How to Accessorize for Spring

Spring is a time for bringing some color back to your wardrobe and celebrating the end of a long winter. You can turn a bland pair of pants into a spring fashion statement by adding a few accessories, like a pair of funky earrings or a flashy leather belt.

Instructions

1. Accessorize any outfit with a classic patent leather belt. Look for a 1 and ½ inch thick belt with a square buckle for a show-stopping look. Pick up a solid-colored thin belt and wrap it around a navy blue cardigan or a Empire waist print dress for a feminine spring-into-summer look.

2. Buy a convertible bag with options for short or long straps. Choose a big bag and fill it up with your essentials, or grab a cute clutch for nights out on the town.

3. Splurge on a designer purse. Make this your one indulgence for the season and use it often. Be sure to follow directions for storage and cleaning. Choose a classic spring color like taupe or navy, and you can use it for years to come.

4. Pick up a knock-off purse from a street vendor or purchase one online. Be prepared to buy another purse next spring as straps tend to fray and stitching tends to be unreliable for extended use.

5. Accessorize your work wear with ballet flats. Mix prints to bring out your playful side. Don't forget animal prints are always in style. Pair fun flats with a traditional pantsuit, and you can get away with them even in a more formal work setting.

6. Buy a pair of sexy spring boots. They go great with skirts and they dress up slacks. Stick with classic looks since you're going to be dropping more than a small chunk of change on a quality pair of boots.

7. Lighten things up with some fun new makeup. The right metallic shade of eye shadow may be all you need to accessorize a sassy spring party dress. Go to your local department store and ask for a spring makeover. Remember, you don't have to buy everything they put on you. Find someone you trust, and ask her to pinpoint essential makeover items. For example, some fresh new eye shadow shades and some fun lipsticks in coral or light pink are all you need.

8. Accessorize with wood, such as a wooden bead necklace or hand-carved bracelet. Think big, chunky pieces, and don't be afraid to make some noise.

9. Go for a bold look by creating a theme with your accessories. Set sail with a nautical theme or become a blossoming spring flower with a print dress and a pair of daisy earrings.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to match your outfit to the setting. Leave the crazier get-ups for the weekend unless you happen to have a laid-back workplace.