What’s an ice cream sundae without the cherry on top? The same could be asked about your outfit: what’s an outfit without your accessories?
Accessories are a way to take your wardrobe up a notch. You can give your OOTD (outfit of the day) a whole different vibe depending on what you wear with it. A dress with heels and a pearl necklace looks just right walking into church, but the same dress paired with sneakers and a jacket tied around the waist is the perfect beach uniform.
Rotating out accessories is a great way to keep your look fresh, too. Buying a handful of accessories won’t break the bank like buying a handful of tunics would.
Accessories from Head to Toe
There are six main types of accessories:
Jewelry
Typically the first things that come to mind when you think of accessories are different forms of jewelry: necklaces, rings, bracelets, anklets, and earrings. Jewelry is so versatile and can be used to add a little sparkle or make a large statement. A great way to start with jewelry would be some classic pieces, such as diamond stud earrings or hoops that can go with many different looks.
Hair accessories
You can really stand out and make your look pop with some trendy hair accessories. Scarves, clips, beads, headbands, and wraps are great ways to elevate your outfit. Feeling more sporty? You can now buy silk-lined baseball caps that won’t compromise your hair.
Belts
You can wear a belt for function, but don’t overlook wearing a belt for fashion. Highlighting the most narrow part of your body with a belt can be a flattering look. Different outfits demand different types of belts…try wide, thick, braided, embellished, or plain-Jane.
Handbags
You can’t expect to go out without your things, so you might as well make a statement with what you choose to carry everything in. You can keep your essentials in a clutch, or if you’re going to be out longer or need some extra space, a larger handbag or crossbody purse will do the trick. No one is following the outdated “make sure your bag matches your shoes” rule anymore. Your clutch or bag can be as bold or as subtle as you want them to be, whether it is a neutral color or a beaded Delta clutch.
Shoes
Speaking of shoes, footwear is the only accessory you won’t find optional when you leave the house. Just like belts, footwear can be functional, but it’s a lot of fun when you make it fashionable, too. Make sure your shoes are comfortable, though, since fashion isn’t worth blisters.
Winter accessories
If you live somewhere that gets cold, you can make layering up a fashion statement. Coordinating your gloves with your beanie and your scarf can give your outfit a put-together look, even if you only wear it while sprinting from your door to your car.
Accessorizing for Beginners
If you are new to accessorizing, start basic. Purchase a piece that makes you feel like a star and that you can wear with multiple outfits. Once you feel confident with that accessory, start adding complementary pieces.
Too many big statement pieces will compete with each other. One bold choice accompanied by other supportive accessories will keep your look balanced.
Use accessories to bring a pop of color. Don’t be afraid to add a bright pair of shoes to an outfit or spice up your dress with a flashy belt.
Accessories can make transitions from one event to the next easier since you won’t need to bring a whole new wardrobe with you. Slipping on some stilettos and bolder jewelry can transform your office look to “date-night-ready” in minutes.
If you want to represent your sorority and accessorize, here are some helpful tips.
- If you are rocking your DST bomber jacket, some fun earrings or a head scarf might be the best way to dress up the look without the accessory competing with the jacket. Some sleek shoes could also pair well with the jacket.
- If you’re wearing a more neutral outfit but still want to represent your sisterhood, grab a sorority clutch.
- If you’re wearing one of your Delta Sigma Theta shirts, a statement necklace might take away from it. Instead, accessorize it with:
- A fun headwrap
- Bangle bracelets
- Funky/fun patterned shoes
- Statement earrings
Have fun with it. Playing around with different combinations can help you develop your own style. If you feel good in it, chances are you’ll look good in it.
The best accessory you’ll put on is your smile. Strutting your stuff with confidence will make any accessory you choose look good.