Should I Match Items or Not?
Dear Glam Gals,
I have enjoyed your website tremendously. I do have a question regarding the recent trend to “unmatch” items. It seems that it is “in” right now to have shoes not match the bag and also to have almost mismatched items in an outfit. For example, I have seen leopard print shoes (brown and black) with a bright red dress and black belt (I would have gone with a black or red shoe). If I still match, does it make me look dated and out of fashion? The term “matchy-matchy” has been used. How do we know when to match and when not to?
Thanks,
TC
Hi, TC! We agree that this can be a confusing issue. Matching clothes is really based on your own personal style. It’s a lot like how you might want to decorate your house. Some people like the mixed-matched Shabby Chic look and others like an upscale, contemporary, monochromatic look. However, you are on the right track just by being inspired and seeing how stylists in magazines are putting outfits together.
It's all about personal style
Your description above with the leopard print shoe with bright red dress and black belt sounds right on track! One note of caution: If you are going to wear that leopard print shoe, leave the print at that. Don’t go buying the matching purse or belt.
A pattern made up of neutrals can be used to accent any solid bright color.
Moreover, when trying to wear a bright color shoe, do NOT match it with the same color bag. The idea is to have a fun “pop” of color, and not overdo it. If you want to keep it monochromatic, keep the colors subtle by using neutrals like white, tan, black, or grey. A bright yellow, red, or bright blue from head to toe is just too much!
