Oh, the power of accessories. Just when you thought you were safe with dark prints and wide leg trousers, you start to realize that the real power dressing lies in accessories. Those little extras can elevate a look and are often the way to make your staple wardrobe current and fashion forward. Take a look at the essential add-ons for this fall.
Statement bags are nice, but also sort of overexposed at this point. Bright bags are everywhere, and since fall will boast plenty of color and details like ruffles, buttons and hardware, a grey bag balances the chaos ($160, bananarepublic.com). Neutral bags have become just as relevant this season, and the key color to reach for is grey. Whether it’s slouchy and large or structured and compact, grey works with fall favorites like magenta, cobalt and even prints.
Look for a touch of grunge this fall season. Whether you throw on a fit and flattering plaid button-up or go all out with combat boots ($565, shopbop.com), adding a touch of grunge keeps things interesting, especially when you play with girlish pieces adorned with Cobain-worthy accessories.
Color and texture is the perfect place to experiment when it comes to that winter go-to item: tights. Opaque tights ($20, americanapparel.net) were all over the runways for F/W ‘08, and they’re perfect for pairing with stacked heels and flats. Colors like navy and wine are nice alternatives to black and grey.
Sometimes the best accessories include our makeup, and this season’s bright lips don’t take a backseat to any other beauty trend. Bright colors are usually reserved for spring and summer, but the trend is carrying over into fall by way of violet, magenta and crimson lips. Look for transfer-free shades ($14, nordstrom.com) that will stay put all the live-long day.
The name of the game is peep-toe booties ($355, Saks.com) for fall. Pick out a pair and wear them now with bare legs, and as the weather cools down, you can pull out your wardrobe of tights to keep your tootsies nice and toasty. Colored suede is big, but if the notion freaks you out (and yes, the yellow suede luring on Louboutins is freaking me out as well), stick with dark shades that are wearable and fresh.