Ever wonder how some girls can make the most basic outfits still look really good? It could be jeans and a t-shirt and they exude style.
While some of us would blame it on their fantastic jeans, or perhaps the color they wore- there is another factor in play.
Here’s the secret to looking great in even the most basic clothes, something that the world’s most stylish girls have mastered: the art of accessorizing.
“If Clothes make the man, Accessories make the woman.” - Anne Fogarty, Wife Dressing
Putting the right accessories together is a basic fashion skill that separates well-dressed people from the blase’. The best part? You can find incredible accessories at any budget, so it’s a great way to stretch your wardrobe and save money.
How to Accessorize
Any outfit can go from boring, to stunning with the right accoutrements. Here’s a few tips to try in 2009.
Do:
Large earrings can be a great way to dress up a casual or formal outfit. They draw attention to your face and add sparkle. Whether 80’s door knockers are your thing, or you prefer chunky faux diamond studs, a statement earring can always add drama to an outfit.
Long necklaces are a hot trend. They create long vertical lines which make you look taller and leaner! Have fun with long beaded necklaces or long chains with But beware, one chunky beaded necklace is enough. Too many and you risk looking like you just got back from Mardi Gras - not so cute.
Be careful with proportions. If you’re wearing an outfit that is big and voluminous, scale back on the accessories. If you’re wearing something sleeker, you can go a little bigger and bolder with a chunky cocktail ring or big, bright handbag.
Add a belt. Add a wide belt over a flowy dress, or use a brightly colored belt over a black cardigan and white tank to add interest to the outfit and emphasize your curves.
The more basic the outfit, the bolder your accessories can be. Amazing outfits are all about balance. For example, pair a simple tee shirt and jeans combo with a pair of polka dot flats, a long sparkly pendant necklace and a few layered bangles in different types of metals. Accessories can add complexity and interest to a plain look, balancing everything out.
Don’t wear too many accessories at once. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing, and you don’t want to resemble a kid playing dress up in mom’s closet. Exercise a little bit of restraint with accessories - if you have statement earrings on, don’t add bangles, a cocktail ring, and a scarf. Keep it to one or two main pieces.
Try layering your bracelets. Stacked bangles are a hot trend this winter. Wear a bunch on one arm to easily add sparkle to an outfit.
Buy accessories that convey a part of your personality. This is so important, and it’s also so much fun. When you buy accessories, go for pieces that you’re attracted to - even better if they have a personal meaning to you. I always tend to favor green, because they match my eyes and make me feel mischievous.
Don’t be afraid to mix materials. Mixing up your jewelry creates a fabulous vintage look, so don’t be afraid to throw things together and see what happens. Just Try it. You might come up with some amazing combos!
Add pops of color. If your outfit is plain (black and white, black and grey, etc.), create a pop of color with jewelry, a scarf, a handbag, or a bright shoe. Remember that outfits don’t have to MATCH, but they do have to GO - keep things in similar color families (warm colors or cool colors), and you’ll generally be fine.
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Sources: College Fashion
