Simple Ways to Accessorise

I love accessories of all types and have several drawers dedicated to costume jewellery and handbags. Not to mention my wine rack full of scarves! I even have my own online accessories boutique.

In the current (August) issue of Aspire, my fashion column is about the art of accessorising, so this blog post is based upon that along with a few additions.

Accessories are designed to add detail and finishing
touches while complimenting the wearer’s personality and wardrobe. They can
change the whole look or mood of an outfit and can be as important as the
clothes themselves. Sometimes more so.

Accessories catch the eye and can be
used as a focal point to draw attention towards, (or away from), certain areas.
A statement necklace will draw the eye upwards if the wearer has a great new hairstyle.
A ring or bracelet will ensure an amazing manicure gets all the attention. A
belt will of course draw the eye to the waist.

Accessorising a Simple Monochrome Outfit with a Statemen Pendant (available in my boutique).

Rose Gold Dragonfly Pendant (similar)

A well-chosen new piece is the best way of embracing or
dipping a toe into a new fashion trend. Khaki can be difficult to wear head to
toe and may be a one-season wonder. A scarf in that colour proves the wearer is
aware of summer’s hottest hue but isn’t a slave to fashion.

Outfit: White tee, skinny jeans, snake print wedges and khaki Scarf, available at Lizzy O

Pattern mixing is
popular currently too. Combining a striped top with floral trousers may be one
step too far, but a floral scarf or flowery necklace would add enough contrast
to make the stripes more interesting. As would a leopard print scarf or a polka
dot one. The possibilities are endless.

Combining Stripes and Florals

Lace Shift Dress with Leopard Print Scarf (available in my boutique)

Accessories work wonders with wardrobe staples and
will update favourite outfits simply and easily. A pair of dark skinny jeans worn with a fitted
white tee shirt would look very different when teamed with a pair of flat
brogues, a scarf and a preppy cross body satchel than they would when accessorised
with a pair of killer heels, a statement necklace and a dainty clutch.

Accessories should reflect the wearer’s character. There
are no rules.

But it is worth considering
skin tone and hair colour. Does silver jewellery suit more than yellow gold, or
is the soft warmth of rose gold the ideal tone. If mustard yellow or cobalt blue are
favourites but not flattering worn next to the face, avoid scarves and
necklaces and opt for a handbag, a pair of shoes or a bracelet.

Double wrap bracelet in shades of silver (similar)

An unexpected accessory can make the biggest impact.
Leopard
print shoes with a demure black dress, a pair of chandelier earrings with a
chunky jumper, a bright orange handbag with a blue and green patterned top.
All
add interest, texture, colour and individuality.