DEAR Mattie:
Should my accessories match this season?
Desperate in Deep Cove
Dear Deep Cove:
Your handbag and your shoes do not have to match. But, if you like the look, go for it, because matching your accessories is still a stylish thing to do.
Either your handbag or your shoes should match your outfit. The look of an ensemble is in fashion, even at the casual level. Not everything should match as it may start to look monotonous. Either your shoes or handbag should be a statement piece.
A statement piece is an item from your outfit that stands out on its own, with style and personality. This season's statement pieces are modern with texture, lines and colour. Even though this may sound busy, it is a minimalist look.
Shoes and handbags are sleek and controlled.
Every fall, boots are extremely popular. If you haven't bought a pair in previous years, then you may crack this season. There is a boot for everyone. Leather and suede are the most popular. There is also affordable faux leather and suede. Boots are not as bold in colour as handbags. Black, all shades of brown and even cognac to burgundy are trendy.
Look for boots that allow you to feel awesome. The retro stiletto-heel tall boot is always in fashion. Consider it an investment piece. Booties with a wedge heel and fringes or tassels look hip. Granny boots that lace up to the lower calf and have a chunky heel may be the coolest boot this season. The slouchy suede boot is still in fashion.
If you are looking for some colour in your outfit, your handbag may be your best bet. Handbags in jewel tones are extremely popular. Because these colours are trendy you may want to explore the new mini bags, which hold a key, cellphone and credit card.
The texture of the handbag is important. It should be smooth and modern or embossed and trendy. Embossed is the look and feel of reptile skin, a faux impression of python or crocodile. This embossed texture looks great in red, green and electric blue.
Handbags have a defined shape. They are not slouchy or oversized. The bag may have either a thin shoulder or wrist strap. Regardless of how long the strap is, it is wrapped around the wrist, like a bracelet.
The most fashionable shoes to look out for are the Mary Jane and the loafer. Mary Janes should have a chunky or wedge heel with a funky strap and buckle. Loafers should have clean lines or a wing tip design with tassels and a chunky heel. This look is called "frumpy-fabulous" as these shoes are traditional and can look plain. This season, however, they have trendy features.
Statement pieces can match your mood. They can be whimsical and clever, which creates an attitude about how you like to look. After all, fashion is about attitude.
Adieu, Mattie
Mattie à la Mode is a monthly fashion advice column. Mattie is a freelance writer and fashion expert. Email: mattiealamode@gmail. com.
