Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize! Part 1

PART 1
There is something to be said about a well-dressed person, and the key is not only in the clothing but in how the whole ensemble is put together, in particular, with accessories.  Accessories have to be one of the easiest things to do to take your ensemble to the next level.  Yet many of us find it one of the most intimidating and daunting tasks.  I hope to be able to provide you with some tools when you are out on your next hunt for that great accessory!


You're standing in the accessories section of your local shop and find yourself asking these same questions:
Where do I start? What do I look for? What looks good? Will that go with what I have?  How do I pull it all together?...STOP!  This is a perpetual loop that you continue to pull yourself into, and it's completely unnecessary.  Yes, I'll admit for the faint of heart, standing in front of rows upon rows of handbags can feel like you're being sucked into a vortex, but rest assured that you are a) not alone and b) can be guided!


You have the ability to select clothing pieces for your wardrobe but somehow can't tie them all together with accessories, I have some examples of how you can take that little black dress or that pant suit to the next level just by accessorizing:


Don't Underestimate the Camisole
Yes, while some would agree that a camisole doesn't count as an accessory, I tend to disagree in many instances.  While it is good at "covering-up" it can also act as a bouncing-off point.  Take for example a simple white cropped sleeved cardigan; pair that with a turquoise camisole and white linen pants (all for the summer, of course) and you have a great base.

If you took that same white cropped sleeved cardigan and paired it with a white camisole and the same white linen pants, you would be coordinated but very monochromatic.  There is nothing wrong with being monochromatic, that's not what I'm saying, what I'm trying to show is that by taking that turquoise camisole and adding it to your base you can then accessorize with say a candy-red bangle bracelet or candy-red sandals and you have a great outfit.  Just remember, don't go overboard with introducing turquoise and red into this ensemble, you want to keep it subtle and light especially for the summer.

That Little Black Dress
Every woman should have a little black dress in their closet, and if you don't, get yourself one, they truly come in handy!  Little black dresses are great jumping off points for accessorizing.  If your dress has a round, square, open or v-neck you can punch up your dress with a statement necklace.  If you have a high-neck dress, don't fret, you can easily get away with an arm full of bracelets, a cocktail ring or killer earrings.  

                                     

If you're not sure about adding bracelets, a necklace or even earrings to your outfit; or if your dress already comes equipped with embellishments (i.e. rhinestones, beading, stichwork, etc), consider ramping up your outfit with a killer pair of heels, preferably in a knock-out shade.

Just remember go with one or the other, but don't get crazy and start adding accessories all over the place with your little black dress...I want you to look hip & classy and not like a theatrical performance! 




To Hat or not to Hat
The hat is a controversial accessory in my opinion; it can either make or seriously break an entire outfit. When choosing a hat the first thing to keep in mind is, hats do not look good on everyone.  Try on different styles of hats to see which suits you and if none do, walk away.


Baseball caps are not the only type of hat out there, I promise you.  There are many different styles and shapes available.  Take for example the over-sized straw hat, now I wouldn't recommend trying to drive or even show up to work sporting one of these lovelies, but if you were let's say going to the beach, this would be a great option for optimal sun-blockage.

Piece together: a bathing suit, a chic beach bag, stylish flip-flops, a sarong in a coordinating colour, big sunglasses and your floppy over sized straw hat and you are all set for your day in the sun!

The fedora is also another good example of a stylish hat that you could wear around town. Just be cautious not to overwhelm your look with too many additional accessories as the fedora is a statement piece all on its own.
Piece together: cropped pants, neutral shoes, a white bag, a bright coloured top, bangles, sunglasses and a fedora and you have a chic weekend/wear around town look.

Those are just a couple of popular options when it comes to hat selection.  Be sure that you look for refined lines and accent detailing in your hat such as ribbons or buttons when you're out there searching.  Try many different styles on to find the one that suits you best. Just remember that the hat should accentuate your style not overpower it.  We want to see you first and not just the hat.


The Cami, LBD and Hat selection are the three topics in the first installment of Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize! Be sure to stay tuned for Part 2 where I'll talk about bags, shoes, jewelery and more!!