How to Change Your Wardrobe With Accessories

If your wardrobe needs a boost, consider investing in some new accessories. A few well-chosen pieces can transform your simple items into sensational outfits you can wear anywhere. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Scarves
• Jewelry
• Pumps
• Boots
• Slouchy bag
• Purse
• Wrap
• Cardigan
• Sandals

1. Select a mix of classic and trendy accessories to make your wardrobe as versatile as you can. This will allow you to take your everyday clothes in a variety of directions and make it look like you have many more pieces than you really do. Take a simple black dress, for instance. When paired with a long gold-tone strand of pearls, a crocheted shawl and patent leather pumps, you can wear this to an evening work function or formal event. Or swap the dressier accessories for a lavender cardigan, snakeskin boots and a multi-layered gold necklace to completely change the look.

2. Incorporate a few good quality scarves in different colors, fabrics and weights. For instance, a wide cashmere wrap tied over your shoulders can add a cozy yet sophisticated appeal to a white blouse, while a multi-colored long, thin knit muffler tied around loosely around your neck can be sporty and fun. Finally, a silk print scarf knotted around your throat can be a classic way to add some color.

3. Let your accessories help you carry plain jeans and a white t-shirt through all twelve months in style. "Summerize" the look with leather flip flops, sunglasses and a straw bag. Transition into fall with suede mules, a wool hat and a deep leather pouchy bag in a jewel tone. Warm up to winter with a heavy knit cape, fur-trimmed boots and a patent leather purse. Usher in spring with gladiator sandals, a snakeskin bag and a crocheted shrug.

4. Search for unusual jewelry pieces. Multi-colored gemstones, costume jewelry pieces and artisan-crafted works can be statement pieces that can take a simple outfit to new levels of sophistication.

5. Mix up your wardrobe by putting together unexpected combinations. This will give you style edge and also expand your options considerably. Wear a long black taffeta skirt with a shrunken T-shirt and cropped jean jacket for a casual dinner out or a cocktail party. Or pair a cashmere hooded sweater over a simple shell and modern wide-leg silk pants for a go-anywhere look.

6. Use accessories to show you care. Even if you don't have time to dress up, you can make a black velor sweat suit or jeans and sweater outfit more special by adding a few bangle bracelets or a diamond solitaire necklace and some embellished ballet flats.

Tips & Warnings

• Invest in the classics, such as a good handbag, high-quality every day shoes and a good pair of earrings and gold chain. This will carry you through for many years.
• Buy trendy items at inexpensive mall chain stores, since you don’t need these to last forever. You can find colorful bags, hair notions and jewelry at very reasonable prices.
• Don’t over accessorize. Wear one or two very strong pieces at a time so your outfit looks well chosen, not like a fashion disaster!