The art of accessories

Many women spend a lot of time considering what outfit they’re going to wear each day. Should I wear these bottoms, and if so, what top goes best with them? Or would I rather wear this top, and if I do, should I go with a skirt or a pair of jeans? Considering what garments you’re going to choose – and how they complement each other and your own personal style – is an important part of getting dressed – but it’s not the only part. Women’s fashion accessories play a huge role in your overall look as well. So, to that end, here’s a guide to the art of accessorizing:

Handpick your handbag

Perhaps the most prominent accessory in most women’s outfits is the handbag. After all, even if you’re just carrying a small clutch to an event, you have to have something to hold your cellphone, wallet and lipstick – and most little black dresses don’t come with pockets. That said, choosing a fashionable handbag that you can wear on a daily basis is a bit complicated. You need to consider both function and style. Do you require one that’s big enough to fit your laptop and other work-related essentials? If so, a tote or shoulder bag may work best. Or do you need one that’s comfortable for wearing all day long while running errands? In that case, opt for a cross-body bag instead.

Then, consider the color and material. Choose neutral colors to get the most flexibility, or opt for something bright and seasonal, like cranberry or pumpkin orange, to keep your look on trend. For spring and summer, a straw bag can look stylish and appropriate, while patent leather may be better suited to fall and winter.

Jazz it up with jewelry

Jewelry is another way most women sprinkle accessories into their ensembles. The best part about jewelry? There are so many options, you can easily choose styles you adore that look great with your clothing. Earrings, necklaces and bracelets all come in almost unlimited shapes, sizes and metals. Opt for gold fashion jewelry this season to make your outfit pop, or mix metals to make a stylish statement.

If you love big necklaces, pair a bib with your favorite sheath dress for work or with a simple tee on the weekend. Are bracelets more your speed? Layer different styles and metals for a fun look, and finish up with a fashionable watch. In short, jewelry is your chance to have fun and let your personality shine through in your style.

Top off your look with other accessories

From belts and scarves to hats and tights, there are a variety of other accessories you can use to add some pizzazz to your outfits. This fall, hats are particularly trendy, so don’t be afraid to top off your look with a fedora, cloche or beanie – whatever style suits you best. Or, finish your autumn look with a scarf in bright colors to stay warm and stylish at the same time. Have fun with these other accessories, and don’t be afraid to try something new!

Coordinate – don’t match

After you have a good grasp on the accessories available, it’s a good idea to understand exactly how to wear them with one another. A good rule of thumb? Your accessories should coordinate – but they shouldn’t match exactly. Choosing shoes, a handbag and a scarf all in the same color can look a bit too matchy-matchy. Instead, choose colors and fabrics that complement each other. So, if you’re wearing brown leather boots, then a tan bag and an aubergine scarf would coordinate well with them.

Find a theme

Especially when pairing jewelry with other accessories, there’s one great way you can ensure everything you choose goes well together: find a theme. Consider different styles, like Boho or classic, and pick jewelry and other accessories that fit in with that theme. A more Bohemian vibe, for instance, could call for bangle bracelets and a hobo bag. You’ll notice your look is more cohesive when everything fits into a particular style.

Keep things simple

While accessories are the perfect way to add visual interest to any look, it is possible to go a bit overboard. Layering a hat, a scarf, tons of jewelry and other accessories can start to look a bit busy. Instead, choose one focal accessory – like an interesting hat or a vibrant bag – and keep everything else relatively simple. That way, you’ll look stylish and put-together without overdoing it. Another way to decide how many accessories to wear? Use the occasion for guidance – a formal event may call for smaller and more simple jewelry than a lunch with friends.

Show off your personality

There are no hard and fast rules about accessorizing, other than to simply have fun with it and wear items you love. Accessories, perhaps more than any other piece of clothing, allow you to really explore your personal style, so take some risks!