Style Tips: A is for Accessories

Can't Live Without Them

 No fashionistas wardrobe is complete without accessories. Accessories are like the icing on a cake; you have to have them to make and outfit complete!

How do you choose accessories? Go for what you know and love. Buying what works for you is the key to successful accessorizing. Just because someone else is doing it doesn't mean that you should do it too. You have to consider your individual style and personality to pull off an accessory appropriately.

For example, a classicist wouldn't be caught dead in a pair of feather earrings a la bohemian style. She's likely to stick to he classic pearls, diamond studs, or simple gold jewelry. What do you need in your accessory wardrobe? Here's our list:

1. Shoes. From pumps to boots to flats to sandals. not wardrobe is complete without a nice assortment of footwear. For work and evening, make sure you have plenty of pumps. Peep-toe, square toe, round, and pointy. Pumps can make any outfit complete and they're versatile. You can wear them with pants or dresses. 

2. Jewelry. First off, diamond studs. No fashionista goes without them. They're perfect for formal events or casual affairs. And of course if you can't get the real thing, an acceptable faux pair is just as chic. No one is really going to know the difference. Second, the statement necklace. Why? Because it's a conversation piece and perfect when you don't feel like making a lot of fuss over your accessories. the statement necklace will suffice.  Next there's the cocktail ring. No longer just for cocktail hour, the cocktail ring is the accessory. Wear one and you'll subject yourself to accessory envy. The bigger the better, with huge stones, bling, or intricate design, cocktail rings definitely make a statement.  For those lady like occasions, a strand of pearls says a lot without saying too much. Pearl necklaces are always elegant and give you a refined look. Very Diahann Carroll circa 1960s.  Lastly, no fuss cuffs. Slip them on your arm and you're out the door. And you don't even need help.
Brands we like: Amrita Singh, Tiffany & Co., Avelle @ Nordstrom, Aldo Accessories,

3. Belts. Our friends, the waist thinner and curve accentuates, belts can make ordinary extraordinary. Belts are great accents for those days when you want to go from frumpy to fabulous. I own animal print belts, sash's, belts with hardware and bling. If your outfit is simple, a belt can give it can alter the look for the better. Invest in a thin, medium, and wide belt.
Brands we like: Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, Fossil, and Calvin Klein.

4. Handbags. The must-have accessory for every woman. Handbags are the topping on a perfect outfit. Two great bags to have? A structured bag, not to big not too small, but one that can carry you from work and on to a flight for a quick getaway.  I love Francesco Biasia bags, they come in a ton of styles and colors. The clutch is is the sassy sister of the structured bag. She comes out to play women less is definitely more. Right now I'm loving those Tory Burch clutches. Clutches are very chic and you can find them in almost every color.
Other brands we like: Hype, Louis Vuitton, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Kooba, Burberry, and Aldo.

5. A timeless watch. Go for a high-quality classic metal in gold or stainless steel.
Brands we like: Anne Klein, Guess, Michael Kors, Rolex, Locman, and Seiko.

Just as fashion changes, your accessories should change as well. Trends are fine but avoid falling into the trend trap. Select accessories that will last for more than a season. Invest in quality pieces that can take your wardrobe to the next level. Don't be afraid to splurge on quality or spend a couple of dollars on some fun pieces. Variety is the key to great accessories!