Do you envy the woman flaunting a polished appearance? The woman who seems to be perfectly put together; down to the last detail? It doesn’t take a fashion stylist to create these looks. Any woman can update her wardrobe with accessories that play double duty: aesthetics and functionality.
There’s a reason why women adore jewelry, sunglasses, and purses. Yes, these items are fashionable, but often their purpose is just as useful. Some accessories are necessary components of an outfit for this purpose. By definition, an accessory is an item that enhances a garment or an outfit. More than just aesthetics, here are a few essential fashion accessories you should add to your wardrobe.
Contents
- 1 Jewelry
- 2 Purse
- 3 Tights
- 4 Belt
- 5 Sunglasses
- About the author: Samantha Rose blogs on fashion, music and the vibrant life of a college student at www.apetiterose.blogspot.com and is an editor for Brown University’s fashion magazine “Unhemmed.” She contributes to a number of websites, including Catalogs.com, covering the ìcollege beatî with a fresh perspective.
1 Jewelry
Jewelry includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. These key accessories are the finishing touch of an outfit. Colors, textures, and materials play an important part in highlighting the pieces you’re wearing. Sparkling dangly earrings are elegant paired with a little black dress and a fancy up-do. A bold turquoise necklace complements a neutral colored suit. A stack of wood bracelets adds a touch of bohemian chic to floral prints. A little antique ring or romantic charm bracelet carries the story of a time past. The best part about jewelry is the fact that it’s as diverse as the women who don it.
2 Purse
How else do you plan on toting around every item that you own? A purse can fit a cell phone, keys, wallet, makeup, and first aid kit: daily essentials. There are a variety of purse types in order to best fit your needs. Large messenger bags are great for students carrying a few notebooks to class. No woman should head out on a Friday night without a small crossbody bag. Worn close to the body, a crossbody bag keeps your items safe without the bulk. If you aren’t fond of lugging your belongings around, at least own one medium sized purse in black, red, or taupe. This purse will last you for years and suit most occasions.
3 Tights
While not everyone is comfortable in hosiery, those who are should wear tights more often. Legs look longer and leaner in the right tights. Not to mention that they are great for women who aren’t comfortable showing a lot of skin. Tights are made of different materials; each better suited for a certain season. Sheer black is a fashion staple year round. White is making a statement as a fresh bold color in the winter months. All sorts of patterns and colors can be worn to spice up an outfit. It’s not surprising that many women don’t feel that their outfit is complete without tights.
4 Belt
Belts should be incorporated into almost every outfit. No longer are belts used solely to hold up trousers. Large, statement making pieces are great for tying in multiple elements. A flaming red brings a pop of color while thick metal buckles add Western flair. Small braided belts accentuate a thin waist. Don’t be afraid to try on different belts in the morning with your outfit. It’s amazing how a belt can drastically effect your look.
5 Sunglasses
Not only do sunglasses prevent sunlight and high-energy visible light from damaging our eyes, but they are fashionable to boot. Healthcare professionals recommend wearing eye protection when in harsh light. Sunglasses can even be bought with prescription lenses for those who usually wear glasses. Plenty of styles have become popular in the past few years. Teashades, or ‘John Lennon sunglasses’, are a type of wire-rim glasses popularized as psychedelic art in the 60′s. Aviators, characterized by their oversized teardrop lenses, are worn by lots of celebrities including Jennifer Aniston, Johnny Depp, Vanessa Hudgens, and Lenny Kravitz. Ray-Ban Wayfarers, with trapezoidal lenses wider on the top than the bottom, are another popular option. Top off your look with a pair of trendy sunglasses.
Photo credit: fashion by dELiA*s