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A handbag is a transformative item in a woman’s wardrobe that can turn a basic outfit into a stunning one. Like a chameleon, a handbag can match your personality and mood. It can accentuate your outfit, draw attention to a specific area, or tone it down. The handbag is the voice of your outfit.

But the key to working in harmony with your handbag is mastering the art of matching your bag to your outfit. These key steps will help you become your own stylist in no time!

Choose the right size bag

When it comes to choosing a handbag, size matters.

For everyday outfits and errand-fuelled or office days, bigger handbags are a better fit. While micro bags are still having their moment, oversized bags made a return to the runway.

It’s an early 2000’s inspired trend we saw emerging towards the end of last year, and we will fully embrace it in 2023 with a chicer and more elevated reimagining.

“The need for practical carryalls continues to increase, and the hobo style checks the boxes,” said Kendall Becker, Fashion and Beauty Trends Editor at Trendalytics.

For nights out and statement outfits, a smaller handbag, such as a clutch bag or a micro darling, would add a subtle finishing touch to your look without overpowering it.

Colour matching

This is the year of bright hues and bold colour combinations. Hinting to the ‘80s, we’re taking an “anything goes” fashion approach but focusing more on style and thoughtful outfit matching.

“After several seasons of dressing down and wearing muted shades, we are seeing an explosion of what has been termed ‘dopamine dressing’.  Our customers are looking to invest in mood-boosting styles that make them look and feel good. Our SS23 collection is a combination of sophisticated neutral tones, statement colour pops and shimmering metallics. Colour works really well for us and for spring, we’ve introduced citrus lime and vibrant orange. Through mixing timeless textures and joyful colours, we will be finding our way to optimistic, feel-good dressing,” said Debra Bloom, Global Buying Director at Dune London.

These vibrant colours can easily be paired with tan, neutrals and contrasting blacks to create a pleasing and striking match. In Dune London’s TikTok video, Debra Bloom gives more advice on how to wear the SS23 colourways.

There are many ways to introduce colour into our wardrobes through outfits and accessories, and finding the right balance between the two is key. A red handbag, for example, would look striking against a fuchsia pink dress, as the two colours create warmth and vibration when put together. The key is to either match two or three primary colours or to combine complementary colours of the same brightness and hue sitting on opposite sides of the colour wheel.”

Experiment with patterns

Patterns are a great way to breathe more life into an outfit. If your outfit consists of bold patterns and prints, choose a bag with a similar or contrasting pattern to add dimension and stimulate visual interest.

For example, plaid is coming back in fashion, and you can masterfully pair a beige and brown plaid skirt with a green and brown plaid handbag for a fashion-forward look.

Similarly, you can create a contrasting visual effect by pairing a solid-coloured outfit with a subtle printed or textured bag. A quilted clutch bag or an embroidered crossbody bag, for example, can add dimension and flair to your look.

Invest in staple handbags

Every woman should have one staple handbag that goes with everything. It’s your go-to when you’re not in the mood for mixing patterns and colours or need to get ready quickly, or recreate a classic, chic look.

Just like a little black dress, a little black handbag – or not so little – is an essential item in a woman’s wardrobe. It’s a timeless piece that exudes elegance and authority. Choose the design that best fits your lifestyle, or invest in a few for various occasions.

A classic design is a wardrobe must, but if you want to make a statement with your handbag, invest in a unique silhouette, such as a baguette, a heart-shaped cross-body bag, or a buckles design, which are all trending this year.

A leather handbag is also a wardrobe staple, as it’s a quality piece that not only looks chic with any outfit but will also last you for years on end.

Mastering the art of coordinating your outfit with your handbag will elevate your wardrobe immediately. Once you know the secrets of handbag matching, you can turn any outfit into a fashion statement.