stays abroad and are quite far from being a minimalist wallet. They can be made with any material to fit your needs. Leather looks work great for business trips while waterproof materials keep everything safe when you’re out adventuring and need the added durability. This being said, they’re not for daily use and should never be relegated as such.
Save: Leather RFID Passport Case, Fossil $55 | Spend: Burnished Leather Narrow Wallet, Polo Ralph Lauren $95
Phone Case Wallets
For the minimalists out there, phone case wallets are ideal. With the need to have more and more stuff in your pockets, phone case wallets reduce the clutter. While not as professional as a billfold wallet, these minimalist leather wallets do get the job done.
Save: Solo, Azalea $40 | Splurge: Plus Wallet, J.W Hulme $145
Something else that you may want to consider when it comes to a wallet is whether you’re interested in RFID blocking technology. Wallets that feature RFID protection have a layer of carbon fiber or metal in order to block RFID signals so that no one can steal your information through your cards.
High-quality wallets, like watches, are an underrated wardrobe and style staple. There are tons of different versions out there, from credit card holders to minimalist slim wallets. Take the time to look at different colors and materials, and consider whether you want something handcrafted or mass made, and whether an RFID-blocking wallet may be right for you. Shop around, and when you find that perfect wallet, take the time to take care of it so it’ll last you for the long haul.
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