A scarf, a handbag and pair of booties that can be worn together is an easy way to pull together an outfit for Autumn. That’s why I call the combination a “complement”. Add the scarf-bag-bootie complement to the simplest of ensembles and it instantly adds flare, personality and pop to your look. 

I’ve created two complements around different colour palettes and dress codes. Adding in simple pieces that provide the backdrop to the complement is all that’s left to complete the outfit. 

Casual Black, White & Metallic SBB Complement

I’ve chosen a black and white patterned scarf, black studded crossbody bag, and — as a nod to this season’s Space Age trend — silver Dr. Martens boots. Wear this complement over a long sleeved t-shirt or scoop neck blouse with jeans or cropped pants. Wear it over a casual dress. Or a V-neck sweater and denim skirt. 

Dressy Earthtones SBB Complement

I’ve chosen a lace printed scarf in spice tones, an on-trend, small animal printed bag, and high heeled colour blocked booties. Wear this complement over a blouse and pencil skirt for the office. Wear it over a sheath dress. Wear it over a fitted or oversized sweater and tapered trousers. Or dress it down with a tee and jeans. 

Choose a scarf-bag-bootie complement that’s in line with your colour and style preferences. Choose solids, patterns or colour blocked items. Some complements will be dressy and others will be casual. 

The complement can also be thought of as a small capsule because the items work together, AND because they can be worn with different “backdrop” outfits. Pack a scarf-bag-bootie complement for short trips and merely change out the backdrop outfit each day. You’ll have an assortment of pulled together looks for your trip that will probably fit into a carry-on size bag.