It's totally easy to be a fashion dimwit when it comes to accessories — most of us, while able to put together a stunning look, are hopeless at accessorising it. Accessories just don't get enough credit, which is sad because an outfit can go from “whatever” to breathtaking in a matter of minutes… with the right accessories. This month Miss Miche shows you how to complete your look with just the right accessories – for you!
How many times have you bought an outfit, for the first day of college or for a special occasion only to realize when you're wearing it that it isn't quite finished… That you didn't pick up any good accessories to complete your look? That if you had a pretty yellow scarf or a neat little charm bracelet or even that awesome messenger bag, it just might have done the trick. You probably end up making do with what's in your accessories bag, but it won't feel the same!
So get into the habit of planning out your complete look when you're buying an outfit or a particular item of clothing. Plan the accessories you will wear with it to create or complete the look you're after.
When shopping for accessories, as with clothes, you ‘ll find your most flattering looks by understanding the colours and styles that suit you best. Take the outfit you want to accessorize along with you if possible. Don't buy what you need at the first store you visit. Browse, compare and buy only if you're completely convinced that the accessories you've chosen enhance your outfit that much more.
Accessories are fashion's multi-taskers. You can change the look of any outfit — from casual to formal and vice versa, by simply changing the accessories you wear. For example, change your shoes, handbag and jewellery (and maybe your top too) to go from college to an evening out with friends or even to dinner with your parents.
WHEN CHOOSING YOUR ACCESSORIES
DO’s
Work to find accessories that will successfully benefit a variety of wardrobes, to stretch your budget and the items available to you. When you buy an everyday item, try to think of at least three things you already own that you can wear with it.
As a rule of thumb, stick to 2 or 3 colours at a time... at the most. A red and black outfit looks good together. Adding a third colour could be tricky if you are only guessing. Begin studying outfits that have been put together by
professionals. You will soon look as if you just stepped out of the pages of a magazine.
Use shoes and a handbag that contrast, rather than match, your outfit. For instance, a simple outfit of jeans and a black top will benefit from the pop of a bright green shoe.
Change your look with a belt. Choose from a fabulous variety: wide, thin, decorative, etc.
Your shoes can be trendy, classic or chunky. For chic yet casual
outfits, opt for sneakers, sandals, cowboy boots or loafers. Old, unpolished or unkempt shoes can spoil your look completely. Invest in a good, long-lasting fomal pair and keep it polished and looking good-as-new.
Eyeglasses are one of the few ways you can really express yourself. Do your best to find a pair of glasses that not only compliments the shape of your face, but also expresses your personality.
Sometimes you can change the entire look of an outfit by simply pairing it with a funky looking purse. Messenger bags are a good option too. They look cool and books fit into them so much better. Use a backpack for fun, comfort and usefulness.
Wear opaque black tights to turn a basic dress into something more modern.
Have fun with jewellery, and remember that pearls go with everything. Hoop earrings, ethnic beads, stones and wires are everywhere, as are nose rings, chokers and hair clips. Consider making your own.
Drape a bandanna or a vintage, silk or hand-knit scarf around your neck to change the look of a dress - or tie your hair with it - and you'll look pulled together.
Accessories aren't all just jewellery! Nail polish, sunglasses, watches and handbags are all included. Taking the time to change your nail colour or move your personal items into a different purse makes all the difference! It's all about pulling a look together.
Changing your hairstyle can make your outfit look completely different. If you usually wear your hair in a long ponytail or a plait, try letting it all the way down for a change.
DONT’S
Never wear an accessory that overpowers your outfit. Remember, it is called an accessory because you use it to work with your wardrobe, not completely overshadow you or your clothing.
Don't wear every current trend at once. Although it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, a ‘do can’ quickly become a ‘don't’ when worn together at once.
USE ACCESSORIES TO:
Enhance your best features
Update an older classic outfit that belonged to your mum or your older sister
Get any look you want - chic, elegant, sophisticated, casual, fun, artistic and so on
Fashion accessories include...
Shoes
Handbags
Sunglasses
Jewellery
Scarves and ties
Hats
Belts
socks
Hair ornaments
HEY BOYS! You have my envy and my sympathies. Your list of accessories is so much shorter. Shoes, socks, belt, belt buckle, eyeglasses, watch, ONE ring, ONE bracelet, ONE necklace and MAYBE simple stud earrings are all you need to worry about. And don't ever wear socks with sandals.
MS MICHE is a fashion-savvy teen who loves clothes and describes her own look as "urban laidback". If you want to ask her a question, e-mail editorial@theteenagermag.com with the subject line ‘Ask Ms. Miche’.
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Fashionista
How many times have you bought an outfit, for the first day of college or for a special occasion only to realize when you're wearing it that it isn't quite finished… That you didn't pick up any good accessories to complete your look? That if you had a pretty yellow scarf or a neat little charm bracelet or even that awesome messenger bag, it just might have done the trick. You probably end up making do with what's in your accessories bag, but it won't feel the same!
When shopping for accessories, as with clothes, you ‘ll find your most flattering looks by understanding the colours and styles that suit you best. Take the outfit you want to accessorize along with you if possible. Don't buy what you need at the first store you visit. Browse, compare and buy only if you're completely convinced that the accessories you've chosen enhance your outfit that much more.
MS MICHE is a fashion-savvy teen who loves clothes and describes her own look as "urban laidback". If you want to ask her a question, e-mail editorial@theteenagermag.com with the subject line ‘Ask Ms. Miche’.