An outfit can be put together in nearly endless combinations, but no outfit would be complete without the right shoes and the right handbag.  Here are some stylish shoe and bag combinations:

From Left, Mango Croc-Effect Tote ($80) and Enzo Call Me Pump ($99) // Milly Kelly Purse ($435) and Shilo Pump ($305) // MK Jetset Messenger ($228) and J. Renee Wedge ($90)

One. When wearing a nude-to-you heel, you have as many bag choices as you can dream up.  The simplest of these, however, is to pair a lighter-colored shoe with a darker bag in the same color family.  This is also a good opportunity to carry a colored bag, like this kelly green woven satchel ($60) or this Botkier coral tote (on sale for $234).

One word of caution on buying nude-colored shoes: Don’t buy them too light.  Even if you’re fair-skinned, buy your shoes in a tan or taupe color, otherwise it can make you look too pale.  The ones above are a good example, but I like these as well. 

If you are African-American, try a chocolate brown shoe or, as a commenter suggests below, a store with a wide variety of “nude” colors like Nine West.  And if you just don’t like taupe, try tortoise instead.

Two. Many women retire their black pumps in the summer, but if you intend to keep wearing yours, you can lighten up the look with the right handbag.  Need a cheaper pair of round toe pumps?  I own these J.CREW, but these Ann Taylor shoes are good too.

I chose the colorblock Milly satchel because I loved the mix of grey, black, white and blush.  If you’re looking for the same look for less, try this simple flap purse.  I also love (LOVE!) this simple two-tone purse from Mango. And if colorblock isn’t for you, pair your black pumps with a grey handbag instead.

Three.  Low, red wedges are one of my summertime staples.  I wear them with navy dresses, black and white dresses and trousers.  They’re more comfortable than heels, but still dressy, and they add a pop of color to my outfit.  Need a cheaper pair?  These Bandolino wedges should do the trick.

I like them with this navy messenger, but you could also choose a cognac or gray bag.

More combinations for casual days and evenings out, after the jump…

From Left, Dooney & Bourke Crossbody ($298) and Edelman Milly Flats ($179) // Asos Metal Tip satchel ($125) and Madewell Slingback Sandal ($60) // Cork Invitation Clutch ($98) and Rachel Roy Pavla ($350)

One. A gold flat is my go-to commute, travel and casual days shoe.  Matches everything and almost always looks chic.  If you’re looking for a less expensive option, try these simple flats or these metallic t-straps for a lighter look.

 A metallic shoe offers you the opportunity to add color.  I love this bright orange bag, but this vibrant cobalt is nice too.  Yellow purses are also hot this season, and this $135 DKNY bag is sublime.

Two. I adore these sandals with a mix of cognac, seafoam and navy.  They would look so great with some navy shorts and a white eyelet top.  And the price isn’t too shabby at $60.

This bag was chosen for its light color and fun hardware.  It’s a great travel bag or summer I’m-going-to-be-out-of-the-house-all-day bag.  (It also comes in black.)  I also like this darker structured messenger.

Three.  Lastly, we have a combination for going out on the town, which would also be good for weddings.  I love this cork clutch (I own its last season version.) for its lightness and versatility.  It goes with every spring cocktail dress and sundress I own.  This cork box clutch with the tortoise clasp rocks, as well, and this $42 clutch is fairly similar.

These sandals are modern, chic and versatile.  I love the braided and metal details.  These studded Guess heels are also nice at $120, and I like these simpler, more classic mid-heel pumps for $42. And I couldn’t resist these fashion-forward, mixed-media sandals for under-$100.