The new mis-matchy rules
Coordinate – but don’t match – shoes and bags to give workwear neutrals a lift
QI’d like to buy a new handbag for work, but am not sure what to go for. Would black be the most versatile, as it will match everything?
AAccessories are key to looking well put together, and they can make or break a crucial work outfit.
I’m constantly amazed by senior executives who make an effort to wear well tailored clothes but don’t give a second thought to tired handbags and scuffed shoes, especially when there are so many to choose from across high street and designer shops.
The sales bring more expensive
(and therefore better quality) pieces within budget, so take full advantage of them while you can. I try hard not to match my shoes to my bag, though it’s tricky when that’s been ingrained into you from birth (thank you, mother). Generally, I stick to the rule that if your outfit is busy with print or lots of colour then accessories should match, or at least complement each other tonally. But since workwear means a lot of neutrals, black and navy, you can lift an outfit with mismatched accessories. I’m not implying you become Imelda Marcos, but a few variations on the classic black can be helpful.
I love any excuse to wear leopard print but less is definitely more, so pair printed shoes (the most appropriate option for an office) with a tan leather or suede bag. Boden’s elegant heels would go nicely with Russell and Bromley’s tote. Look for bags and shoes that have two or more colours or a bit of texture, as they’ll go with more. These houndstooth pumps from Hobbs would look great with the lovely Compton tote from Smythson.
If you do want to stick to black then at least make it more interesting. Massimo Dutti’s floral print heels are fun but still chic, and tie nicely with the pretty scalloped detail of this Cambridge Satchel Company bag.
Adding belts to the equation makes it more complicated. I live in waist belts and almost always match them to my shoes. In that case, try to tonally match the bag to your outfit instead. It may sound complicated, but once you’ve got a few good pieces then working out how to mix and match them will be simple.