Accessories are the finishing touches that turn an ordinary outfit into something extraordinary. They’re the little details that make your look more personal. In fact, one style expert notes that accessories are “elements that make [an outfit] more attractive and useful”¹. Think of a beautiful necklace, a colorful scarf, or a chic belt – as designer Michael Kors famously said, “Accessories are the exclamation mark of your outfit”¹. Whether you’re wearing jeans and a tshirt or a tailored work dress, the right accessories complete the look, making it feel polished and intentional.

Why do they matter so much? For one thing, accessories pull an outfit together. Fashion blogger Jess Abernathy explains that accessories are “like the bow on a pretty package” – they make an outfit look “complete, finished”². A simple outfit of jeans and a white shirt instantly feels put-together when you add a great bag, a fun scarf, or standout shoes. Accessories also showcase your personality. They tell a bit of your story and give a peek at your taste². For example, a vibrant beaded necklace might say “I love colour and fun,” while a classic gold designer watch might say “I appreciate timeless elegance.” These touches highlight what makes you unique.

Moreover, accessories can transform and refresh what you already own. As one style consultant writes, “They can completely transform an outfit” – think how a bold pair of earrings or a patterned scarf can elevate a little black dress for an evening event³. This means you can wear the same basics in new ways, simply by swapping in different accessories. Researchers note that just changing your jewellery or adding a scarf can give you a fresh, modern look in five seconds¹. This makes accessories perfect for busy schedules: a quick change of necklace or shoes can carry you from work to dinner without a whole new outfit.

Choosing Accessories that Work for You
When picking accessories, consider your personal style and the occasion. Do you lean classic, trendy, boho or minimalist? For a classic or minimalist look, choose simple, timeless pieces (like pearl earrings or a leather tote). For something more playful or relaxed, try colourful patterns, mixed metals, natural materials or unique shapes. Harmony is key: your accessories should complement each other, your personality and your outfit. One idea is to coordinate colours or textures. For example, you might match your handbag to the colour of your shoes, or pick a scarf that ties together multiple colours in your top⁷.
Pay attention to scale, proportion, balance and contrast: a dainty necklace pairs well with a more embellished outfit, while a chunky bracelet might be the star against a simple blouse⁷.
It’s also smart to consider the occasion. For a formal event, choose refined and understated accessories (think simple studs and a sleek clutch). For casual outings, you can be more adventurous – mix patterns or wear playful, colourful pieces. But remember one golden rule: less is often more. Too many bold accessories at once can compete for attention. Abernathy advises letting one piece take centre stage². If you want to wear a statement necklace, balance it with subtler earrings and bracelets. This creates a focal point without overwhelming your look.

Practical tips for accessorising
**Let one piece shine².** Choose a single statement item (a necklace, a handbag, or even a pair of shoes) as your focal point and keep the rest more subdued. This keeps the look balanced and lets your favourite item stand out.
**Layer thoughtfully¹².** A few well-chosen pieces can complement each other: try stacking bracelets or layering delicate necklaces of different lengths. Layered accessories can create a rich, head-turning look. Just be careful not to overload—balance big pieces with finer ones⁷.
**Match colours and textures⁷.** Pick one accent colour and echo it in two or three pieces. For example, if you wear a scarf with teal in it, perhaps carry a teal purse or wear teal shoes. Matching materials can work too: a leather bag with leather shoes, or a refined silk scarf with a sleek coat. These choices create a visually cohesive outfit.
**Use belts to define your silhouette.** Belts are super versatile: a belt at the waist can instantly define your shape and add polish. Try cinching a loose dress or cardigan to give structure to your outfit. The right belt can make your legs look longer and your figure more balanced². Just choose the width and style (skinny vs. wide, plain vs. detailed) to suit your body and look.

**Scarves and shawls add colour and flair⁶.** A scarf can do wonders: wrap a printed silk scarf around your neck for a pop of color, or tie a patterned one to your handbag or wear as a hairband. In cooler weather, a cosy cashmere scarf not only keeps you warm but adds soft texture. A simple outfit can be upgraded instantly with a beautiful scarf⁶. Experiment with knots and drapes to find something that works with your neckline.
**Choose the right jewellery for your outfit and face.** A bold necklace is perfect for an open neckline; long earrings can frame your face. If you’re not sure, remember Abernathy’s advice: a choker or shorter necklace draws focus to your face, while a longer pendant can balance a round face². And pick jewellery metals (gold, silver, rose gold, or mixed metals) that match your outfit and undertone.
**Coordinate bags and shoes.** A fabulous bag and great shoes can elevate even a very simple outfit³. You don’t have to match them exactly, but they should complement each other. For instance, a neutral tan bag with tan boots, or a colour pop clutch that echoes a bit of your dress. The goal is a harmonious ensemble, not a clash (unless that’s what you love, of course!).
**Add personal touches.** Most importantly, wear things you love. If a piece has meaning – a family heirloom necklace or a souvenir scarf – it can make you feel special and confident. As one jewellery expert explains, accessories often carry memories and emotions, which boost our self-esteem when we wear them³. Let your accessories tell part of your story and remind you of special memories.

Accessories and Confidence
Beyond just aesthetics, accessories can actually affect how you feel. Fashion psychology shows that our clothing (and accessories) is “an abstract portrayal of who we are from within”⁵. In other words, wearing pieces that resonate with your identity can make you feel more *like yourself*. Studies have found that choosing outfits (and accessories) that we feel good in can boost our mood and self-confidence⁵³. For example, if wearing a statement ring or a favorite pair of sunglasses makes you smile, you literally feel happier and more poised.
Moreover, your outfit sends signals to the world. As one researcher puts it, “Our clothes affect both our own mood and how others perceive us”¹. A well-chosen accessory can highlight your best features: earrings can draw attention to your eyes or hair, a necklace can frame your face, and a well-placed belt can emphasise your waist¹. When you look in the mirror and feel that *complete, finished* version of yourself², you naturally stand taller and act more confidently. And as others notice your thoughtful style details, you may get compliments that further boost your spirits.

Enjoy Your Accessories
Accessoris
ing should feel fun and creative, not stressful. Think of it as playing with colour, texture, detail, and pattern to express yourself. Browse a thrift store or jewellery boutique and pick pieces that speak to you, even if you’re not sure how you’ll wear them yet. Over time, you’ll learn which items excite you and how to mix and match them. Keep experimenting: try wearing a scarf in different ways, or pairing a necklace you usually reserve for fancy outfits with everyday clothes.
Remember, there are no strict rules, it’s your style!
What matters is that you *feel* good. If adding a pop of red lipstick and a bold bracelet to your casual outfit makes you happy, go for it! If you love how a delicate headband makes you feel feminine but practical, wear it. The right accessories will make your outfit feel cohesive and expressive, reflecting your unique style. A recent style study notes, “Fashion serves as a means of self-expression” and it “says a lot about who we are”⁵. So use your accessories to tell your story.
Above all, enjoy and have fun with it. Even small changes can make a big difference.

1. Huseynova NZ. The role of accessories in organizing the clothing ensemble. Proc 9th Int Sci Pract Conf “Current Issues and Prospects for the Development of Scientific Research”; June 19–20, 2024; Orléans, France.
2. Abernathy J. Accessorize Like a Pro: 10 Tips. Dressed for My Day (blog). 2017.
3. Inspereza. Jewelry and Confidence: How Accessories Boost Self-Esteem. February 2024.
4. Caroline. Why Are Accessories Important. Style on the Side (blog). Aug 20, 2019.
5. Srivastava M. The Role of Fashion in Self-Expression and Identity. Fibre2Fashion. July 2023.
6. Chic at any age. The power of scarves to transform a simple outfit. 2018.
7. Harness Color Studio. Fashion Accessories: The Details That Transform a Look. Dec 2023. text goes here