Fashion Colors & Styling Tips for November

Updated: October 27, 2024; estimated 10-15 minute read

November’s color palette carries a quiet richness, capturing both the last warm hues of fall and the cooler, grounding tones that prepare us for winter. This month is marked by colors that evoke the warmth of home gatherings, the texture of falling leaves, and the coziness of knitwear.

Sections in this guide:

1. Highlighting November’s Color Palette
2. Individual Color Profiles & Styling Tips
3. Integrating Colorful Accessories with Purse Straps
4. Wardrobe Essentials for November
5. Thanksgiving Outfits & Festive Looks
6. Transitioning from Fall to Winter

Highlighting November’s Color Palette

The key colors to embrace this November are Deep Plum, Forest Green, Charcoal, Chestnut Brown, and Mustard Yellow—each bringing its unique character to late autumn style.

• Deep Plum exudes sophistication and elegance, adding a hint of mystery to your wardrobe. This rich, jewel-toned hue is perfect for transitioning from daytime outfits to evening gatherings, whether it’s through a statement sweater, a cozy scarf, or a unique purse strap.
• Forest Green reflects the grounding elements of nature, adding an earthy balance to your wardrobe. This versatile color brings out the beauty of natural textures like wool or leather, making it ideal for outerwear or accessories that stand out in a neutral outfit.
• Charcoal is a staple shade for November, bridging the warm tones of autumn with the sleek minimalism of winter. Charcoal coats, pants, or chunky sweaters create a chic base for layering while balancing bolder colors like mustard or plum.
• Chestnut Brown embodies the rustic warmth and earthy charm that make autumn so beloved. This timeless color is especially suited for leather goods, from boots to crossbody bags and purse straps, adding depth and a sense of heritage to any look.
• Mustard Yellow captures the last burst of golden leaves before winter and adds a vibrant yet subdued pop of color to your fall wardrobe. This shade pairs beautifully with neutral tones, offering a playful accent through scarves, sweaters, or accessories like straps.

Embracing these colors allows you to curate a wardrobe that feels cozy yet refined, perfect for everything from work meetings to weekend outings. By layering these tones with neutrals or each other, you create depth and warmth, infusing your November style with seasonal charm and effortless elegance. And with colorful purse straps as accents, these shades can find unique expression in your everyday accessories, bringing a touch of autumn to every outfit.

Individual Color Profiles & Styling Tips

Embracing November’s key colors is all about finding balance, pairing rich, seasonal tones with versatile, timeless pieces. Below, we explore each color, offering style tips and ideas for seamlessly integrating these shades into your wardrobe—whether through clothing, accessories, or a unique purse strap that completes your look.

• Deep Plum: This regal hue brings an air of elegance and warmth, ideal for adding a bold yet sophisticated touch to your outfits. For daytime, try a deep plum sweater paired with neutral trousers or denim. This color shines in the evening, where a plum blouse or midi dress exudes confidence and style. A deep plum purse strap adds a pop of color to an otherwise neutral bag, offering a luxurious, jewel-toned detail that ties your look together seamlessly.
• Forest Green: Known for its earthy and grounding qualities, forest green feels both refreshing and classic in November wardrobes. Layer a forest green wool coat over neutrals for a look that feels fresh and natural, or opt for a cozy green sweater paired with jeans or tan trousers. This shade’s versatility also makes it perfect for accessories—consider a forest green purse strap to add a tasteful yet vibrant element to your handbag.
• Charcoal: Sleek and understated, charcoal is the ultimate versatile neutral that works with every color on the spectrum. This shade lends itself to structured pieces, like tailored blazers, wool trousers, and trench coats, creating an elegant silhouette. Charcoal is also ideal for knitwear, making it a great base for layering other fall colors. Add a charcoal strap to a black or brown bag to keep things monochromatic and effortlessly chic, giving a polished finish to any look.
• Chestnut Brown: This warm, inviting hue brings an unmistakable touch of fall to your wardrobe. Chestnut brown is particularly popular in leather goods, making it a natural choice for boots, belts, and bags. A classic chestnut brown handbag or a leather jacket will age beautifully over time, adding character to your collection. Consider a chestnut-colored purse strap to complement autumnal outfits or as a tonal addition to other earthy shades for a cozy, harmonious look.
• Mustard Yellow: As a vibrant contrast to the season’s deeper hues, mustard yellow adds warmth and a playful pop of color. Try a mustard sweater or scarf paired with dark denim or a neutral coat to keep the color grounded. This shade is also perfect for adding subtle accents, like jewelry or small accessories. A mustard-colored purse strap can instantly lift a bag’s look, giving a bright, seasonal twist that’s eye-catching without overwhelming your outfit.

Each of these colors offers unique styling possibilities for fall, whether as statement pieces or as understated accents. A purse strap in any of these shades can also serve as an unexpected focal point, enhancing your accessories and adding thoughtful, seasonal charm to every ensemble. Embracing these shades helps you capture the essence of November style—cozy, elegant, and effortlessly put together.

Integrating Colorful Accessories with Purse Straps

Accessories can make or break an outfit, and colorful purse straps are the perfect finishing touch to elevate your style with seasonal flair. November’s color palette offers a wide range of tones that work beautifully with both classic and modern looks, adding personality and interest through carefully chosen accents. Here’s how you can incorporate purse straps in Deep Plum, Forest Green, Charcoal, Chestnut Brown, and Mustard Yellow into your ensemble for a cohesive, elevated look.

• Deep Plum Purse Straps: A rich plum strap provides a bold, sophisticated pop against neutrals like beige, cream, or gray, transforming a simple handbag into an eye-catching accessory. Pair a deep plum strap with a sleek, black crossbody bag or neutral shoulder bag to add depth and elegance, especially if your outfit already incorporates jewel tones or a hint of dark red.
• Forest Green Purse Straps: This earthy shade brings a sense of calm and grounding to your outfit and is especially versatile when styled with autumn textures like wool, suede, or denim. A forest green purse strap can complement any leather bag—try it with chestnut brown for a nature-inspired vibe or black for a more understated look. Pairing this strap with cozy sweaters and chunky knits adds a subtle seasonal touch.
• Charcoal Purse Straps: Charcoal is the ultimate neutral that pairs seamlessly with almost any color or texture, making it ideal for versatile and timeless accessory options. Whether you’re carrying a structured bag or a casual tote, a charcoal strap offers an effortlessly sleek, monochromatic touch. Pair it with a gray or black bag for a polished look, or use it as a subtle contrast on warmer-toned bags for a modern, sophisticated twist.
• Chestnut Brown Purse Straps: This warm, inviting tone embodies autumn’s rustic charm and is particularly fitting for leather or canvas bags. Chestnut brown straps are ideal for adding a rich, classic accent to everyday handbags, whether you’re dressing up a black bag with a cozy touch or adding warmth to a neutral tote. For an extra seasonal feel, style this strap with an outfit that features earth tones like olive, beige, or cream.
• Mustard Yellow Purse Straps: Mustard yellow is perfect for a pop of color that feels bold yet grounded. A mustard strap can instantly transform a neutral bag into a statement piece without overwhelming your outfit. Style this strap with black, brown, or gray bags for a contrasting touch that enhances both color and personality, pairing well with layered autumn outfits in darker tones to create visual balance and vibrancy.

Coordinating purse straps in these seasonal colors adds functional versatility to your handbag and also makes a subtle style statement that ties together your entire look. Experimenting with these straps lets you refresh a favorite bag and add seasonal charm that reflects the essence of November.

Wardrobe Essentials for November

November’s transition from autumn to early winter calls for layering and textures that are as functional as they are stylish. Wardrobe essentials this month focus on pieces that blend warmth, comfort, and an autumnal aesthetic, with colors that reflect the season’s rich palette.

Here are some must-have items to create a versatile November wardrobe, complete with suggestions on pairing each essential with the perfect purse strap.

• Cozy Knit Sweaters: A well-crafted sweater is a November staple, providing warmth and texture to any look. Opt for chunky knits in shades like deep plum, forest green, or mustard yellow to bring seasonal color into your outfit. Pairing a sweater with a complementary purse strap—such as a deep plum strap for a neutral sweater or a mustard yellow strap for a charcoal or black sweater—adds a chic finishing touch.
• Tailored Trousers and Jeans: This season is perfect for structured trousers and dark-wash jeans that add polish to everyday wear while keeping you comfortable. Choose colors like charcoal, chestnut, or navy for a look that seamlessly blends into November’s muted tones. Adding a purse with a contrasting strap, such as forest green or deep plum, gives your outfit a modern edge and a touch of color without compromising elegance.
• Layered Outerwear: A stylish coat is essential for the chilly November air, whether it’s a long wool coat, a fitted trench, or a tailored blazer. Choose coats in classic colors like charcoal, black, or chestnut to serve as versatile outer layers. For an added pop, attach a purse strap in forest green or mustard yellow to bring in autumn’s vibrancy, making your coat ensemble feel thoughtfully styled from top to bottom.
• Leather and Suede Boots: Nothing says fall like a pair of well-loved boots. Chestnut or black leather boots are classic options that go with nearly any outfit, and they pair beautifully with cozy, layered looks. Complement your boots with a purse strap in a similar tone, like chestnut brown, or opt for a rich accent color, like deep plum or forest green, to add depth and interest to your ensemble.
• Scarves and Hats: Accessories like scarves and hats are ideal for adding color and warmth. Plaid or solid wool scarves in colors like charcoal, burgundy, or forest green echo the season’s tones and complete any outfit with ease. To balance your look, coordinate these accessories with a matching purse strap—mustard yellow or burgundy, for example, create a unified and cozy appearance that elevates any autumnal outfit.

Investing in these essentials and using colorful purse straps as accents, creates a November wardrobe that combines both style and practicality. Layering in purse straps of varying tones adds personality and adaptability to your look, giving each ensemble a cohesive yet distinctive appeal. With these essentials, you’ll be ready to embrace the season’s chilly air and rich colors with effortless elegance.

Thanksgiving Outfits & Festive Looks

Thanksgiving is a special time to celebrate with loved ones, and choosing the perfect outfit can add to the warmth and joy of the occasion. From cozy family gatherings to more formal dinners, this holiday is all about finding that balance between comfort and style.

Incorporating festive colors and rich textures brings out the season’s best, with versatile accessories like purse straps helping you to add unique and seasonal flair.

• Cozy and Casual Gatherings: For a relaxed Thanksgiving with family and friends, comfort is key. Think cozy knits in warm tones like mustard yellow or chestnut brown, paired with dark jeans or tailored leggings. A simple crossbody or tote bag can be instantly elevated with a deep plum or forest green strap, adding a pop of seasonal color that ties your look together. This relaxed, approachable outfit keeps you comfortable while showcasing a festive, put-together style.
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  Dressy Dinner Parties: If your Thanksgiving plans are more formal, opt for a midi dress or skirt in elegant colors like burgundy or charcoal gray. Rich fabrics like velvet or silk give an elevated feel, and pairing them with boots or heels in complementary shades creates a polished, cohesive look. For an extra touch, add a contrasting purse strap—perhaps in a soft cognac or deep plum—to a sleek clutch or handbag, bringing a tasteful hint of fall colors into your outfit.
• Layers with Texture: For a more versatile look that transitions well between casual and dressy, try a chic, layered ensemble. A forest green or charcoal blazer over a silk blouse in cognac or mustard tones creates an outfit that’s both warm and sophisticated. Complete the look with tailored trousers or a mid-length skirt, and add a purse with a strap in a complementary shade, like a mustard yellow or chestnut brown, to bring warmth and cohesiveness to your ensemble.
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  Outdoor Celebrations: For Thanksgiving spent outdoors—like a harvest-themed event or a bonfire gathering—layering is essential. Start with a cozy sweater and add a thick scarf, wool coat, or puffer jacket in colors like charcoal or forest green for both warmth and style. A bag with a deep plum or forest green strap adds personality to your layered look, providing a cohesive element that brings out autumnal colors while staying practical for cooler temperatures.
• Touch of Sparkle: For those looking to add a hint of festivity, incorporating a little shimmer is the way to go. Consider a blouse or accessory in metallic tones—think subtle gold, bronze, or even a soft sheen in gray—paired with rich, solid colors like burgundy or cognac. A purse strap in a luxurious shade, like deep plum or chestnut, can ground the sparkle while adding sophistication to your outfit.

Thanksgiving outfits are all about capturing the warmth, richness, and comfort of the season. With the addition of purse straps in these autumn-inspired shades, you can add a touch of thoughtful detail that elevates each look, creating a cohesive and festive ensemble perfect for celebrating the holiday in style. Whether you’re keeping it cozy or dressing up for a formal dinner, these options ensure you’ll be both stylish and seasonally inspired for Thanksgiving festivities.

Transitioning from Fall to Winter

As November gives way to December, fashion naturally shifts from warm autumnal tones to cooler, deeper winter hues and cozier, heavier layers. Transitioning your wardrobe from fall to winter is all about versatility and layering, incorporating elements that blend both seasons seamlessly. Purse straps can be a great way to add subtle hints of seasonal color and texture, helping your bags and accessories evolve with the changing weather.

• Layered Basics: Building a strong foundation of layered basics, like turtlenecks, long-sleeve tees, and versatile cardigans, helps you adjust to fluctuating temperatures. Shades like forest green, charcoal, and cognac are perfect transitional colors that work in both fall and winter palettes. Pair a bag with a charcoal or deep plum strap to add a wintery touch, especially when layering up with scarves, coats, and gloves in complementary tones.
• Adding Winter Textures: As winter sets in, heavier fabrics like wool, cashmere, and faux fur become key for both warmth and style. A wool coat in charcoal or forest green adds a sophisticated, winter-ready feel to your wardrobe. Adding a purse strap in a rich color like burgundy or deep plum complements these textures beautifully, creating a polished, seasonal contrast that works especially well with wintery fabrics and darker tones.
• Warm Color Pops with Cold-Weather Gear: Transitioning to winter doesn’t mean losing autumn’s warmth. Pops of color through accessories like scarves, hats, and bag straps can keep the vibrancy of fall alive. A mustard yellow or chestnut strap on a bag, paired with a gray or black winter coat, brings subtle warmth to cold-weather outfits, maintaining a seasonal touch even as the palette darkens.
• Winterizing Shoes and Accessories: Leather and suede ankle boots, as well as knee-highs, are perfect footwear for bridging fall and winter. Complement these with leather or fabric purse straps in rich, earthy tones like chestnut or cognac for an outfit that flows with the shift in seasons. For added versatility, try using a purse strap that incorporates both warm and cool tones, like burgundy with gray accents, which can tie together your look with seamless elegance.
• Adapting Fall Colors to Holiday Looks: As December approaches, deeper tones like plum, forest green, and burgundy can double as festive colors in holiday outfits. Pairing a bag with a burgundy or forest green strap over an elegant winter coat or holiday sweater adds a refined, cohesive look. The result is an outfit that embodies the spirit of both fall’s richness and winter’s sophistication, with a nod to the celebratory colors of the holiday season.

The fall-to-winter transition is about finding that balance between the warm, inviting tones of autumn and the crisp, cool shades of winter. With thoughtfully chosen purse straps in colors that bridge both seasons, you can effortlessly style your look for the colder months while still keeping the spirit of fall alive.

Related guides and inspiration

• Customize with Interchangeable Straps
• Holiday Handbag Hacks