A wallet is one of the most essential women’s accessories out there, but with countless styles and features on offer, it can be difficult to know which ones will work best for you. Luckily, there are wallets for every taste, budget, and purpose—from luxe leather options that ooze luxury to recycled cotton and canvas choices that promote sustainability. The key to picking out the perfect wallet is understanding broad trends and subtle nuances so you can align it with your needs and aesthetic preferences.
First, you’ll want to consider how you’ll be using the wallet to decide on its size. For instance, if you tend to carry small bags with limited space, ID wallets essential women’s wallets and bifold women’s wallets are ideal, as they’re slim and compact enough to fit inside. On the other hand, if you usually bring tote bags and larger-sized carry bags, trifold women’s wallets are a good choice, as they feature more compartments and slots for storing things like loyalty cards, receipts, and coins.
Another important factor to keep in mind is the wallet’s construction materials. While there are plenty of wallets made from fabric, leather is a popular choice for its durability and the way it develops a natural patina with time. Other common material choices include metal, rubber, and even faux leather. Finally, if you’re looking for a wallet with an added layer of security, consider RFID-blocking. These types of women’s wallets are crafted with elements that inhibit radio-frequency identification (RFID) scanners used by thieves to steal personal information.
As with any type of accessory, the price of a wallet varies considerably from one to the next. Generally speaking, however, the more expensive a wallet is, the better its materials and craftsmanship are likely to be. For example, a wallet made from genuine animal leather will most likely be much more expensive than one made from synthetic or fabric. In addition, wallets from established brands tend to be pricier than lesser-known alternatives.
Lastly, the amount of space the wallet has will also play a role in its overall value. The most spacious options—like this calfskin leather bifold from Madewell—are able to comfortably hold all your most-used credit cards and cash, plus some extra stubs and loose change. On the other hand, if you’re after something with a sleeker silhouette that takes up less room in your purse or pocket, go for a minimalist wallet such as this quilted bifold option from Bevza.
For more tips on finding the perfect women’s wallet, we tapped a group of style and fashion experts to weigh in. They included personal stylist Heather Newberger, co-founder of the blog The Faux Real, Nordstrom women’s fashion director Marissa Galante Frank, and personal stylist Desiree Miranda. We also consulted our Forbes Vetted team, which includes fashion editors and senior writers who have written extensively about women’s wallets. As such, this comprehensive guide to the best wallets for women will help you find the best match for your specific needs and tastes.