COLUMN: Accessories make all the difference when shopping
In the real estate business it is often said that the value of a property is influenced by the location. In the fashion world there is a similar theory. The value of an outfit is influenced by the accessories you pair it with.
Imagine if you will, the famous opening scene of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Without Audrey’s sparkly tiara, strands of pearls, and oversized sunglasses … we’re left with the scene of a girl in a black dress holding a doughnut. Not so epic.
A great accessory can not only make an outfit come together, it can also add interest, personality and shape to an otherwise simple ensemble. Pairing a sweater with a skinny belt at the waist adds curves to a boyish figure. A great pair of heels can make legs look longer and more shapely. A long necklace can elongate a otherwise short neck. The list goes on.
Adding accessories to your wardrobe is also a great way to update your pieces without clearing out your bank account. A few great accessories can double your wardrobe by giving you different options of wearing one piece.
Take for example a basic gray sweater. Wear it with a red belt at the waist, a scarf with graphic-print, or an antique brooch, and you have three very different looks from a basic piece.
This fall, minimalist styles ruled the runways, giving fashionistas a perfect blank canvas on which to accessorize to their little hearts’ content. For those of you who aren’t big on accessories, now would the perfect time to experiment. Here are some of the noteworthy accessories for fall:
Brooches: Although 20-somethings don’t usually invest in brooches (as often as your grandmother might), they are a lot more wearable than one might think. Add a brooch to a blazer or a vest to add a little feminine touch to this fall’s menswear look. Vintage shops are a great place to find unique brooches.
Boots: No brainer, right? Boots are functional during the cold winter months and they’re also a great way to change the mood of any outfit. This season there are three styles to look for: biker, bootie and peep-toe. Wear them with thick knee-high socks, skinny jeans, or leggings.
Classic Handbags: No more Mary Poppins-sized bags. This season think sleek and simple! Look for bright hues and textures. The mix of lace and leather is also trendy for accessories this season. A lace/leather clutch is the perfect way to add a little edge to your wardrobe.
Ladylike Gloves: Another ‘50s-inspired style. Experiment with texture, pattern, and color. They are great for formal events and make everyday outfits a little rock-chic. These gloves are less chunky than regular wool ones. Perfect for those of us who need to use our hands when we’re out-and-about … but aren’t fans of frostbite!
Socks: (ankle and knee-high) Most of us don’t view socks as an accessory, however, this season socks have become a little less boring and little more trendy. Ankle socks are being worn with pumps (very nerd-chic) and knee-highs are paired with long boots. Experiment with colors and textures. Try a pair of thick ribbed knee-highs with some leather boots, or lace ankle socks with pumps.
Pearl Jewelry: The key to keeping this trend fresh and young is to not overdo it! Try a long necklace with pearl accents. Mix-and-match pearl bracelets with metallic or brightly colored ones. Keep it fun, not stuffy.
When shopping for accessories, prioritize. Before going shopping spend some time taking inventory of your wardrobe and make a list of what you need versus what you want. This is a good way to save money, and to avoid ending up with multiple items that are similar. Two black handbags are useful, 20 are a waste of closet space.
Costume jewelry is generally inexpensive (thank you Chanel) and the easiest way to personalize an outfit. Mix-and-match jewelry pieces to avoid looking too structured … jewelry sets are usually not good idea.
Most importantly, have fun with it! Accessories allow you to be creative and make an outfit yours. Stocking up on a few fun accessories is a simple and inexpensive way to update your wardrobe, and take an outfit to the next level. After all, what would the little black dress be without a killer clutch, a pair of pumps, or a great cocktail ring?
– Jimena Herrero has studied fashion for many years. For questions or comments about her column, e-mail her at
jimena.h@aggiemail.usu.edu