Wearing the perfect outfit goes beyond the clothing. Whether it's adding the perfect touch to your casual style or dressing up an elegant look, it's all about accessories. Choosing the right combination is more complex. You can take your outfit from flat to fashionable, or you can ruin it. There is an art to accessorizing the right way. If you know what to look for, a quick glance in the mirror will tell you whether or not you need to accessorize. It works for men and women. Here are some tips to help you make the right choices.
Shapes
You body and face shape affect the way accessories look on you. Balance your most prominent body part with your most prominent accessories. For example, if your hips or middle section are more prominent, wear a hat or a large pair of earrings to balance the effect. If you have long hair or a prominent forehead and a slim body, wear chunky shoes to create balance.
Colors
Everyone has colors that make them look their best. Do you know what yours are? Discover the ones that flatter your skin tone and hair. Wear them close to your face as mainstays or in accessories. From scarves and neckties to earrings and jackets, your color selection makes a difference.
Timeless Pieces
Quality metal jewelry is a timeless accessory that simply becomes a vintage piece after several years. You can also pair it with casual or formal clothing for greater versatility. If budget is a factor, choose accessory colors and cuts that never go out of style. Look for timeless accents that you can wear in different ways. For example, try a scarf draped over your neck on an overcoat with the ends down straight on either side. You can also wear it wraparound style with a sweater and no coat.
Competition
Accessories can elevate your style or ruin your look. The key to when to accessorize and when not to accessorize is balance. The trick is to minimize how many items in your ensemble are drawing attention. One dominant item coordinated with less imposing elements can strike a balance. For example, if you're wearing a bold color or print shirt, don't make it compete with a bold accessory. Wear a neutral color or one that fades in comparison.
When Nothing Works
Unfortunately, you might not always have the perfect accessory to go with every outfit. If you can count how many pairs of shoes you have without using your fingers, you could probably use a few more options. The right color belt or scarf might escape you with some of your favorite clothes. It's better to forgo wearing a non-essential accessory than to wear something that looks just plain wrong.
Experiment
If you're choosing whether to accessorize or not accessorize, try some different looks. Consider shape, size and style to make your accents work for you. When it's a formal occasion, the simplicity of an adornment around the neck and perhaps the wrists may complete the look of elegance. For more casual attire, try chunky and bold accessories.
At Coco and Duckie, we have a wide range of accessories to wear with nearly any outfit. Browse our selections to find the ones that will fit in perfectly with your wardrobe.