A wallet is an essential everyday item that allows you to keep your important cards and documents with you throughout the day. However, just as important as wallet functionality is, it’s also key to consider your wallet’s style. Your wallet is a necessity, but it’s also a fashionable accessory. Let’s put it this way: if you had to wear just one necklace or tie for the next few years, you’d want it to be a good one, right? The same goes for wallets. A good wallet will match your style, meet your needs, and last a long time. But how do you find the right balance of fashion and function when it comes to picking out a new wallet? We’ve got your back with a set of tips and tricks for picking the most stylish and effective wallet for you. 

One of the most important things to consider when investing in a new wallet is the amount of space it has to hold cards and cash. If you’re someone who likes to have cash on hand in addition to your debit/credit cards and ID, you’ll probably want to get a wallet that has a way to store it. However, traditional cash pockets in wallets can be bulky, and make your wallet unwieldy. In order to avoid this, opt for a bifold wallet with a money clip in the center or a leather cash strap to hold all the physical money you need to have on hand. 

Alternatively, if you prefer to only carry a few cards with you, you might opt for a card holder wallet, which contains space for just your essential cards. Some card holder wallets come with a handy pull tab feature, which allows you to pull on a fabric tab that triggers your cards to fan out of the wallet, so you don’t have to struggle to find the exact card you're looking for. Some card holder wallets also contain a cash strap as well, so you can find a happy middle ground for all your card and cash carrying needs. 

RFID, or Radio Frequency Identification is a form of technology that allows for the wireless transfer of information. This technology has been embedded into many modern credit cards and IDs, which make them easy to scan for payment and identification purposes. However, the information on RFID cards can unfortunately be easily stolen by hackers via a process called “skimming.” To do this, a hacker utilizes an RFID receiver to pull data from any of the RFID technology in its radius. Basically, your cards can be virtually pickpocketed without you even knowing it! In order to prevent the possibility of RFID information theft, you’ll want to invest in a wallet with RFID protection built into it. Most RFID wallets utilize a layer of carbon or metal material that blocks the electromagnetic field around your cards, making them undetectable on a RFID receiver’s radar. With a RFID wallet, you can feel safe knowing that your cards are protected wherever you go. 

You want a wallet that’s going to last you a long time, so it’s important to choose one made with a sturdy, yet stylish material. One of the best options for wallet material out there is real leather. Leather is a durable material that won’t wear down easily. Plus, leather comes in a variety of color washes, so you can find a leather wallet that perfectly suits your style. For instance, if you’re a fan of something simple, you could go for a traditional tan or black leather wallet. However, if you want a wallet that stands out a bit more, you could opt for one with an exciting colored leather wash, such as a bright pink or deep forest green. 

On top of choosing a wallet that can fit all that you need to carry, you’ll also want to get one that suits your style. If you’re someone who prefers a minimalist approach to accessorizing, you might want to get a card holder wallet that’s small, yet efficient. Alternatively, you can consider mens leather wallets for a more substantial and durable option. Or, if you want something a bit more substantial, you could get a bifold wallet that boasts more room and a bit more leather detailing. Additionally, you could choose to get a wallet that includes a detachable wrist strap to allow you ease and versatility of carrying it. If you want to leave your normal wallet at home and just take a card or two with you for an event, you could also get a magnetic card holder wallet to stick on the back of your phone.

When searching for a new wallet, you want to buy one that’s the ideal combination of function and fashion. Consider the amount of things you need to carry, what kind of leather you’d like, as well as how well it fits with your current fashion taste. With so many options to choose from, you’re bound to find a wallet style (heck, maybe even two!), that’s perfect for you.