Style divas worth their fame such as Angelina Jolie, Sofia Vergara, Rihanna, and Miranda Kerr are always big news every time they are seen in public, not only for their outfits but also for the handbags they have selected to carry with them. No wonder glossies and style blogs dedicate so much space to the A-lists’ stylistic choices, especially their outfit-handbag pairings!
Although a lot has been said and written the last few years about whether we should match our bags with our shoes, there is nothing stopping us from letting bags and clothes work together to create that oh-so-special look. No matter what some people say, the finishing touch to up our style quotient to a higher level comes from a quality handbag. Here is how to pick the right bag to match your outfit, each and every time!
Consider:
- The Occasion
Whether you are going shopping, formal, dressy, office, informal or casual, you need a different bag to go with the occasion. As a rule of thumb, small bags add a more sophisticated look while large bags give a more laid-back aura. This is why we usually wear larger bags with casuals and clutches when we wear formal clothes. So, if you decide to wear a casual bag with formal outfits or a stiff bag with casuals, you will get a fine from the fashion police! Here are some essential bags you should definitely have in your armory! And now, let’s look at what bag you can carry according to the occasion.
Shopping – An over-sized duffel or hobo bag that goes beautifully with sneakers, shorts, and t-shirts.
With summer dress and sandals – A sling bag will look adorable with your look. Wear it over your shoulder and you are good to go (we want to go simple in this case).
With skinny jeans and blazer or tunic – A tote bag or even a hobo will help give the elegance you are seeking without being too formal.
Office attire – Roomy tote bags are perfect if you wear a tailored trouser suit. You can also get the same business look with a satchel or structured boxy bag. In general, office bags need to have large compartments for all your stuff, including your notebook or laptop. That noted, satchel bags also look great with high-waist trousers or skirts worn with cardigan combos or cotton or soft linen gauzy tops.
Power dressing – Briefcase bags or top-handle tote bags will help you exude sophistication and will easily give you the lean and mean boardroom presence you want. Under no circumstances, though, should you try slouchy bags, duffels or hobos as they are poor options for the kind of style you want to achieve.
Cocktail dress/long gown – Clutches and miniature bags are ideal for formal and dressy events. You can also pair them with your favorite LBD. If you are wearing a sheath dress, metallic or sequined envelope clutches are an excellent option. For the cases when your dress comes with heavy detailing or embellishments. Then a plain clutch is a wiser choice.