The saying “less is more” does not always prove true in the fashion world. The accessories with which you adorn your apparel are the key to creating a put-together look. Accessories are a great way to emphasize your personal style by amping up a plain-Jane ensemble with a statement shoe, bright belts or bold jewelry.
Spring 2012 is not the season of functionality when it comes to the fashion world. The economy stresses the versatility of black pumps and a matching bag, but the sunshine of spring and the money you get from selling back your books to the Supe Store says otherwise.
Many shoe designers, such as Prada, Chanel and Balenciaga, are introducing lines of “novelty heels” this spring. These shoes look like they shouldn’t be touching the pavement, but rather like they should be seen on display at an art museum. A statement shoe — that of the bright, bold and quirky variety — can easily transform a bland outfit into an intentional, one-of-a-kind look.
Shoes are quite literally out of this world with transparent aspects adding to the already wide spectrum of shoe styles. A chunky stripper heel may be coming to mind upon the mentioning of transparent, but the look can add a sophisticated touch. Zara has a great nude sandal with a clear heel that adds a hint of unexpected glam to the usual nude pump.
In other realms of the accessory world, belts are not always for holding up your pants. Skinny, neon, metallic and stretchy; just like us ladies, this apparel adornment comes in many shapes and sizes. Cinch a flowy top with a skinny neon belt to highlight your waist or dress up a simple white dress with a metallic belt. Target has a large selection of belts in lots of bright colors and metallics.
Jewelry is no new accessory, but we sometimes forget the power it can add to an outfit. No clothes combination is complete without the right amount of body bejeweling. This spring, it is less about the actual jewel or stone, but there is more emphasis on the metal — gold, silver and the like. I personally am partial to a set of gold bangles and deem no outfit complete without them. Just that extra “clink” when I’m walking seems to give me a satisfaction about the look I created that morning.
Giant dangling earrings have been spotted weighing down the frail models of high fashion runways recently. This accessory can be bought most anywhere at a reasonable price and should be worn with minimal jewels on the neck and wrist regions. A dramatic earring can dress up a short and blouse combo or add a boho feel to a flowy skirt depending on the style.
Headbands have also made a comeback recently. No longer stashed in the bathroom to use when washing your face or to hide your attempt at straight-across bangs, these hair ornaments come in all styles and can be worn for any occasion. Many mod or retro styles have been seen on celebrities such as Zooey Deschanel to adorn a simple ponytail or highlight bangs. Other metallic sorts can dress up a bad hair day and can be thrown on when time is of the essence.
I hope this rundown of spring accessories has inspired the inner artist in your usual morning routine. Play with colors and proportions to achieve a unique ensemble that looks put-together and oozes personality. Don’t forget that it is the little additions that truly make an outfit.
