Accessorizing really doesn’t have to be difficult. Or intimidating. Or expensive. I promise. My favorite part of getting dressed is choosing those subtle little extras to really bring the outfit together.
Pairing a simple, classic string of diamonds, a decorative ring or printed scarf with the right outfit can make a pair of jeans and a plain white t-shirt look like a thought out, planned ahead ensemble.
And the best part: It’s easy!
Over-Accessorizing: Less is More
Remember the girl you saw last weekend? The one edging you out at the bar wearing the large print floral skirt, bejeweled flouncy top, patterned tights, tribal necklace, studded booties a waist length tribal necklace, giant hoop earrings, four cocktail rings and metallic clutch?
Yes. Her.
She was over-accessorized to the max. Rude bar etiquette aside, she was just doing way too much.
Of course, all the purses and scarves hanging on your hooks are cute. So are the necklaces, rings and earrings in your jewelry box. Your hats? Those are phenomenal. But when choosing from all your fantastic and worthy accessories, the key is to be selective.
Your cute vintage pendant necklace can’t be seen if you pair it with your new Bedouin scarf. Scarves and necklaces are usually pretty redundant. Keeping like accessories and busy patterns to a minimum will take you a long way.
If your top has sewn on visual interest of any sort, nix the necklace. The two patterns will only compete for attention. If your earrings are pretty loud on their own, pair them with a more subdued necklace. If you’re not wearing much jewelry at all, choose a big huge cocktail ring or an ornate clutch.
But, remember the other girl wearing a plain black dress with black pumps and a black wristlet?
Under-Accessorizing: “Nice… umm… nail polish.”
While you don’t want to be a walking accessory boutique, you also don’t want to be the gal that owns one matching necklace and earring set.
Accessories are a fun, cheap way to make a wardrobe look updated, even if you haven’t had as much cash to spend as you’d like. I’ve gotten compliments on five-year-old outfits just by throwing on a colorful scarf and a pair of thrift store earrings.
Stores like Forever 21 and H&M have diverse, cheap, cute accessories. You can pick up a pair of earrings or a necklace for well under ten bucks. Scarves are usually around $7 or $8. Purses, clutches, cross-body messengers or totes can run anywhere form under $10 on sale to maybe $30. And, you’d be surprised how many fun accessories are waiting in stores where you might not regularly shop.
If you’ve already great basics like jeans, sweaters, blazers or cardigans but you feel like you’ve worn them a million times, adding a new accessory can bring your favorite seersucker jacket back up to speed.
Also, if you’re not into louder styles or patterns, but would like to take a risk, trying out a giant ring, busy necklace, pattered scarf or flowery headband is a good way to try out a new look without spending a lot of money.
Accessories all around!
Whichever route you choose to take, just remember to keep it simple. If you’re feeling a little plain with your outfit, don a few accessories to add more excitement. If your outfit is out of this world on it’s own, go with a simple necklace and studded earrings. It’s all about balance.
Alexa Thomason is a graduate student in Chicago who spends her free time browsing vintage stores, traveling, and creating art. She contributes at http://www.artroommelody.com - blogging about creative inspirations and trends. Keep up with her on twitter: @lexathomason
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Great post. Lots of helpful tips. Thanks.
Wow, this is some really great advice that I could use since I’m usually guilty of under-accessorizing. I do like to take my time with clothes but by the time I’m done I don’t pay attention to these little extras anymore (that, like you emphasized, can make a world of difference) and the occasional bracelet or scarf are the only things that make the cut.
The details add the extra pop of interest to an outfit and though it may take more time to put it together, it just looks more complete with a few accessories. =)