I strongly dislike changing bags so I also only have one. My mom collects designer bags and is disappointed that I have no interest in “inheriting” them.
Exactly! I have two bags for two different purposes, and two sets of stuff in them. Do people who match their bags with their outfit move all their stuff each time? Is having a "work purse" not a usual thing? Am I carrying too many things?
100% agree, and I've been doing this for years. I have dark red/ auburn hair, and I love a cognac bag. It means my bag always makes sense with the outfit, regardless of the other accessories, because it picks up another colour in the overall look.
I would love to see a week of you trying these guidelines, showing the outfits, and then at the end of each day sharing how you felt throughout the day wearing it!
I have two additional ideas to add: 1. Consider your hair colour as an accessory (I think someone has already mentioned this one). I think this adds to why outfits 8 and 10 work, because she has matched the black of her hair to bag/shoes. 2. Match to the metallic of whatever jewellery you wear/ hardware on the opposing accessory, e.g. fully silver shoes with silver hardware on the bag or belt (I would probably use this for a party outfit!)
As a redhead, this is so true. I can't avoid my hair as the standout in any outfit. I wear fewer colors than most, because the combo of red-brown hair and brown eyes, and peachy skin is so monochromatic on my body, my best palette includes black, browns, brick reds, and particular greens (emerald and avocado/olive) as my color complimentary shade. That's pretty much it! But when I do wear these, the outfits absolutely sing on me. Also, as a redhead with warm skin, copper, bronze and rich gold are my metal colors. While I do wear silver, I always mix metal colors with intention, otherwise it just looks off.
Hair color but also skin color, too. The most striking example is the woman in black skirt and black boots with a white turtleneck and white bag. Both her hair and skin compliment the colors completely. Imagine if she had medium warm hair and golden skin - it would not be nearly as interesting to look at. As a neutral/cool brunette with olive skin, I think a chocolate brown handbag might be a good choice for me in this context.
I’ve done a bunch of photography, and was noticing in the first few images that the backdrop, the setting, echoed the outfit. Taupe shoes/skirt and brown sweater/bag was set against a brown marble wall and grey floor. There was more, and I kept noticing, but can’t recall them all now. I was so excited when you mentioned the butter yellow sand! Anyway … my point (if I actually have one) is that when looking at fashion photography, notice the setting. It may be reinforcing the look and making you like it more. It’s just interesting. I do think you should try different accessories, because it’s such a cool project! Be bold! 🥰
One thing I notice a lot in these is these people’s hair color speak to the rest of the outfit too. Thinking of that blonde woman wearing all black with a brown bag. Her dirty blonde hair kind of spoke to her bag.
This is so interesting for me to watch because I have NEVER had this hang up myself, so while I'm watching you work through this I'm trying to think of why it doesn't bother me at all. I think that for me personally, I've just never conceived of a bag as something you WEAR, but as something you USE. And if if a bag is a utilitarian item - though of course often a pretty one - then why would it need to match? To me it's not a part of the outfit at all, it's just a thing I'm carrying. So now, funnily enough, as you're working out how to break yourself out of the habit of matching your accessories, I'm now wondering if I should START matching them on days when I want to look a bit more polished.
While to me a bag is 100% a part of the outfit so much so that i get annoyed because i can't have it on my person all the time so that every person i interact with can see my full outfit 😂
@AJisreading You pretty much captured exactly my feelings like have I been doing it wrong all my life 🧐 and I always get complimented on my style 🧐 … but I have zero interest in getting extra bags ..hmm all very interesting
There is a method in art where one uses a single color as the base for each shade of a painting to make things look cohesive. I think the look of some garments having the same filter on them is due to the base colors of the clothing. It almost looks monochromatic but it’s not and it still works
I agree with that. Every color has a “base” color. Like two different baby pinks are different due to one having a more reddish base and one having a more purplish base. Just like two kakhi colors don’t match because one has a blackish base and one might have a creamier base. I also tend to notice metals and having the bag and shoes are both silver or gold or brass
My mom always used to say that the perfect color shoes or perfect color bag matches the color of your hair. I think that’s part of why Abi’s able to pull off the pops of black in an otherwise bichromatic look - the black matches her hair!
Hmmm. I have platinum silver hair with some very very dark brown, almost black, bits at the nape of my neck. Interesting concept -- will need to look for gray bags and shoes!
As a creative person who thinks you can solve most problems in a spreadsheet, this video was so satisfying to watch! I love the method of dissecting the elements and the psychological safety you are creating for yourself with your new rules. It's so good! I've been watching your videos for about a year now and I can't believe that I'm just now realizing that the way you present content hits every thing that I like -- artistry/design, behavior, and methodical organization.
I wonder if another element at play is not color so much as light v. dark. I think the idea of dark receding and light coming forward also adds or reduces emphasis to the individual accessories and affects how they blend into or stand out from the outfit as a whole
This was fascinating to watch. I dress based on a feeling of balance and interest. It just has to feel right… but I never put much thought into the WHY. I have never given thought to matching accessories, as long as the total outfit feels balanced. It’s fascinating to see how others people’s brains work.
I'm loving all your style insights! Thank you. Some thoughts: The eye (really, the brain) takes in EVERYTHING, not only from head-to-toe, including skin and hair, but the surroundings as well. (Take the beautiful orange outfit: the shoes reflect the pavement and grey surroundings, the punch of the black bag is echoed by her black sleek hair, and her deep skin tone leads the eye through from face, to hand, to ankle.) The eye wants balance--repetition in even the subtlest form, could be from the lip color or glint from an earring--and novelty at the same time.
I prefer matching shoes with bottoms rather than with anything else: it looks so harmonious and alongating. And the bag can be whatever as long as it is goes with colour palette. In general I try not to break "3 colours per outfit max" rule, which imo is so comforting to the eye
Agreed with others on here. One of the principles making some of these successful is when the outfit is thought about vertically. Bag matches top. Shoes match pants/skirt.
For anyone who likes to stick to their color season, get a bag in one of your seasons neutrals. You might want a light and a dark option. It will blend well with most of the other colors. General rule of thumb, winters go for black, summers gray, springs British tan, and autumns chocolate brown.
The hair keeps getting shorter and more textured!!!! I love it!!!! Also I agree with the matching. I used to be so so obsessed with matching my accessories exactly. Now I’ve let it go, by imagining if I would like my (not matching) outfit if another person wore it on Pinterest. Most of the time, YES! So we’re just hypercritical of ourselves and in need of perfection. Helps me a lot
@@tredjesongenbut she's had a baby and said she felt she'd changed. I guess she's gone a bit mumsy but then she is a mum so 🤷 also babies pull your hair if it's down and it really hurts, they're vicious haha
Carla Rockmore has some amazing ideas about accessorizing on her TH-cam channel. She's a designer who collects vintage pieces. Her outfits are definitely bright and busy. Her advice is solid. Carla Rockmore has said if you have a coat that goes with nothing it will go with everything. I wonder if the same could be true for a bag, belt, or footwear?
As a Carla Rockmore fan, I think yes! I have a transparent sandals (forget the name of the material now) that I use when I don't have the right color for an outfit.
@DORCASDIASRIESMAKINGMEMORIES "glass" or nude shoes are a safe bet, metalic only a bit bolder, but I think a bright pop of contrasting color would be fun for someone with the confidence to wear them.
I see people talking about hair as part of the color story but I’d add one’s whole body, especially skin! There are several examples in your video but my absolute favorite is outfit 12: the gorgeous dark skin tone, cropped black hair, black skirt + shoes, and cream sweater + bag. The look would still be great but far less striking on, for example, a person with lots of taupe or red or tan coloration overall. The self is a color element not to be dismissed!
The thing that my eye went right to on Abi's twinset outfit (#10) is that the ornaments (buckles?) on the shoes are so closely matched in color, size, and thickness to the circles of the skirt pattern. I think in terms of color a lot when building outfits, so this is giving me a lot to ponder!
I never understood this issue because 99% of the time when you're wearing an outfit you are not holding your bag. At work, in office, even running errands. Plus the fact I generally have the bag that is practical and I'm not switching every day.
I would love a followup video of you playing with your wardrobe. It would be especially cool to see a look the way you used to do it and then compare it side by side with the updated look.
In many of these cases the unifying element is the model themselves. They matched at least one of their accessories to either their hair color or skin color or a variation on them. When you do this you keep your outfit simple and uncluttered. In your case use your auburn hair and green eyes or you can also use the various colors from your skin. Then you can add an accent color.
I just want to say that I find it so nice and inspiring to add you with no (?) or very minimal eye makeup. My female friends tend to be decked out in false lashes or at least lots of mascara and eyeliner. Lately my eyes have been so sensitive that they won't tolerate anything on them at all. Initially I felt naked with no eye makeup at all, but after a few weeks I actually noticed (for the first time ever in my 38 years) that I actually have pretty eyes, all ok their own. And so do you! And I think as women we can enjoy makeup or skip it and still feel attractive and confident. So I appreciate your reaffirming what I have been learning lately 😍
I've watched a lot of makeup videos and everything from facial features, skin tone, makeup style etc it's all so different and beauty standards are different across the world. What I've come to see is someone somewhere will be trying to recreate whatever it is that you have naturally. So I totally agree with you just to chill about it and do your own thing as the mood takes you.
In the image featuring Abimarvel with the grey print suit and orange shirt/bag, I also think the shoes echo the print in terms of being geometric shapes, without perfectly matching. For me that’s another thing that holds it together. Absolutely love this video and being in on your conversation with yourself. I have learned so much from you!
I also felt that in many of the photos while the accessories didn't necessarily match each other or other clothing items, they matched other elements of the photo. I wonder if the outfits would still work as well in a different environment where the elements are more contrasting, or in real life
Matching mismatched items is an art. There was a Dutch designer at the end of the last century named Koos Vandenakker, that was well known on 7th Ave but not much outside the business. He had a store on Madison Avenue that was beautiful, and he was a genius. He would take 2 prints that apart you would think 'No way' ,and when put together became more than the sum of its parts. If you like to be idiosyncratic, take a look at his designs.
Omg, I love that Abi look with the blue polo. I love the super feminine black skirt with the subdued blue more masculine polo. I love the contrast of those 2 pieces 😍
I get it. I’m Gen X. I’ve had to convince myself to abandon so many things I was taught were correct. I had to LEARN not to wear pantyhose years ago! 😂 It was so ingrained in me as proper. The bag, shoes, and belt matching exactly was another one. That was difficult too. I’m way better about that now, too. And you nailed it, it’s easier to break when it’s different shades on the same color. (I think I’d like the all black outfit with the brown bag and black shoes more with a brown belt that matched the bag)
Hannah!! My love I am surprised you haven’t yet thought of skin tone also being a part of an outfit and helping when it comes to colours and accessories and how tonal an outfit is. Contrast between skin, hair and outfit matters. Give it a think over 💕
I love this. I'm doing an 8-wk no buy shop you closet challenge inspired by these videos (one week all monochromatic, one week big/big, etc) and was worried about the "Focus on accessories" week but now I feel so inspired!!!!! Thank you for being there as I try to avoid the holiday sales!!!!
I liked this because it is very relatable to anyone who is stuck with the old fashion rules from when we were growing up and our elders always sticking to strict rules with style. Not matching shoes and bag is just a more modern and effortless way to go about getting dressed now. You just need to dive right into it and not worry about it or overthink it to get past it.
OMG Hannah!! This is brilliant! I’ve never thought about it this way and I’m loving how it’s opening up my mind to so many different clothing combos!!!
I got a squeaky pair of earrings the other day, I used the tiniest pin tip of silicon grease (I happened to acquire during a fountain pen obsession) on the parts that rubbed together. Worked great, thankfully. I hated the sound and love the earrings.
LOVE this video! Hannah, your diligence and focus in honing your personal sense of style is really crystallizing into something beautiful! Consider me inspired. ❤
Love this. But I'm quite confused by some of these outfits. The woman who is cold enough to wear gloves but doesn't have a jacket on-what kind of weather is she dressed for? Also the woman in butter yellow, on a grey, cloudy day-if it rains, she is going to get soaked to the skin. Also, in what weather is it warm enough for bare legs and slingbacks but cool enough to wear a heavy leather skirt?
One of my guidelines is everything needs a friend. So I mismatch shoes and bag but add a scarf or sweater that matches one of them. Except in the instance where the bag is a different color, which I love! Enjoyed this video so much. Thanks
Coming back to this video after it inspired me to attempt and *nail* an all-olive toned look today. Like many others in the comments, I don't have the type of wardrobe where matching shoes and bags can sustainably apply to me, but I still watch you parse out the rules with rapt fascination. 🤩
I think I’m more curious how has motherhood impacted the way you dress. I feel like I do not wear some colors and certain clothes that may stain easily, others that aren’t flexible, and shoes that can go from 0-10 running if necessary. I ask because I only own one nice bag and a few pieces that are very expensive, but it seems you dress very high end all the time (from my perception). How do you adjust what you wear for the context of life (hikes, with kids, etc)? I struggle with this, I have a ganni parka and it seems durable but it’s one of the high end pieces I get nervous to wear in case it gets caught-also I’m an overthinker 😂
This was BRILLIANT I do try to matchup things like belt shoes and bag but the insight you’ve brought through this exploration is genius, it totally works and has changed my accessory thinking . Thank you Hannah 🤗
Fwiw I'm pretty sure she had a recent video where she talks about this... Basically her lounge clothes all look nice (but they're still comfortable, ergo still count as lounge). She said her mom once commented on how put together she looked, and it was wide legged pants (linen?), a semi cropped white tee,... Basically she had that to 'throw on' instead of old pilled sweats. The video has the thumbnail with her in a Disney sweatshirt on one side.
Gahhhh!!! accessories that don't match!!! light neutral purse and dark shoes!!! Make it make sense!!! Well, yes, you did, and it does. I would say that this is one of my most favorite and aspirational of your fash-un videos ever. Super fun to watch, thank you for the morning reprieve and inspo. 🥰
Even though we have quite different styles, I love hearing you talk about fashion gramatics because I too think this deeply about aesthetics lol. Thank you Hannah! ❤
I tend to make sure that my belt, shoes and bag don’t all match. That’s when it really starts looking too matchy matchy to me. And it’s interesting to see this video right now because lately I have been trying to not match my shoes and bag. It’s hard because so many of my bags and shoes are the same neutral colors.
Oh HLP, I love you and the way you bring us along on your thought journeys. Not only is it a joy to hear you eloquently narrate and explain what you're seeing, but it's entirely useful and relevant in day to day life. I recently bought my first pair of colored sneakers...a gorgeous deep red orange pair. I knew I had to have them and love them in their own right and they do vibe with the overall colors I tend to wear. But I have been struggling to decide how SPECIFICALLY to pair them with an outfit. You, my dear, just have me the "formulas" to work that out. I squealed with excitement when it dawned on me. Thanks for being you and sharing your magic with us.
Hah, it's so interesting and fun to see your style and sense of style develop. At this point I don't share the same preferences (like, aesthetic wise) as you, almost at all, but you have such a nuanced way of seeing and wording things, that I can watch any of your video and be totally immersed by it. Like, barely nothing is *just* what it looks like, there's always this whole world behind it, and I so enjoy hearing people explaining the deepest core of things.
I really appreciate your analysis of color and texture! I got so desperate I gave up and purchased a black-and-brown bag so I don't have to worry about it. With these guidelines, I can be more thoughtful about my choices now.
Your mind! I love this. As some have said, i don't have the same hang up but I enjoyed your analysis and will use the formulas to make myself look more polished!
That sky blue bag made me drool in the last video and it's making me drool again! Gorgeous! All of these are gorgeous images!!!!! They make me want to dress well and go out!❤ i am LOVING the fashion videos lately Hannah! Well done!!!
First of all, your hair looks amazing in this video! Love it!! Second, I love this topic and how you analyzed it!! I have also been struggling with this concept, and this was SO helpful! Thank you! ❤
Thank you so much for this video, Hannah! I'll be honest, in your previous videos when you're discussed matching shoes with your bag/matching accessories, it stressed me a bit hahaha. Because I don't tend to do that, but I also don't really know how to do it any other way, so I always just stuck to a black purse in any situation. Your notes are so helpful! I'm going to try being a bit more adventurous with this!
Hannah, great content - I love how you go through the outfits. This is eye opening for me. By the way, I love your new look; no eye makeup whatsoever. This looks very confident to me! Kind regards from Düsseldorf, Germany
I too struggled with how to mix colors into a cohesive outfit until I discovered the Tibi color wheel and their principle of one ton or none . It was the one thing that really helped me understand how to put different elements together in a way that works. Amy Smilovic is a genius!
I havent finished the video, but just wanna add, just incase you haven’t thought of it, that sometimes our hair can be one of the accessories to triangulate. For example i have basically black hair, so i find it’s easy to wear black bag and shoes because it matches them. I think thats the case with Abi too 😊
Super helpful video because I was having the same problem in only seeing it as a “problem” if things didn’t match. Some rules that I grew up on are “outdated”. Like a Jean shirt on jean bottoms moment, or mixing black and brown because they “don’t go together”. And, also, in regard to matching jewelry tone as well! Thank you for the inspiration!
I know what you mean about adjusting your eyes to something you're not used to. Just wanted to say that I love your makeup! It's perfect. I love that your eyes are not overdone and that you aren't doing those ridiculous fake lashes that are so much in vogue nowadays. You are really unique and lovely.
I think outfit No. 10 works so well because not only the colours match, but also the shapes match in a way. Both the top and bag share the same colour, but they also share the same v-curve on top and are the exposed orange parts are about the same size as well, mirroring each other. And the shoes fit in so well because the shape of the buckle echoes the pattern on the skirt: a visually white, thick ring shape on a neutral-coloured (yes, black/grey are not really colours, I know) background. It's masterful and looks so intentional. So even though at first glance the outfit is very loud and eclectic, when you break it down there really are only two main colours (black, grey=a tonal variation of black, and orange), and a little bit of white as an accent colour. At least that's how I would explain it.
Oh, Hannah, I’m cracking up. You really are struggling with this and working HARD at this analysis. I always love your analyses, your thoughtfulness, your vocabulary. I just didn’t need this personally! I hope it was super helpful for you and others. I’m sure it was!
I really love that very first picture you put up and have no idea what combination of keywords to put into Pinterest to find it. There's an element of casualness in all of these that is brought forward (if not outright made the focal point) of all the outfits shown here, even when there's a really polished look overall, and maybe that's something to think about. I seriously have to up my bag game - I have about one top-handle bag at all, all of mine are crossbody, and it's hard to really recreated any of these and get a similar vibe when your bags are too casual or too big!
I feel like with the Abisola images, she also has a detail on her shoe that matches a color in her clothing that helps to tie it together. Like in the first image the shoes have a black rhinestone detail that matches the black of the outfit, and in the fourth her black shoes have a white rhinestone detail that matches the white detail in her skirt and sweater set.
I think for me what makes the taupe/brown bag work in the look with the blue shirt and the black skirt and shoes is that it aligns with the vibe of the outfit (as you commented on in a later look)--the pencil skirt and button-down shirt read corporate, and the satchel bag also reads corporate. But then, as another viewer commented, you have the dressier elements of the skirt and shoes taken down a notch by the more utilitarian shirt and bag. So it's not one-dimensional corporate; there's some dynamism there. A follow-up video where you apply these notes to your own wardrobe would be so good! Thank you for all your thoughtful and engaging work. I am really pretty much a sweater-jeans-boots kinda babe, but I loooooooove how you give my analytical mind something to understand outside of national and world politics (which are of course so important but OMG, how can we even understand so much of what is happening?). Anyway--thank you. Your work matters. 💖
Re the outfit at 16:15 - I think the shoes work because they're black and white(ish) and they echo the black and white tweed look of the skirt and sweater. Excellent video!
I think one thing Abisola does so well is balance vibes. Her shoes and bag might match because of the formality of the gold chain/hardware and the jewelry on the shoes. Or her blue sweater and brown bag are matched in preppiness which is balanced with the matched graphic black skirt and shoe. If it’s not colour she’s balancing it’s the vibe/essence of the actual piece.
it so weird to me that shoes and bags are considered by many to be accessories. I usually have one or two pairs of shoes for each season and often skip the bag or use the same one all the time. of course it's a lifestyle difference but maybe socioeconomic as well.
You are right on the money. I agree with you totally. That’s why it works because the bag is matching something; as long as the bag and shoes are matching something in the outfit they don’t have to match each other.
What a fortuitously timed video! I am in the market for a new bag and have been agonizing for weeks over what color to get to match my most worn winter boots. This has given me some clarity and permission for it not to be an exact match
I think that the goal is to have the bag/shoes/accessories work in a complentary way. They can either unify the outfit, or play against type. An accessory means what we decide it means, and an edgy bag with a classic outfit can be really interesting. I think as long as your items have internal coherence it will work - the same way that coherent separates work together.
Another option that Hannah alluded to was texture play. I think that can help with changing things up with mismatched accessories and whatnot. Maybe that’s just me though.
I love your videos, they truly light up my life and make me think about fashion and makeup in ways that I never would have thought. I want to say this with as much compassion as possible...I think you might be overthinking this one...just try grabbing that brown back when you are wearing a black coat and some Adidas shoes...it will feel good❤️
To piggyback off a lot of comments about looking at hair color as an accessory, I also think that skin tone is a visible element that can make an accessory work as well. I feel like Hannah was getting thrown off by Abi wearing that brown bag in the one image, but I look at the same image and go "yeah, her SKIN is brown, it's fine".
To keep it easy, I consider my hair, eye, and skin colours to be my fashion go-tos: grey/platinum/silver, blue, and light pink. I'm a Summer and would only splurge on investment accessories from that palette.
I've bypassed this entirely by picking the neutrals that I like and only using those. For me it's black and gray/greige, sometimes army green... and I don't stray into browns or blues or even whites. Then my neutrals never clash with each other, and neither do my pops of color, everything in my wardrobe including my accessories just gel. It's less adventurous, but I wore the neons in college already lol :)
This has given meso much to think about! I love this though process format of video, and I will be coming back to this as I introduce colour into my wardrobe
The best way to become okay with mismatched bags and shoes is to only have one bag like me😂
I could never. Bags are my thing. Even if I mainly rotate between the same 3 and don’t match shoes to bag 😂
I strongly dislike changing bags so I also only have one. My mom collects designer bags and is disappointed that I have no interest in “inheriting” them.
Exactly! I have two bags for two different purposes, and two sets of stuff in them. Do people who match their bags with their outfit move all their stuff each time? Is having a "work purse" not a usual thing? Am I carrying too many things?
Entirely correct. I have one bag. And it just has to work with everything because I have no other choice
Have had a brown bag for 6 years that's now starting to fall apart. And all I wore it with was black shoes the entire time.
My mom used to emphasize to me that while some things match, other things “go”. Often the thing that makes it go is just attitude and instinct.
100% agree, and I've been doing this for years. I have dark red/ auburn hair, and I love a cognac bag. It means my bag always makes sense with the outfit, regardless of the other accessories, because it picks up another colour in the overall look.
Your mum was wise.
@@sparkybish I love the way your mom puts it
I loove what you have on! The earrings could easily match a hand bag or shoes! So just look at ALL assessories! Brilliant video!
Me watching with rapt attention while owning 1 black bag, 1 pair of purple running shoes, and 1 pair of snow boots worn 3ish months a year.
I would love to see a week of you trying these guidelines, showing the outfits, and then at the end of each day sharing how you felt throughout the day wearing it!
Yes loove this idea
I have two additional ideas to add:
1. Consider your hair colour as an accessory (I think someone has already mentioned this one). I think this adds to why outfits 8 and 10 work, because she has matched the black of her hair to bag/shoes.
2. Match to the metallic of whatever jewellery you wear/ hardware on the opposing accessory, e.g. fully silver shoes with silver hardware on the bag or belt (I would probably use this for a party outfit!)
This is very true when you have your hair dyed fashion colors!
My hair is natural grey. I don't think I own any light grey clothing, but I do wear silver jewelry. Hmm... I need to think about this more.
As a redhead, this is so true. I can't avoid my hair as the standout in any outfit. I wear fewer colors than most, because the combo of red-brown hair and brown eyes, and peachy skin is so monochromatic on my body, my best palette includes black, browns, brick reds, and particular greens (emerald and avocado/olive) as my color complimentary shade. That's pretty much it! But when I do wear these, the outfits absolutely sing on me. Also, as a redhead with warm skin, copper, bronze and rich gold are my metal colors. While I do wear silver, I always mix metal colors with intention, otherwise it just looks off.
Love these additional thoughts @elinorpercival5249
Hair color but also skin color, too. The most striking example is the woman in black skirt and black boots with a white turtleneck and white bag. Both her hair and skin compliment the colors completely. Imagine if she had medium warm hair and golden skin - it would not be nearly as interesting to look at.
As a neutral/cool brunette with olive skin, I think a chocolate brown handbag might be a good choice for me in this context.
I’ve done a bunch of photography, and was noticing in the first few images that the backdrop, the setting, echoed the outfit. Taupe shoes/skirt and brown sweater/bag was set against a brown marble wall and grey floor. There was more, and I kept noticing, but can’t recall them all now. I was so excited when you mentioned the butter yellow sand! Anyway … my point (if I actually have one) is that when looking at fashion photography, notice the setting. It may be reinforcing the look and making you like it more. It’s just interesting. I do think you should try different accessories, because it’s such a cool project! Be bold!
🥰
Thank you for the comment about setting! ❤
One thing I notice a lot in these is these people’s hair color speak to the rest of the outfit too. Thinking of that blonde woman wearing all black with a brown bag. Her dirty blonde hair kind of spoke to her bag.
This is so interesting for me to watch because I have NEVER had this hang up myself, so while I'm watching you work through this I'm trying to think of why it doesn't bother me at all. I think that for me personally, I've just never conceived of a bag as something you WEAR, but as something you USE. And if if a bag is a utilitarian item - though of course often a pretty one - then why would it need to match? To me it's not a part of the outfit at all, it's just a thing I'm carrying.
So now, funnily enough, as you're working out how to break yourself out of the habit of matching your accessories, I'm now wondering if I should START matching them on days when I want to look a bit more polished.
Agree. This video to me is bizarre lol. It's like oh good *another* thing we have to be concerned about. I'm not giving in lol.
I’ve always thought that a bag was something I carry not something I wear, but I see that it can be a part of an outfit.
While to me a bag is 100% a part of the outfit so much so that i get annoyed because i can't have it on my person all the time so that every person i interact with can see my full outfit 😂
Even my reuseable shopping bags match my outfits! Too far in the other direction, I know
@AJisreading You pretty much captured exactly my feelings like have I been doing it wrong all my life 🧐 and I always get complimented on my style 🧐 … but I have zero interest in getting extra bags ..hmm all very interesting
There is a method in art where one uses a single color as the base for each shade of a painting to make things look cohesive. I think the look of some garments having the same filter on them is due to the base colors of the clothing. It almost looks monochromatic but it’s not and it still works
I agree with that. Every color has a “base” color. Like two different baby pinks are different due to one having a more reddish base and one having a more purplish base. Just like two kakhi colors don’t match because one has a blackish base and one might have a creamier base. I also tend to notice metals and having the bag and shoes are both silver or gold or brass
My mom always used to say that the perfect color shoes or perfect color bag matches the color of your hair. I think that’s part of why Abi’s able to pull off the pops of black in an otherwise bichromatic look - the black matches her hair!
matching shoes to your hair also creates a sandwich 🥪
Hmmm. I have platinum silver hair with some very very dark brown, almost black, bits at the nape of my neck. Interesting concept -- will need to look for gray bags and shoes!
Yesss I was just gonna comment this. Your hair definitely counts in the triangulation rule.
As a creative person who thinks you can solve most problems in a spreadsheet, this video was so satisfying to watch! I love the method of dissecting the elements and the psychological safety you are creating for yourself with your new rules. It's so good! I've been watching your videos for about a year now and I can't believe that I'm just now realizing that the way you present content hits every thing that I like -- artistry/design, behavior, and methodical organization.
I wonder if another element at play is not color so much as light v. dark. I think the idea of dark receding and light coming forward also adds or reduces emphasis to the individual accessories and affects how they blend into or stand out from the outfit as a whole
This was fascinating to watch. I dress based on a feeling of balance and interest. It just has to feel right… but I never put much thought into the WHY. I have never given thought to matching accessories, as long as the total outfit feels balanced. It’s fascinating to see how others people’s brains work.
I'm loving all your style insights! Thank you. Some thoughts: The eye (really, the brain) takes in EVERYTHING, not only from head-to-toe, including skin and hair, but the surroundings as well. (Take the beautiful orange outfit: the shoes reflect the pavement and grey surroundings, the punch of the black bag is echoed by her black sleek hair, and her deep skin tone leads the eye through from face, to hand, to ankle.) The eye wants balance--repetition in even the subtlest form, could be from the lip color or glint from an earring--and novelty at the same time.
I prefer matching shoes with bottoms rather than with anything else: it looks so harmonious and alongating. And the bag can be whatever as long as it is goes with colour palette. In general I try not to break "3 colours per outfit max" rule, which imo is so comforting to the eye
Yes, matching bottoms with shoes... I do this as a petite...or a nude shoe
Agreed with others on here. One of the principles making some of these successful is when the outfit is thought about vertically. Bag matches top. Shoes match pants/skirt.
This is an important one to me - so that larger graceful cohesive zones are created
For anyone who likes to stick to their color season, get a bag in one of your seasons neutrals. You might want a light and a dark option. It will blend well with most of the other colors. General rule of thumb, winters go for black, summers gray, springs British tan, and autumns chocolate brown.
Your analysis of these monochromatic looks is really giving art analysis. It’s really enjoyable
The hair keeps getting shorter and more textured!!!! I love it!!!!
Also I agree with the matching. I used to be so so obsessed with matching my accessories exactly. Now I’ve let it go, by imagining if I would like my (not matching) outfit if another person wore it on Pinterest. Most of the time, YES! So we’re just hypercritical of ourselves and in need of perfection. Helps me a lot
I was thinking the same thing! Every video I watch her hair keeps getting shorter and shorter! I love it!
It annoys the heck out of me😅
With longer hair she looked so much more like herself.
Her face deserves looong hair okay!
@@tredjesongenbut she's had a baby and said she felt she'd changed. I guess she's gone a bit mumsy but then she is a mum so 🤷 also babies pull your hair if it's down and it really hurts, they're vicious haha
Carla Rockmore has some amazing ideas about accessorizing on her TH-cam channel. She's a designer who collects vintage pieces. Her outfits are definitely bright and busy. Her advice is solid. Carla Rockmore has said if you have a coat that goes with nothing it will go with everything. I wonder if the same could be true for a bag, belt, or footwear?
As a Carla Rockmore fan, I think yes! I have a transparent sandals (forget the name of the material now) that I use when I don't have the right color for an outfit.
Lydia Tomlinson, Emma Hill, Slow Down In Style, and Styled. by Sansha on TH-cam also have great fashion and accessorizing channels as well.
@DORCASDIASRIESMAKINGMEMORIES "glass" or nude shoes are a safe bet, metalic only a bit bolder, but I think a bright pop of contrasting color would be fun for someone with the confidence to wear them.
I see people talking about hair as part of the color story but I’d add one’s whole body, especially skin!
There are several examples in your video but my absolute favorite is outfit 12: the gorgeous dark skin tone, cropped black hair, black skirt + shoes, and cream sweater + bag.
The look would still be great but far less striking on, for example, a person with lots of taupe or red or tan coloration overall. The self is a color element not to be dismissed!
The thing that my eye went right to on Abi's twinset outfit (#10) is that the ornaments (buckles?) on the shoes are so closely matched in color, size, and thickness to the circles of the skirt pattern. I think in terms of color a lot when building outfits, so this is giving me a lot to ponder!
From one sad Millennial to another, I feel this in my soul. Thank you!
I never understood this issue because 99% of the time when you're wearing an outfit you are not holding your bag. At work, in office, even running errands. Plus the fact I generally have the bag that is practical and I'm not switching every day.
I would love a followup video of you playing with your wardrobe. It would be especially cool to see a look the way you used to do it and then compare it side by side with the updated look.
Me too!
Your hair keeps getting better! Love it even shorter and with the waves!!!
Love how you take us along while learning things. I am stuck with the same thinking, watching you dismantle it was such a huge help!
In many of these cases the unifying element is the model themselves. They matched at least one of their accessories to either their hair color or skin color or a variation on them. When you do this you keep your outfit simple and uncluttered. In your case use your auburn hair and green eyes or you can also use the various colors from your skin. Then you can add an accent color.
I just want to say that I find it so nice and inspiring to add you with no (?) or very minimal eye makeup. My female friends tend to be decked out in false lashes or at least lots of mascara and eyeliner. Lately my eyes have been so sensitive that they won't tolerate anything on them at all. Initially I felt naked with no eye makeup at all, but after a few weeks I actually noticed (for the first time ever in my 38 years) that I actually have pretty eyes, all ok their own. And so do you! And I think as women we can enjoy makeup or skip it and still feel attractive and confident. So I appreciate your reaffirming what I have been learning lately 😍
I've watched a lot of makeup videos and everything from facial features, skin tone, makeup style etc it's all so different and beauty standards are different across the world. What I've come to see is someone somewhere will be trying to recreate whatever it is that you have naturally. So I totally agree with you just to chill about it and do your own thing as the mood takes you.
Abi is truly a marvel! Thank you for introducing me to her and her excellent style.
In the image featuring Abimarvel with the grey print suit and orange shirt/bag, I also think the shoes echo the print in terms of being geometric shapes, without perfectly matching. For me that’s another thing that holds it together. Absolutely love this video and being in on your conversation with yourself. I have learned so much from you!
Yes, I noticed the shoes echoing the suit print right away too. Came to the comments to see if anyone else saw it.
Me too! I thought it was amazing!
(Almost) Everything needs a “buddy”. And the buddy can be your hair color.
But something spectacular can be a “loner” or “pop”.
I also felt that in many of the photos while the accessories didn't necessarily match each other or other clothing items, they matched other elements of the photo. I wonder if the outfits would still work as well in a different environment where the elements are more contrasting, or in real life
Matching mismatched items is an art. There was a Dutch designer at the end of the last century named Koos Vandenakker, that was well known on 7th Ave but not much outside the business. He had a store on Madison Avenue that was beautiful, and he was a genius. He would take 2 prints that apart you would think 'No way' ,and when put together became more than the sum of its parts. If you like to be idiosyncratic, take a look at his designs.
Omg, I love that Abi look with the blue polo. I love the super feminine black skirt with the subdued blue more masculine polo. I love the contrast of those 2 pieces 😍
I get it. I’m Gen X. I’ve had to convince myself to abandon so many things I was taught were correct. I had to LEARN not to wear pantyhose years ago! 😂 It was so ingrained in me as proper.
The bag, shoes, and belt matching exactly was another one. That was difficult too. I’m way better about that now, too. And you nailed it, it’s easier to break when it’s different shades on the same color.
(I think I’d like the all black outfit with the brown bag and black shoes more with a brown belt that matched the bag)
Hannah!! My love I am surprised you haven’t yet thought of skin tone also being a part of an outfit and helping when it comes to colours and accessories and how tonal an outfit is. Contrast between skin, hair and outfit matters. Give it a think over 💕
I love this. I'm doing an 8-wk no buy shop you closet challenge inspired by these videos (one week all monochromatic, one week big/big, etc) and was worried about the "Focus on accessories" week but now I feel so inspired!!!!!
Thank you for being there as I try to avoid the holiday sales!!!!
I liked this because it is very relatable to anyone who is stuck with the old fashion rules from when we were growing up and our elders always sticking to strict rules with style. Not matching shoes and bag is just a more modern and effortless way to go about getting dressed now. You just need to dive right into it and not worry about it or overthink it to get past it.
OMG Hannah!! This is brilliant! I’ve never thought about it this way and I’m
loving how it’s opening up my mind to so many different clothing combos!!!
I got a squeaky pair of earrings the other day, I used the tiniest pin tip of silicon grease (I happened to acquire during a fountain pen obsession) on the parts that rubbed together. Worked great, thankfully. I hated the sound and love the earrings.
oh my gosh the small subset of fountain pen people who follow Hannah!! I want to request that she does a fountain pen show and tell, haha
I second that request 🙋🏽♀️ It sounds like a cozy time.
Oh fountain pens are fab!
LOVE this video! Hannah, your diligence and focus in honing your personal sense of style is really crystallizing into something beautiful! Consider me inspired. ❤
Love this. But I'm quite confused by some of these outfits. The woman who is cold enough to wear gloves but doesn't have a jacket on-what kind of weather is she dressed for? Also the woman in butter yellow, on a grey, cloudy day-if it rains, she is going to get soaked to the skin. Also, in what weather is it warm enough for bare legs and slingbacks but cool enough to wear a heavy leather skirt?
One of my guidelines is everything needs a friend. So I mismatch shoes and bag but add a scarf or sweater that matches one of them. Except in the instance where the bag is a different color, which I love! Enjoyed this video so much. Thanks
Coming back to this video after it inspired me to attempt and *nail* an all-olive toned look today. Like many others in the comments, I don't have the type of wardrobe where matching shoes and bags can sustainably apply to me, but I still watch you parse out the rules with rapt fascination. 🤩
I think I’m more curious how has motherhood impacted the way you dress. I feel like I do not wear some colors and certain clothes that may stain easily, others that aren’t flexible, and shoes that can go from 0-10 running if necessary. I ask because I only own one nice bag and a few pieces that are very expensive, but it seems you dress very high end all the time (from my perception). How do you adjust what you wear for the context of life (hikes, with kids, etc)? I struggle with this, I have a ganni parka and it seems durable but it’s one of the high end pieces I get nervous to wear in case it gets caught-also I’m an overthinker 😂
This was BRILLIANT I do try to matchup things like belt shoes and bag but the insight you’ve brought through this exploration is genius, it totally works and has changed my accessory thinking . Thank you Hannah 🤗
I’d love to see a video about your very casual clothes- like workout, lounging, etc. especially in the context of being a mom of a toddler
Fwiw I'm pretty sure she had a recent video where she talks about this... Basically her lounge clothes all look nice (but they're still comfortable, ergo still count as lounge). She said her mom once commented on how put together she looked, and it was wide legged pants (linen?), a semi cropped white tee,... Basically she had that to 'throw on' instead of old pilled sweats. The video has the thumbnail with her in a Disney sweatshirt on one side.
@ thank you!
Gahhhh!!! accessories that don't match!!! light neutral purse and dark shoes!!! Make it make sense!!! Well, yes, you did, and it does. I would say that this is one of my most favorite and aspirational of your fash-un videos ever. Super fun to watch, thank you for the morning reprieve and inspo. 🥰
Even though we have quite different styles, I love hearing you talk about fashion gramatics because I too think this deeply about aesthetics lol. Thank you Hannah! ❤
I tend to make sure that my belt, shoes and bag don’t all match. That’s when it really starts looking too matchy matchy to me. And it’s interesting to see this video right now because lately I have been trying to not match my shoes and bag. It’s hard because so many of my bags and shoes are the same neutral colors.
Oh HLP, I love you and the way you bring us along on your thought journeys. Not only is it a joy to hear you eloquently narrate and explain what you're seeing, but it's entirely useful and relevant in day to day life. I recently bought my first pair of colored sneakers...a gorgeous deep red orange pair. I knew I had to have them and love them in their own right and they do vibe with the overall colors I tend to wear. But I have been struggling to decide how SPECIFICALLY to pair them with an outfit. You, my dear, just have me the "formulas" to work that out. I squealed with excitement when it dawned on me. Thanks for being you and sharing your magic with us.
Hah, it's so interesting and fun to see your style and sense of style develop. At this point I don't share the same preferences (like, aesthetic wise) as you, almost at all, but you have such a nuanced way of seeing and wording things, that I can watch any of your video and be totally immersed by it. Like, barely nothing is *just* what it looks like, there's always this whole world behind it, and I so enjoy hearing people explaining the deepest core of things.
I really appreciate your analysis of color and texture! I got so desperate I gave up and purchased a black-and-brown bag so I don't have to worry about it. With these guidelines, I can be more thoughtful about my choices now.
I love this analysis and your walking us through how you came to it. Way better than just giving us the outcome.
Your mind! I love this. As some have said, i don't have the same hang up but I enjoyed your analysis and will use the formulas to make myself look more polished!
That sky blue bag made me drool in the last video and it's making me drool again! Gorgeous! All of these are gorgeous images!!!!! They make me want to dress well and go out!❤ i am LOVING the fashion videos lately Hannah! Well done!!!
I love Linda Wright immaculate style and her knowledge of color and fabric in her outfits!! Icon....
First of all, your hair looks amazing in this video! Love it!! Second, I love this topic and how you analyzed it!! I have also been struggling with this concept, and this was SO helpful! Thank you! ❤
Outfit number 5: the bag matches the roots of Anouk’s hair, and that to me is sort of genius 😊
You’re sort of genius. Went back. Fully agree
Thank you so much for this video, Hannah! I'll be honest, in your previous videos when you're discussed matching shoes with your bag/matching accessories, it stressed me a bit hahaha. Because I don't tend to do that, but I also don't really know how to do it any other way, so I always just stuck to a black purse in any situation. Your notes are so helpful! I'm going to try being a bit more adventurous with this!
Warm pastel butter yellow and cool grey! Amazing.
Your hair looks amazing! I love the texture and waves 😊
Your hair looks so great, Hannah!
Hannah, great content - I love how you go through the outfits. This is eye opening for me. By the way, I love your new look; no eye makeup whatsoever. This looks very confident to me! Kind regards from Düsseldorf, Germany
I too struggled with how to mix colors into a cohesive outfit until I discovered the Tibi color wheel and their principle of one ton or none . It was the one thing that really helped me understand how to put different elements together in a way that works. Amy Smilovic is a genius!
I havent finished the video, but just wanna add, just incase you haven’t thought of it, that sometimes our hair can be one of the accessories to triangulate. For example i have basically black hair, so i find it’s easy to wear black bag and shoes because it matches them. I think thats the case with Abi too 😊
Super helpful video because I was having the same problem in only seeing it as a “problem” if things didn’t match. Some rules that I grew up on are “outdated”. Like a Jean shirt on jean bottoms moment, or mixing black and brown because they “don’t go together”. And, also, in regard to matching jewelry tone as well! Thank you for the inspiration!
I love fashion, and I loooove analyzing and finding the why.
This video was a perfect cup of tea 😊
I know what you mean about adjusting your eyes to something you're not used to. Just wanted to say that I love your makeup! It's perfect. I love that your eyes are not overdone and that you aren't doing those ridiculous fake lashes that are so much in vogue nowadays. You are really unique and lovely.
I mostly wear all black outfits but I love to pair my outfits with a hot pink purse or a purple boot for example, just that 1 pop of color 😊❤️
I think outfit No. 10 works so well because not only the colours match, but also the shapes match in a way.
Both the top and bag share the same colour, but they also share the same v-curve on top and are the exposed orange parts are about the same size as well, mirroring each other. And the shoes fit in so well because the shape of the buckle echoes the pattern on the skirt: a visually white, thick ring shape on a neutral-coloured (yes, black/grey are not really colours, I know) background. It's masterful and looks so intentional. So even though at first glance the outfit is very loud and eclectic, when you break it down there really are only two main colours (black, grey=a tonal variation of black, and orange), and a little bit of white as an accent colour.
At least that's how I would explain it.
Oh, Hannah, I’m cracking up. You really are struggling with this and working HARD at this analysis. I always love your analyses, your thoughtfulness, your vocabulary. I just didn’t need this personally! I hope it was super helpful for you and others. I’m sure it was!
I really love that very first picture you put up and have no idea what combination of keywords to put into Pinterest to find it. There's an element of casualness in all of these that is brought forward (if not outright made the focal point) of all the outfits shown here, even when there's a really polished look overall, and maybe that's something to think about.
I seriously have to up my bag game - I have about one top-handle bag at all, all of mine are crossbody, and it's hard to really recreated any of these and get a similar vibe when your bags are too casual or too big!
I feel like with the Abisola images, she also has a detail on her shoe that matches a color in her clothing that helps to tie it together. Like in the first image the shoes have a black rhinestone detail that matches the black of the outfit, and in the fourth her black shoes have a white rhinestone detail that matches the white detail in her skirt and sweater set.
I am so loving these fashion videos! Gimme all the HLP! ❤❤❤
I think for me what makes the taupe/brown bag work in the look with the blue shirt and the black skirt and shoes is that it aligns with the vibe of the outfit (as you commented on in a later look)--the pencil skirt and button-down shirt read corporate, and the satchel bag also reads corporate. But then, as another viewer commented, you have the dressier elements of the skirt and shoes taken down a notch by the more utilitarian shirt and bag. So it's not one-dimensional corporate; there's some dynamism there.
A follow-up video where you apply these notes to your own wardrobe would be so good!
Thank you for all your thoughtful and engaging work. I am really pretty much a sweater-jeans-boots kinda babe, but I loooooooove how you give my analytical mind something to understand outside of national and world politics (which are of course so important but OMG, how can we even understand so much of what is happening?). Anyway--thank you. Your work matters. 💖
Re the outfit at 16:15 - I think the shoes work because they're black and white(ish) and they echo the black and white tweed look of the skirt and sweater. Excellent video!
I think one thing Abisola does so well is balance vibes. Her shoes and bag might match because of the formality of the gold chain/hardware and the jewelry on the shoes. Or her blue sweater and brown bag are matched in preppiness which is balanced with the matched graphic black skirt and shoe. If it’s not colour she’s balancing it’s the vibe/essence of the actual piece.
so true!!
The red shirt. The shoes have the buckle that goes with the detail on the skirt
Fantastic video. I would also say that YOU know when outfit works so when rules do not apply but YOU see that it works, it’s a go!!❤
Hi Hannah, please do a video of you applying these rules to your own wardrobe! That’d be amazing 😁 love this content!
it so weird to me that shoes and bags are considered by many to be accessories. I usually have one or two pairs of shoes for each season and often skip the bag or use the same one all the time. of course it's a lifestyle difference but maybe socioeconomic as well.
You are right on the money. I agree with you totally. That’s why it works because the bag is matching something; as long as the bag and shoes are matching something in the outfit they don’t have to match each other.
What a fortuitously timed video! I am in the market for a new bag and have been agonizing for weeks over what color to get to match my most worn winter boots. This has given me some clarity and permission for it not to be an exact match
I think that the goal is to have the bag/shoes/accessories work in a complentary way. They can either unify the outfit, or play against type. An accessory means what we decide it means, and an edgy bag with a classic outfit can be really interesting. I think as long as your items have internal coherence it will work - the same way that coherent separates work together.
Another option that Hannah alluded to was texture play. I think that can help with changing things up with mismatched accessories and whatnot. Maybe that’s just me though.
You’re looking so fresh and sea-swept with your white top, beachy hair and earrings!
Love 🤍
Please do a video on dressing for intense winter (where temperature is always colder than -20oc)!
I love your videos, they truly light up my life and make me think about fashion and makeup in ways that I never would have thought. I want to say this with as much compassion as possible...I think you might be overthinking this one...just try grabbing that brown back when you are wearing a black coat and some Adidas shoes...it will feel good❤️
To piggyback off a lot of comments about looking at hair color as an accessory, I also think that skin tone is a visible element that can make an accessory work as well. I feel like Hannah was getting thrown off by Abi wearing that brown bag in the one image, but I look at the same image and go "yeah, her SKIN is brown, it's fine".
To keep it easy, I consider my hair, eye, and skin colours to be my fashion go-tos: grey/platinum/silver, blue, and light pink. I'm a Summer and would only splurge on investment accessories from that palette.
I'd love to see more of these deconstructions with more feminine prints, colours and patterns. Florals, pastels etc. 🌸🙏🏻
Jewel tones with black is so easy. I have purple and red and burgundy shoes and bags…pick black for the other, bam easy
You literally pulled this straight out of my head as I struggle to style the accessories for an outfit I’m wearing to a holiday party tomorrow!
Your videos are so aesthetically pleasing 💕
I've bypassed this entirely by picking the neutrals that I like and only using those. For me it's black and gray/greige, sometimes army green... and I don't stray into browns or blues or even whites. Then my neutrals never clash with each other, and neither do my pops of color, everything in my wardrobe including my accessories just gel. It's less adventurous, but I wore the neons in college already lol :)
This has given meso much to think about! I love this though process format of video, and I will be coming back to this as I introduce colour into my wardrobe
Hannah…this hair cut/style is fabulous on you!
This is really interesting thought. I’ve struggled with similar feelings about what needs to match. The examples are very illuminating. ❤
Would love to see a collab with you and Haute LaMode🎉