Five ways to upgrade your outfit with accessories

Accessories are the finishing touch that can transform a simple outfit into an extraordinary one. Whether you’re heading to a casual brunch or a formal evening event, the right accessories can make all the difference. If you’re struggling for inspiration on how to upgrade your look, here are five ways you can elevate it with accessories. These are looks that I personally love!

Hats

Hats continue to be a popular accessory choice, offering both style and functionality. One of the standout trends this season is the bucket hat.

This fashionable addition comes in various fabrics and patterns, from chic leather to playful prints, from high end designers to high street retailers. They provide a relaxed yet stylish vibe, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your ensemble.

For a more dramatic effect though, consider wide-brimmed hats. They can help protect you from the sun, as well as add a touch of elegance to your outfit. I’ve been living in my new sun hat that I got last week – I cannot get enough of it! It even stood out to a painter on the weekend. He said he’s going to include me in my hat in his painting of the street. They definitely make a statement!

Jewellery

Jewellery remains a powerful tool for personal expression and enhancing your look. Chunky necklaces, large hoop earrings, and statement cuffs can add a striking flair to even the simplest outfits.

Silver jewellery is proving popular this year, offering a sleek and modern alternative to traditional gold. Of course this depends on your skin tone and which you prefer though. Also, mixing metals is no longer a fashion faux pas, so feel free to combine silver and gold pieces for a contemporary twist, it’s really trending.

I personally love more refined and elegant necklaces and rings, but I do adore some statement earrings as they can really finish off an outfit and make it pop. If you prefer unique pieces of jewellery, which really add an element of individuality, looking into rings with custom designs might be perfect for you. That way, nobody is going to have the same as you, and your outfit will be all the better for it!

Sunglasses

Tinted sunglasses are a hot trend, adding a pop of colour and a retro vibe to your look. Think oversized frames in bright hues like orange, pink, or even translucent shades.

These sunglasses can be matched with your outfit for a coordinated look or chosen in a contrasting colour to make a bold statement.

For a more classic approach, cat-eye frames and aviators continue to be trendy options that suit a variety of face shapes and personal styles. I don’t think you can go wrong with a bold pair of shades and a bright red lip! It’s a combo I love! Plus, it saves you having to do your eye makeup when it’s hot out.

Bags

A great bag is both practical and stylish, and this season’s trends cater to both needs. Oversized bags are particularly popular, providing ample space for all your essentials while making a strong style statement.

For instance, there’s the Borse Tote by Balenciaga, which is functional as well as high-fashion. Tote bags are generally great because they will let you carry everything, including your laptops and everyday items, while still being chic.

Textured bags, such as those with shearling, weaving or quilted finishes, add a tactile element to your outfit. The hobo bag, with its slouchy, relaxed shape, is another versatile choice that complements both casual and more polished looks.

I still love simple and elegant cross-body bags though as they never go out of fashion, but the trendiest pieces right now as the oversized wicker basket bags! I’m seeing those everywhere, from so many brands.

Belts

Belts are a simple yet effective way to cinch your waist and add structure to your outfit. Wide belts are especially on-trend this season, perfect for creating an hourglass silhouette when worn over blazers or dresses.

Corset belts are also making a comeback, providing a dramatic and fashionable way to define your waist. Pairing a wide belt with an A-line dress or a long coat can instantly elevate your look from basic to chic.

Statement and branded buckle belts are also a classic that are always on trend. I’m personally loving the elegance of a simple designer logo on a leather belt – you cannot go wrong!