How to Accessorize Your Casual Wardrobe

Casual is the watchword.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hair Accessories
• Handbags
• Men's Dress Belts
• Men's Loafers
• Sun Hats
• Sunglasses
• Women's Belts
• Women's Loafers
• Women's Sandals
• Bracelets
• Casual Earrings
• Mens' Watches
• Women's Watches

1. Consider your activities for the day. If you'll be hiking, leave those platform sneakers in the closet.

2. Choose a watch that's really you: plastic or wide band, sporty or tank.

3. Drape a bandanna or a vintage, silk or hand-knit scarf around your neck - or tie your hair with it - and you'll look pulled together.

4. Change your look with a belt. Choose from a fabulous variety: wide, thin, decorative, etc.

5. Keep your shoes on! They can be trendy, classic, down-home or chunky. For chic yet casual outfits, opt for sneakers, sandals, cowboy boots or loafers.

6. Have fun with jewelry, 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.

7. Use a backpack for fun, comfort and usefulness. Keep in mind that a straw bag or a book bag can also be a stylish alternative to a purse.

8. Put a water bottle and your sunglasses in a canvas bucket bag. If you're just carrying around your keys and lipstick, try a tiny knit purse.

Tips & Warnings

• Have fun, but maintain a sense of balance. Too many bangles can bungle a sundress and ruin a sleek sandal look.

• Remember hats. Straw hats and watch caps, bucket and porkpie hats, and caps and berets are fun and casual. They lend you a confident air.

• Make sure your footgear matches your day's blueprints. Nothing gets you down more than aching feet.