Every style guru will insist that you carry only the bare essentials in your wallet because every man's wallet should be slim and sleek. Often, a money clip is suggested as a stylish alternative. Many guys who took that suggestion and ended up with a money clip found themselves fumbling with stray credit cards and IDs.

A popular hybrid is available for those who are trying to strike that fine balance between style and functionality. It's a wallet with a money clip, or in short, a money clip wallet.

A money clip wallet looks like a typical billfold wallet except that it's thinner. It's thinner because it doesn't have any bill compartment and it doesn't have any side pocket. Other than the money clip that runs through the center of the wallet, it usually has credit card slots on both sides of the wallet.

There are three things you should look out for when you're buying a money clip wallet.

1. The Money Clip

Not all money clips are made the same. Fiddle around with the money clip. Open and close the money clip a few times. It should snap open easily and more importantly the grip should be tight when it snaps back into position. It has a lot to do with the spring mechanism.

If this sounds like rocket science to you, bring along 15 to 20 notes with you when you're making your purchase. Try out the money clip and make sure it holds the notes in place. The notes should be secured tightly if it's a good money clip.

Also check to see if the money clip is fixed to the wallet or if it's detachable. Always go for one with a non-detachable money clip. It feels a lot more secure.

2. The Leather

With a metal clip as the spine of the wallet, a money clip wallet is understandably stiffer than a typical billfold wallet. That's why it's a good idea to choose one made of leather that's soft and supple.

3. The Size

A money clip wallet is meant to be slim and sleek so it's usually smaller than a regular wallet. Some are designed specially for U.S. dollars and bills such as the euro may be too big for your wallet. So make sure you get one that fits the currency you use.

Remember, you'll only look stylish if you carry the right money clip wallet. You wouldn't want to be fumbling with your notes because of a lousy money clip. You wouldn't want your notes to be sticking out because your money clip wallet is too small. So make your choice wisely.