Purses, clutches, and totes galore. Not only do they contain all the essentials one needs for the day, but handbags can truly make or break an outfit. How then, do you pair your handbag with your outfit? Although experimenting with different colors, textures, and combinations can be fun, there are several foolproof ways to cultivate your sense of style. Here are some tips and tricks you can consider adding to your fashion arsenal, no matter the season.
What’s The Occasion?
Believe it or not, handbags are a major fashion statement, with consumers largely driven by social media influence. Statistics have purported that the women’s handbags industry is expected to generate revenue of US$62,036m in 2022, with an annual growth of 5.35%.
You’ve received a handbag from a luxury brand like Bottega Veneta — what now? How do you pair it with your outfit on a dinner date or a night out with the girls? There are several ways to avoid badly-coordinated looks, which can be a huge no-no, especially if you want to leave a lasting impression.
First and foremost, the occasion should be the most important consideration. Where are you going? What will you be doing? Dress for the occasion; it dictates your outfits down to the last detail. Matching your handbag with your outfits without coming off as tacky or old-fashioned (think a top, a pair of heels, and a bag in the same shade of red) may take practice, but it can certainly be done.
Be it a wedding, business seminar, or fitness class, you need a different handbag that suits the occasion. Size is one factor you can easily turn to. On one hand, smaller bags like a crossbody or a wristlet are versatile, particularly fitting on days when you do not need much aside from your wallet and phone. Mini bags can add value to a sophisticated look for special occasions, no matter how formal.
On the other hand, large bags create a look that’s a little more laid-back and easygoing. They are handy and functional, enabling you to run errands or attend lectures without breaking a sweat. From a laptop to gym clothes, there’s nothing you cannot stuff into a large tote bag or backpack.
However, there is no specific rule of thumb. Here are several outfit-and-bag pairings that work according to the occasion. If you’re at the beach, pair a breezy summer dress and sandals with a clean over-the-shoulder bag. If you’re strutting your stuff in a powerful tailored pantsuit in the office, stray away from boring briefcases and go with a structured satchel bag. If you’re painting the town red on a formal night out, an embellished clutch or wristlet will pair fabulously with heels and a cocktail dress. Struggling to find something stylish in the wintertime? A small suede crossbody will balance out bulky jackets and layers, adding an extra dimension to your look.
Just remember that elegant handbags do not go well with ultra-casual outfits like athleisure and baggy graphic tees, and vice versa. Finding the right balance is key.
Go Get That Bag
Speaking of balance, does that sound like too many handbags for you? Well, in 2013, the typical woman in the US owned an average of 11 handbags, and we can expect that number to have risen ever since. However, you don’t have to own a hundred different handbags; having a few signature pieces that can go well with a wide range of outfits is more important.
When it comes to colors, be sure to choose colors with contrasting (yet complementary) or slightly different hues. For example, don’t carry a bag in the exact same shade of fire-engine red as your dress. But if you do want to rock a monochrome look, go for a bag in a darker or lighter shade. Strive to be matching, not clashing.
Your clothes should ideally be of a different material as your bag. Prints and patterns should also be mixed up, especially if you are looking to make a statement. Just be sure to strike a balance without going over the top. Textures are lovely, but an overload of leopard prints can easily become an eyesore. Also, pay attention to the hardware, like metallic details. Gold hardware should ideally be paired with gold accessories, silver with silver, and so on.
Lastly, carrying the right bag for your body shape can do wonders. Some bags will help you accentuate or take the attention away from your curves, depending on personal preference. Those with a petite figure should stay away from overly large bags that can swallow you up, while ladies with curves can opt for a slim, elongated bag if you prefer a slimmer silhouette.
In the words of French fashion designer Sonia Rykiel, “with only one bag, you can change your outfit completely”. With all these tips in mind, go forth and make the magic happen.