6 Matching Dress-and-Bag Combos That Are Anything But Naff

last updated 2 October 2018

Matching accessories have always been a thing. In the late ’80s and early ’90s, the thought of buying bags and shoes that weren’t (quite literally) cut from the same cloth would rarely cross one’s mind. Though the matchy-matchy trend went out of fashion for a bit, fast-forward to today and we certainly see the appeal. After all, we can barely muster enough energy to get out of bed in the mornings, let alone set aside precious time that could otherwise be spent sleeping to carefully select mismatched add-ons.

So yes, it’s little wonder that Kate Middleton, the busy bee that she is, takes comfort in coordinating accessories. And it seems other women share the same sentiment, as we’ve noticed matchy-matchy buys are creeping into the outfit DNA of our favourite fashion girls.

We initially dismissed it as a one-off, but when we clocked several fashion month showgoers employing the same trick, we knew we were onto something. Matching your bag to your dress is fast becoming the season’s styling hack of note, and we’re on board.

Be it the exact same print or fabric, or simply a complementary hue, hold your bag up to your dress and, if it blends in, you’re on the right track.

The best part? There are plenty of matching dresses and bags to be had for every occasion and budget, meaning everyone can get in on the action.

From It prints to rather extra feather detailing, keep scrolling to shop our edit of the best outfit-simplifying duos on offer. Then start thinking about what you’re going to do with all that extra time on your hands…

Zara

Snakeskin Print Shirtdress

This frock will look the after-dark part with a berry lip and side-swept hair.

Zara

Contrasting Crossbody Bag

Finish off your ensemble with black barely there strap heels.

Ganni

Dainty Georgette Wrap Dress

Try layering this dress over a printed tee and cropped jeans for a downtime spin.

Ganni

Edison Purse

Offset this zingy hue with blush, beige and denim.

Mulberry

Eimear Dress Bright Pink Daisies

From the fluted sleeves to the A-line skirt, this dress is easily the most flattering thing you’ll ever own.

Mulberry

Small Winslow Chocolate Brown Embroidered Bag

We can’t imagine anything chicer than this top-handle arm candy.

Oasis

Animal High-Neck Dress

Jump on the leopard-print bandwagon with this frugal frock.

Oasis

Leather Leoni Leopard Clutch

Try varying the size of your motifs to make your ensemble even more interesting.

Staud

Moore Feather Trim Dress

This is not for the fashion faint of heart. Pair it with minimal footwear—a pair of block heels, for example.

Staud

Nic Patent Leather Tote

Just think how cool this will look with straight-leg jeans and a checked blazer.

Chloé

Mini Shirtdress

We’ve never wanted to be part of the #ChloéGirls movement more.

Chloé

Small Tess Bag

We’ve had Faye, Drew and Nile—now meet Chloé’s Tess bag.

Now that’s your dress and bag sorted; it’s time to talk shoes.

Explore More:

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s Deputy Editor and has over fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.