Dear Mattie:
Should my shoes and handbag match this season?
- Styling in Edgemont
Dear Styling:
Only if you want them to. There is a variety of detailing and you can choose which styles you want to match. You can match the detailing, colour or texture. You can also choose not to match them. It really depends on the look that you are going for.
Many shoes, boots and handbags have so much detailing that if you tried to match them it might end up as overkill. There is a streamlined look this season that features shoes, boots and handbags with a structured shape. This trend is easier to match. Black is always a good investment. But, if you want more of a fashion statement, then try navy, aubergine, dark green cranberry, or any dark bold colour that you desire.
Shoes, boots and handbags definitely make a statement. You can choose a streamlined look or the new "accessorize your accessory" trend. Details on accessories include lots of hardware which can range from subtle to bling. If you choose a subtle approach to your accessories then you can match the detailing and nothing else. That is a smart look.
The embellished handbag is the best place to start as it can incorporate all of the trendy detailing or none at all. As well, you can get a great bag without paying designer prices. Your handbag can pull together your outfit. Almost every size and shape of handbag is in fashion, from a clutch to the new Jackie bag. What's trendy about the handbag is the structure, which can be either architectural or hobo. The detailing is where you can make a huge fashion statement.
Detailing includes hardware and texture. Hardware means zippers, buckles and chains. Texture encompasses leather, suede, crocodile and any other fabric with a printed, embossed or quilted finish. Fringe is also quite trendy. Handbags can have both texture blocking and hardware. Texture blocking means there is more than one texture on the handbag. Handbags can have many of the hardware details, but keep in mind, the colour of the hardware must match. Gold is making a comeback.
Shoes also have detailing, but it's not as heavy. Loafers have been updated with hardware. Lace-ups and tassels are still in fashion. What really stands out is the shoe or bootie that reaches the ankle. This particular shoe is the trendiest and can carry hardware. The heel of the shoe varies from a utility heavy sole to a chunky stacked heel. The shoe is a great opportunity to make a statement.
Boots have a modern look. The new boot reaches the mid-to lower calf. There can be as much detailing or texture blocking as you like. This boot can also have a streamlined look with one trendy colour and the side zipper being its only embellishment. This boot looks great with flared skirts.
The motorcycle boot has also made a comeback with the trendy detailing. This boot is not rugged; it is a clean urban trend. Somewhere in the middle is the Chelsea boot, which is the new everyday boot. Heels on today's boots are easy to walk on, low to an inch high, and somewhat thick.
This season, there is a contemporary look with a fabulous punch.
Adieu
Mattie
Mattie is a freelance writer and fashion expert. Reach her on her Facebook page or follow her on Pinterest at Mattie a la Mode.
