Don’t Forget to Accessorize!
Written By Natalia Cordero
Creative Directed By Natalia Cordero & Terrell Burse
Photography By Marko Maturino
Graphics by Kadence Schaecher
Styled by Vivian Rodriguez
Modeled By Terrell Burse, Aliyah Rivero, Douglas Bergren, & Liz Eike
Ever looked at an outfit and thought something was missing? It’s hard to style yourself differently each day — outfits start to look boring or overdone, and you’re left wondering what to add to spice it up. Don't give up just yet! Keep that outfit on and build.
Accessories can make or break an outfit. Once you have your clothing on, it creates a blank canvas to add what you want to make your outfit much more exciting. Many people only consider jewelry as an accessory, but there are many more options. Scarves, belts, ribbon, bags, and sunglasses are all free reign. It’s easy to overlook something so small, but it can completely transform what you have on.
Not only can it change the tone of an outfit, but accessorizing is another form of self-expression. The adornment of accessorizing has evolved from several cultures and ancient civilizations. The earliest form of fashion accessorizing can be dated back to Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. Many jewelry pieces were used in Egyptian burial and religious rituals symbolizing status and wealth. Furthermore, hair ornaments and brooches were utilized in ancient Greece symbolizing military achievements and status. From then on, accessorizing became a large component to fashion exploding during the medieval and renaissance periods.
In relation to self-expression, accessories can tell a story. Think of a belt you might’ve thrifted last week or a pair of earrings your grandmother gave you. Accessories can be a reminder of what was popular at the time and how it has come back. I like to think of it as a full circle moment because your sense of style evolves, but accessories are so versatile that it’s easy to reuse something even if it came from a past trend.
I used to be pretty minimalistic when it came to outfits. As I was exploring my own style, I feared the thought of accessorizing. It was just another thing I had to think about when creating an outfit. But, accessorizing is FUN! Wear that chunky necklace and maybe even add a couple of chokers too. That ribbon is not too much, in fact, add some more! You miss out on everything you don’t try. It’s okay to feel or look silly, it’s all part of the process. Experiment a little… anything can be an accessory if you believe.
Don’t know where to start? I’ve got your back.
Scarves
It can be especially hard to style yourself in the winter. How does one serve while keeping warm? Scarves. Yes, they’re for keeping you warm, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spice it up. Besides their practicality, scarves can add extra layering to your outfit while also incorporating another color or texture. A scarf can be used in multiple aspects of an outfit: on your neck, in your hair, or as a belt. This accessory has yet to go out of style and there are so many different patterns to choose from.
Belts
Belts are something that many overlook. Lots of people only think of belts as a tool rather than an accessory. Instead of using a belt to just keep those saggy pants up, explore the other cool belt possibilities that can add just the right amount to an outfit. A thick belt could be added to a dress to define the loose garment or a thin belt could be added to a fitted skirt or long pants. The belt buckle can also be used to your advantage. A unique buckle can become a statement piece and create a focal point in the outfit.
Jewelry
Of course, jewelry is the main accessory that everyone’s minds go to. Necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings are all great pieces to add that can compliment the outfit you have on. These small pops of bling can draw the eye and create a more cohesive outfit. How you decide what jewelry to add is up to you! Statement pieces are a great place to start as they can add so much, and dainty jewelry is good for layering.
Bags
Bags are most often used for convenience, but this is another piece that can add so much to an outfit! The practicality of this accessory makes it that much more appealing. Bags are necessary to carry your everyday essentials, but can also create contrast in an outfit. Not only that, but bags with tassels, chains, beads, and other details give the outfit an added layer of personality. Since bags are an often overlooked component, you can experiment with more unique looks. Even a tote bag with a cute design can boost your look.
Miscellaneous
Didn’t see an accessory you truly resonated with? Here are some quick ones:
Sunglasses add a fun flair while protecting your eyes. Trying different shapes and sizes can enhance and define your facial features. Hats allow for individual expression and can reveal mood while also elevating your look. It can rejuvenate an outfit and produce a center of attention. Hosiery — garments that you wear on your legs and feet such as tights, socks, and legwarmers — allows for experimentation without a major outfit change. Beyond the basics, fishnet, lace, and other patterned tights are becoming more and more popular.