by Barbara Llarena
OK, I’ll admit it, I have been matchy-matchy on occasion. I’ve matched my jewelry — earrings with a necklace or ring with a bracelet. I’ve even matched clothes with shoes, hat with a jacket, you get the idea. My fashionista daughter reminds me that everything doesn’t have to match.
Matchy-matchy is when you match an outfit too much — same colors, same fabric, same pattern, etc. — too much of a good thing. Being match-matchy is not only boring, but can date you as an old school dresser.
What about you? Are you matchy-matchy? Be honest. Do your shoes and handbag match? What about your belt and shoes? And how about your dress with your eye makeup or lipstick? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you’re guilty of being matchy-matchy.
Check out Lady Gaga below. Now don’t get me wrong I love houndstooth, but that’s a little too much.
Lady Gaga with matchy-matchy houndstooth outfit
Although the above example might be extreme, many women insist that their outfits match. Back in the day, a woman wouldn’t even think of leaving the house without her handbag matching her shoes, but today it really doesn’t matter. It’s perfectly OK to carry a red bag with black shoes.
Mary J. Blige in matchy-matchy brown & black outfit
News Flash Ladies: Everything doesn’t have to match! Complementary colors and textures give an outfit variety and style.
Quick Fix: Matchy-Matchy Style
I no longer consider myself matchy-matchy. I’m finding that mixing my clothes with different colors and patterns allows me to extend my wardrobe and makes it more exciting. It’s something you can do too. Got a red dress? Resist the temptation to pair it with red shoes. Try silver pumps or a strappy sandal instead. Have a print blouse, don’t try to match your skirt or slacks with the dominant color. Be bold and pair it with a neutral color.
I was in Nordstrom today trying on shoes and an older woman next to me was trying on patent leather burgundy shoes. I told her they looked good on her and she commented, “I don’t know if I have anything to match them.” I gave her the same spiel I’m giving you, “it doesn’t have to match.”
Crickets…
Are you old school matchy-matchy?
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