There’s one thing that I talk about often with clients. That most of my clients are not well-versed in. And it’s something that many of them would like to play with (but they’re not sure how). It’s accessories.
And these clients usually fall into two camps – some of them have hardly any accessories, or hardly any variety. They have simple jewelry, black flats and white sneakers. And they only have one bag (that they use all the time). And then other clients have a bunch of accessories – fun jewelry, a range of belts, bags and scarves and a variety of shoes, boots, heels, etc. But they’re not using them all that much.
But here’s the thing – accessories are an incredible way to get more mileage out of your outfits. They’re generally a lower cost of entry (money and commitment-wise). And even when your size changes, accessories are the pieces you can still depend on.
And the most amazing thing about accessories is that they can totally shift your look. They can take a basic outfit from simple to stellar. They can change your vibe from minimal to maximal. They can update the same pieces from casual to cocktail. And you can do all this without changing your clothes!
Check out six outfits I created, as examples of using accessories to completely update your look (without having to change your clothes).
CHANGE YOUR MOOD
Sometimes you may be in a quieter mood. And other times you may be in a bolder mood. But you don’t have to change your outfit – you can just change your accessories. For a day of errands and dropping off/picking up the kids, a striped t, jeans and utility jacket are a no-brainer. When you’re in a subtle mood, keep it simple with plain ballet flats, your go-to bag and delicate jewelry. It’s easy and effortless, but still pulled together.
When you’re in a bolder mood, use accessories to kick it up a notch. Let’s say you’re meeting a group of friends for lunch (including the super stylish one who always looks amazing). This is the perfect opportunity to turn up the volume on your accessories. Switch plain flats for cheetah print (which is basically a neutral, so it goes with everything). Add a pop of color with your bag (because why let the red bag hang out in the closet every day?). Go for jewelry with a stronger presence (but still in your style wheelhouse). And you’ve totally shifted the mood of your outfit – but you’re still comfortable and you’re still you.
If you’ve never used a pop color to add interest to your outfits, read this to get some ideas.
Subtle look: Veronica Beard striped t & jacket, Agolde jeans, Sam Edelman flats, Polo Ralph Lauren bag, Aqua earrings & bracelets
Bolder look: Kate Spade flats, Tory Burch bag, Ettika earrings, Anabel Aram bracelet
CHANGE YOUR STYLE
Spring weddings are on the horizon. And you may have two different afternoon weddings to attend – but that doesn’t mean you need two completely different outfits. You can wear the same floral print dress and relaxed blazer to both – just switch your accessories based on the vibe. If one wedding has the service in a place of worship and the reception at a country club, you may want to lean more classic. So, you can’t go wrong with nude heels, simple jewelry and a basic clutch.
If the other wedding has a more relaxed vibe (with the service and reception in their backyard) – feel free to express your more boho side. Break out your western-inspired boots, straw fedora, dangly earrings and fringed bag. Because while you may save these accessories for jeans and t-shirt outfits, they work great with other outfits, too.
If jeans and a t-shirt are your go-to, check out 10 outfits I created by switching out layers and accessories.
Classic look: Veronica Beard dress, Loft blazer, Botkier clutch, Schutz heels, Nadri earrings & necklace
Boho look: Maje boots, Rebecca Minkoff bag, Rag & Bone hat, Ajoa by Nadri earrings
CHANGE WHERE YOU’RE GOING
Can the same outfit feel everyday easy and smart casual? Yes it can, if you change your accessories. A nice t-shirt, cropped pants and basic cardigan are pretty much a blank slate – so grab your cute sneakers and tote bag for a regular day at your super casual office.
And then, when you need to attend a performance at your kids’ school, don’t change your outfit. Just shift your accessories. Trade your sneakers for the heels that you love (that you wish you wore more). Switch to a bag that fits your phone and keys (because you don’t need your laptop). Add a necklace that totally elevates anything you put it with (because, why not?). And you’ve just discovered an outfit that also works for dinner with overseas clients. Or smart casual networking. Or your spouse’s work events that aren’t super dressy (but aren’t super casual, either).
If you’re having a hard time navigating the vagueness of ‘business casual’ dress codes (and who isn’t?), this should give you some clarity.
Everyday look: Me + Em cardigan, Ted Baker top & sneakers, Veronica Beard pants, Marc Jacobs bag, Coach watch, Glasses USA glasses
Smart casual look: Vince Camuto heels, Kendra Scott necklace, Ferragamo bag, Glasses USA sunglasses
So, are you convinced that accessories can totally change your look? And that they can be key in enjoying more of what’s already in your closet? Drop a comment to let me know. And feel free to comment with any questions, too.
If you’re looking to update, elevate or evolve your style – I’m happy to guide you through the process. I’ve spent the past 11 years (has it been that long already?) helping clients create intentional wardrobes that align their style with their lifestyle. Because it’s not just about having great outfits – it’s about having great outfits that work for your life.
Click here to read about the process I’ve used with 350+ clients.
Click here to see what many of my clients have to say about working together.
Click here to get more information and set up a Zoom consultation – I’ve just opened my waitlist for clients to start in late summer. So, if you want to make 2024 the year you finally feel better in clothes, now is the time to do it.