Types of Wallets
One wallet is not like another. Since the traditional wallet became a common accessory in the 1950s styles have been continually evolving with dress styles, wallet uses, and design innovation. We've put together a guide to explain the common wallet types, their pros and cons, history, and uses.
Bi-fold Wallet
The Bi-fold wallet is the most common type of wallet today, constructed from a single panel that is folded in half once. This is the distinguishing feature of the wallet - the single fold creating the two panels - a bi-fold. A bi-fold wallet will typically have one or two compartments for bank notes which run full length of the wallet. When closed, the bank notes are folded in half, but due to the thickness of the leather there is no creasing of the notes. Credit cards are typically held horizontally in slots on the inside of the wallet, and there may be a compartments for coins. More options can be given by a number of 'pages' inside the wallet, although these add to the bulk.
Tri-fold Wallet
Tri-fold wallets are similar to bi-fold wallets, but instead of having the single fold with two sections, the wallet has two folds with three sections. Tri-fold wallets have smaller dimensions, but are often thicker due to the extra fold. Notes are folded three times, and credit cards are stored vertically. Tri-fold wallets must have a fastening to keep shut.
Money Clip
Money clips are unusual in Britain, and are much more common in America. They've taken off in America as notes are in lower denominations. In the USA one dollar bills are the most common form of paper money, which are today worth roughly 60p. The most common note in the UK is the £20 note - worth more than 33 times more than the American paper money! Money clips are a great way to carry large amounts of banknotes without the clutter of a whole wallet, and some designs may include ways to attach credit cards.
Breast Wallet
Breast wallets are also known as "secretary wallets" or "passage wallets".
The largest type of mans wallet, the breast wallet is a large tall wallet designed to fit in the breast pocket of a gentleman's suit. The extra size of this wallet leaves room for a cheque book, notepad, or full sized pen, but more usually these wallets are used to carry notes (unfolded) and credit cards. These wallets have more room for design elements, and have potential to be the dressiest of the wallet types listed here.
Coin Trays
Some wallets are designed to carry only coins, and can be carried alone or with a companion wallet of another type.
Chain Wallets
Bi-fold or tri-fold wallets may have a chain attached that can connect to the wearers belt loops. These are often worn by subcultures such as bikers, goths, and rockers.