If you can only buy one thing this fall, make it a shoe. Seriously. A new pair of shoes gives life to pieces you’ve had for years and makes you fall in love with them all over again. And since you can wear them as often as you want, the cost per use ends up being really low. The same is true, to a lesser extent, with other accessories. From bags to belts to jewelry, accessories are outfit-makers and offer an affordable, stylish way to update any look and inject your personality into an outfit.
Recently, in my Facebook group, we were talking about statement-shoe-people and not-statement-shoe-people. If you like wearing shoes in bold colors, patterns, and styles (like me!) then some of the statement shoes in this roundup are going to be just your thing. If you’re more of a subtle-shoe person, you will find those too! There’s something in this roundup for every style and budget!
Naturally, I put all of these fab accessories in one place so you can shop easily!
So here, 11 accessory trends worth trying this season.
Metallic Shoes & Bags
I used to tell anyone who would listen that the most neutral and most versatile shade for shoes and bags is a metallic. It can be shiny or matte, gold bronze or silver, but a metalic accessory just goes wiht everything. For a few seasons, however, metallics have been harder to come by, and we’ve turned to nudes and browns to fill that need for a universal neutral in our wardrobe. This season, however, metallics are back, and you’ll find everything from outrageous gold pumps with a mirrored finish to subtler versions of your favorite metals, and at every price. Aerosoles leads the way in trendy yet comfortable footwear, but you’ll find fab options from Seychelles to Schutz and everything in between.
Statement Belts
Belts offer a cool way to instantly update dresses and skirts, and look amazing worn over blazers, and it can be flattering on many body types. (You might want to skip this trend if you have an oval or apple shaped body type). It can define the waist and take the fullness out of some of this season’s oversized pieces. An easy way to wear this style is with a longer button-down and black leggins (faux leather, maybe?). Or try it over a basic dress to make it come to life.
Over The Knee Boots
I know, I know. Over the knee boots over 40 or 50. Yes! If they suit your personal style, like they do mine, go for it. They can be a great way to wear shorter dresses and skirts while still covering your legs, if they’re not your favorite feature. They can be tricky to style, so if this trend doesn’t appeal to you, skip it and go for a knee high boot instead.
An OTK boot looks best in a flat, chunky or block heeled style. Skip the pointy and patent pairs in this trend, as they can look too over the top. From fancy (the gold standard Stuart Weitzman pair) to frugal, there’s a style here for everyone.
Ballet Flats
The classic ballet flat has had a bad reputation for the last few years, turning up in scuffy, shapeless styles that did nothing to elevate an outfit. However, the well-made, elegant ballet flat has always been a style staple, and this season, there are more styles than ever to choose from. I still prefer the update of a pointy or square toe, but a chic rounded toe is also an option if the other boxes are checked. Look for a pair with a definite sole and elevated details to make it chic.
Neck Scarves
Not since the bikini has so little fabric made such a big impact. These strips and squares of silk, cotton, and other fab fabrics add color and pattern to basics, and can artfully disguise an aging neck. Best of all, they’re affordable and work for almost everyone (although if you have a very short neck you might want to tie it on your wrist, bag handle, or waist instead).
Hiking Boots
This is kind of a misnomer, actually. No one really expects you to hike in these boots. If you want a stylish boot that you can actually hike in, you might want to look elsewhere. I hear that Sorel makes some nice options. But if you want a boot that looks like you can trek through the terrain of a city or suburb with ease, then these are for you.
Platform Mary Janes
Platforms in general are a huge trend for fall, as I’ve discussed in previous videos, and they’re a real boost for petites like me. One of the key trends is a platform with either an ankle strap or a Mary Jane style strap, both of which help the shoe to stay on the foot.
Since straps can be a little leg-shortening, try a nude or metallic style for maximum flattery.
Bold Bangles
While delicate jewelry is definitely not out, this season shows a major return to statement jewelry, from dramatic chokers to bold bangles. I like these sculptural pieces best when worn to elevate essentials. They can take a very simple or casual outfit and make it stylish and interesting. That’s the power of accessories.
Pearls
Queen Elizabeth and the Princess of Wales have brought a triple strand of pearls back into the spotlight, and this classic feminine piece is the perfect addition to some of the edgier and more casual fall looks. Unless you’re Kate, skip wearing this style with prim, classic, or dressy pieces to avoid looking too stuffy.
Cue cool-girl-pearls and not clutching-her-pearls pearls.
Half Moon Shaped Bags
From the Fendi croissant to lesser priced versions, cool, half-circle shaped bags have been happening for a little while now, and they’re still going strong. They add an instant update to everyday outfits, plus they are roomy and comfortable to hold.
Big Hats
Hats aren’t just for sunny days, so stash your straw styles and turn to the beanies, berets, and oversized chapeaux that dominated the runways for fall. And although a hat the size of a small car makes a big statement, for everyday life, something more moderately sized works best.
So few women think of accessorizing the top of the head that when you do, it’s an instant outfit booster. It can take a ho-hum look and make it chic and pulled together.
Which of these accessories is your favorite? And which category do you plan to invest in for fall? Let me know in the comments!
Leave a Reply