Trendy Accessories: Wearing Rattan Beyond Summer

Rattan is one of the easiest trendy accessories to keep wearing after summer. Treat it as a neutral: the beige, tan and caramel tones sit well with wool, leather and velvet, and the woven texture adds depth to heavy layers.

The rule is contrast. Pair a woven bag, belt or pair of earrings with a dense, soft or glossy fabric and it looks chosen, not left over from vacation.

Section 01

Why does rattan work in cooler months?

Rattan reads as summery because it looks light and open. Winter fabrics are the opposite: closed, thick and often dark. Put the two together and each makes the other easier to see.

Through the lens of evidence-based design, I'd think about texture before color. A coarse weave next to smooth wool changes how both surfaces catch light, so the outfit has more going on without adding another color.

If you are wondering what accessories are trending right now, woven pieces with structure and mixed materials are a steady part of the answer. Trend lists change quickly, so judge a piece by whether it fits your closet, not by the label.

Section 02

Which colors go with rattan in each season?

Fall

Rust, mustard, olive and burnt orange share rattan's warm undertone. A woven tote with a cardigan and ankle boots looks natural because nothing fights the bag.

Winter

Emerald, burgundy and navy make the warm tan stand out. Try a woven clutch with a velvet blazer, or a rattan belt over a wool dress.

Spring

Blush, mint and lavender echo the organic texture. A woven crossbody with a floral blouse and a light trench is an easy transition outfit.

Section 03

How do you style rattan for different looks?

• Classic: a rattan handbag with gold hardware beside a camel coat, heeled ankle boots and pearl earrings or a silk scarf.
• Bohemian: a rattan belt cinched over a long cardigan and maxi dress, with flowy fabrics and earthy tones.
• Minimal: a black turtleneck, tailored trousers and loafers, with a rattan tote as the single textured piece.
• Edgy: a rattan clutch with a moto jacket, jeans and heeled boots. The leather makes the weave look deliberate.

For a bag that suits several of these, a structured shape with leather trim is the safest pick. If you like straw bags in general, this guide to wearing straw bags beyond the beach covers similar ground.

Section 04

Which rattan accessories are worth looking for?

Several rattan styles show up repeatedly in current accessory trends:

• Structured bags with boxy shapes and leather or gold accents.
• Wide woven belts for cinching dresses, sweaters or coats. They fit the broader interest in statement belts and pendant necklaces as ways to finish an outfit.
• Earrings and bangles that mix rattan with resin or metal, useful fashion accessories jewelry for trendy accessories for women who want something light.
• Mixed-material pieces with suede or velvet, which look made for cooler weather.

Classic woven totes, crossbodies, simple rattan earrings and clutches stay useful regardless of trends.

Section 05

How do you make rattan look right with outerwear?

1. Layer textures. A woven clutch against velvet or a bag beside a wool coat gives contrast.
2. Choose darker trims. Dark leather, metallic accents or jewel-toned details link the piece to fall and winter palettes.
3. Carry it with a coat. A structured rattan bag works with a trench or long wool coat and looks polished but relaxed.
4. Add warm textured accessories nearby, such as a knit scarf or leather gloves, so the bag does not look isolated.
5. Buy classic shapes in neutral colors, since they move across seasons most easily.

Shiny or sparkly pieces pair differently with a natural weave. For party outfits, see glittery accessories for winter party wear. For a lighter, printed take, animal motif accessories follow the same rule of one focal piece.

Section 06

How do you care for rattan in cold or wet weather?

Keep rattan out of rain and snow, since water can warp it and stain the weave. When you are not using a piece, store it somewhere cool and dry, away from direct sun, and stuff bags with tissue paper so they hold their shape. Check the care label on any coated or mixed-material piece.

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Filed under Accessory Trends