Wallet Size Dimensions


"Money is like a sixth sense - and you can't make use of the other five without it" - Somerset Maugham

This is a very apt quote by Maugham, reflecting how money is instrumental for us to lead good lives. You cannot ever deny the fact that money is indeed the key to a lot of material pleasures, as well as necessities. Without money, we can hardly use or rather put our skills and sense to good use. Now, when we are talking about money, the 'bourse' or the purse or the wallet, needs to be given equal importance, isn't it? In fact isn't it a popular conception that the bigger the purse or the wallet, the richer the person is? Although sometimes it may not be the case. Now talking about the size of wallets, which one do you prefer? A compact one or a big one which will carry all your cards, cash and stuff?

What are Wallet Size Dimensions and Its Varieties

The wallet sizes and their measurements are determined by the specific style of the wallet. There are several styles when it comes to wallets, from the classic 2 fold to an ID holder or a chain wallet. While some wallets are specially designed for carrying notes and cards, some wallets are better suited for keeping coins and heavy stuff. That again decides how compact or big the wallet is. In addition to this, the apparel too is another thing which has an impact on the size and dimensions of the wallet. Initially, there were only wallets suited to coats. Now wallet sizes are suited to the pockets of pants and jeans too, along with jackets and coats. Let's take a look at these common wallet sizes and their dimensions.

The Classic
If you look at wallets, most number of them would be 2-fold classic style wallets. Not just men, even women carry such wallets these days. In such wallets, the fold usually measures around 3.5 x 4 inches. When you open the wallet, the whole length runs around 8.5 inches and it also has half an inch of spine allowance. These wallets typically can expand till a thickness of around 2 centimeters. A pocket of around 4 inches x 4.5 inches can easily be able to hold such wallets. In such wallets, there is one more 'secret' section which has a zipper, of the same length. There is also a section for keeping photographs, and photo wallet size dimensions covering a fold are 4 x 3.5 inches. It can have a few more mini pockets on the opposite side.

Small is Beautiful
These wallets, which are called three-fold, have smaller dimensions. These are somewhere around 7 x 9 centimeters per fold. These are thinner too, than the two-fold ones, ranging roughly about a centimeter or even less. Big enough to carry few bills and business cards and a photograph, such wallets do not have zippers. A perfect choice, if you are looking for a wallet which will be a cozy fit in your pant and shirt pocket. Ladies, if you want a wallet you can carry in a clutch bag, go for this.

Double Decker?
What I am mentioning are the wallets which are commonly termed as two - side - fold. The dimensions of this kind of wallet are the same as the classic two-fold. The difference is that this kind of wallets are made and meant for a side fold. Rather than the top, a side fold is divided and folded at the longitudinal side. The openings for placing bills are at the spine instead of the counter longitudinal sides. The length of such wallets is around 18 centimeters. Bags and inner coat pockets are the best places to carry such wallets. There are mini pockets too, sans zippers or with zippers.

Long Fellow
Now, this one stands tall. Its dimensions are longer than those mentioned earlier. These stick out of the trouser or jeans back pockets. The idea for such measurements is that they can be easily taken or pulled out. Smaller wallets, if they fit a bit tightly, might be difficult to pull out. However, such wallets can be easily stolen or snatched.

These were the basic dimensions and styles of wallets. Using accessories can further modify the size of the wallets or make them easy for use. For instance, some smaller sized wallets have a golden or silver metal chain. The free end of the chain is attached to the belt or its loop, making it easier for them to be pulled out. These things might come in the picture while buying designer wallets.

ID holder, chain wallet, wrist wallet, jimi - a small wallet made of hard plastic, front pocket wallet or money clip (for carrying bills) are a few other wallet styles with various sizes. This is where I sign off!

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