Choosing accessories used to stress me out more than picking a Netflix show on a Friday night.
You know that feeling when you’re standing in front of the mirror, holding three different necklaces and wondering if you’re about to look like a fashion icon or someone who raided their grandmother’s jewelry box?
Here’s the thing though, there’s actually a method to this madness that’ll save you time and second-guessing. I am about to show how to choose accessories.
Accessories = The Easiest Way to Upgrade Any Outfit
When you’re staring at your closet feeling like you’ve got absolutely nothing to wear (even though it’s literally bursting at the seams), accessories are about to become your new best friend.
That basic jeans and tee combo? Add some chunky gold jewelry and suddenly you look put-together.
Your plain work dress that’s been collecting dust? Throw on a statement belt and cute earrings… boom, you’re serving looks.
Accessories literally transform the most boring outfits into something that screams “I totally planned this.”
Pick Accessories That Make Your Outfit Pop
I’m gonna let you in on a little secret… you don’t need a million accessories cluttering up your space to look put-together!
Start with just a few reliable pieces that’ll work their magic with almost everything you own, and you’ll be amazed at how much mileage you get out of them.
Think of these as your accessory starter pack – the ones that never let you down when you’re running late and need to look like you’ve got your life together (even when you definitely don’t).
One statement necklace or hoop earrings
Although your jewelry box might be overflowing with tangled chains and mismatched earrings, you really only need two powerhouse pieces to elevate any outfit from “meh” to “wow.”
A statement necklace that makes people do double-takes and a pair of classic hoop earrings are must-have accessories… they literally go with everything and instantly carry you through coffee dates, work meetings and random grocery store runs where you inevitably run into your ex.
A versatile bag that goes with 80% of your closet
Just like that friend who somehow looks good in literally everything, the right bag should seamlessly blend with most of your wardrobe without requiring a complete outfit overhaul every time you switch purses.
I’m talking about that magical bag that works with your jeans and sneakers combo AND your fancy dinner dress.
Look for neutral colors like black, brown or cream… they’re basically the chameleons of the accessory world.
A medium-sized crossbody or tote usually does the trick since it’s not too dressy or too casual.
Think of it as your wardrobe’s best supporting actor, never stealing the show but always making everything look better.
Neutral or patterned scarves for layering
Most people think scarves are just for winter, but these accessories canwork year-round.
I love how a lightweight scarf can instantly elevate a basic tee and jeans combo… it’s basically fashion magic!
Start with two solid neutrals like cream or gray, then grab one fun patterned piece.
These three will cover most of your outfit situations. You can drape them loosely, tie them around your neck or even wear them as a headband when your hair’s having a moment.
Pure versatility right there!
Match Accessories to the Mood, Not Just the Color
I’ve learned that picking accessories isn’t just about matching colors perfectly, it’s about matching the vibe your going for!
When I’m feeling casual and relaxed, I reach for fun textured pieces like a chunky knit scarf or beaded bracelet that says “I’m approachable and ready for anything.”
But when it’s time to dress up, I swap those playful pieces for sleek metallics and polished jewelry that whisper “I mean business”…
And if my outfit’s already making a bold statement, I keep my accessories simple so I don’t look like I raided a jewelry store.
Casual? Try playful or textured pieces
When you’re putting together a laid-back look, color matching becomes way less important than capturing the right vibe… and that’s where the fun really begins!
I love mixing chunky knit scarves with sleek jackets or throwing on some funky textured earrings that don’t match anything else I’m wearing. It’s like your accessories get to be the class clown of your outfit!
Try woven bags, beaded bracelets or those adorable mismatched socks that peak out from your sneakers. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s personality… and textured pieces deliver that in spades!
Dressy? Go for sleek, metallic or polished
But flip the script to a fancy dinner or work event, and suddenly your accessories need to step up their game like they’re auditioning for a starring role!
This is where sleek, metallic pieces become your best friends. Think shimmery silver earrings that catch the light just right or a polished gold bracelet.
Chrome watches, glossy patent leather bags and anything with a mirror-like finish will make you look like you belong in those Instagram posts of fancy events you’re secretly jealous of.
Bold outfit? Keep accessories minimal
Since you’re already making a statement with that neon pink blazer or those zebra-print pants, your accessories should basically take a back seat and let your outfit do all the talking!
Think simple stud earrings instead of chandelier ones, or a delicate chain necklace rather than chunky statement pieces. Your bold outfit is already the star of the show… don’t compete with it!
I like to follow the “one statement piece” rule; if your clothes are screaming “look at me,” then your accessories should whisper. It’s like having two people talk at once, nobody knows who to listen to!
Balance Proportions to Complement Your Outfit
Getting proportions right can be tricky but once you nail these tips below, accessorize your outfits will be easier.
Chunky jewelry pairs well with simple clothes
When your outfit feels super basic, chunky jewelry swoops in like the superhero accessory it is! I’m talking bold necklaces, statement earrings and bracelets that basically scream “look at me!”
These pieces work magic with simple clothes because they create the perfect contrast. A plain white tee becomes instantly cooler with a chunky gold chain. Your little black dress? It’s transformed with oversized hoops.
The trick is letting one chunky piece be the star… don’t pile on everything at once or you’ll look like you fell into a jewelry box and couldn’t find your way out!
Petite frames do best with delicate accessories
Now flip the script completely because if you’re petite, those chunky statement pieces can totally overpower your frame and make you look like you’re wearing your mom’s jewelry!
I always tell my petite friends to think delicate and dainty. You want accessories that complement your proportions, not compete with them.
Thin chain necklaces, small stud earrings and slender bracelets are your best friends. It’s like choosing the right sized furniture for a small room… you wouldn’t put a massive sectional in a tiny apartment, right?
Delicate pieces will enhance your natural elegance without overwhelming your look.
Use vertical lines (like long necklaces) to elongate
Three simple words can change your entire look: think vertical lines!
It’s basically fashion geometry… and the math works in your favor! When you wear longer pieces, they draw the eye up and down instead of side to side, which creates that coveted elongated silhouette.
Long scarves, pendant necklaces and layered chains are your best friends here.
Even a simple long cardigan does the trick! It’s amazing how these vertical elements can make you look taller and more streamlined without any crazy dieting required.
Add Personality: Think Color, Meaning or Story
I love picking accessories that tell my story or just make me smile every time I catch a glimpse of them in the mirror.
Whether it’s that vintage brooch from grandma or a bright yellow scarf that screams “spring is here”, these pieces let your personality shine through without saying a word.
Plus, swapping out seasonal accessories is like giving your wardrobe a mini makeover… way easier than changing your entire outfit and definitely easier on the wallet!
Wear what sparks joy or has sentimental value
While trends come and go like your favorite social media app, the accessories that truly make an outfit yours are the ones that tell your story.
That vintage watch from grandpa? Pure gold. The quirky earrings you bought on vacation… they’re basically tiny souvenirs that make you smile every time you catch your reflection.
I’m talking about pieces that hit different because they mean something to you. Maybe it’s a bracelet from your bestie or rings that remind you of special moments.
These accessories don’t just complete your look, they complete you.
Play with seasonal swaps for fun without full outfit changes
When the seasons shift, your accessories get to have their main character moment without you having to overthrow your entire wardrobe.
I love swapping my chunky gold necklace for delicate silver pieces when spring arrives, or trading my leather crossbody for a woven straw bag that screams summer vibes.
Winter calls for cozy scarves and boots that make the same jeans feel completely different.
It’s like giving your outfits a seasonal glow-up without the shopping spree… your wallet will thank you later.
Small changes create big impact, and honestly, it’s way more fun than starting from scratch every season.
Wrap-Up: How To Choose Accessories
After diving into the world of belts, scarves, jewelry and all the fun extras that make your outfits pop, there’s one golden rule that’ll save you from looking like you raided a costume shop: accessories should be the cherry on top, not the entire sundae.
Think of accessories as your outfit’s exclamation point… they’re suppose to add that perfect finishing touch.
When you feel like your accessories are homework instead of fun, you’ve probably gone overboard. Trust your gut, keep it simple and remember that confidence is your best accessory anyway!
