Tallahassee doesn’t leave much opportunity for individuality, but with a little creativity you can have a wardrobe that will have you setting the hottest trends of the fall, instead of following them.
Now in 2007, it is all about knowing how to accessorize your ensemble. The smallest accessory can make or break the simplest outfits. An accessory is simply anything that can enhance an outfit. Accessories are not limited to just jewelry but also includes hats, glasses/sun glasses, backpacks, purses and shoes.
According to William Brister, an online fashion journalist for menswear.tv, accessories are key elements to enhance an outfit. Brister said, “With trends changing, accessories have not only become fashionable but an essential part of a man’s ensemble. Accessories not only give the wardrobe a complete and definite look, but transform a simply outfit to a classy and stylish one.”
For example, if you start an outfit with a simple white top and denim bottom, it can easily be taken to the next level by adding a few accessories.
Guys, it is common to choose to wear white tennis shoes with a white shirt, but to add some flavor to the outfit try pairing boots, a “loud” color or a vivid designed sneaker. The contrast will balance out the outfit without overpowering it, keeping in mind that everything does not have to be color coordinated. To complete the look, you can add a unique backpack or messenger bag that has more character than your average bag, but also correlates with your outfit.
Ladies, the same scenario applies. You can pair a white blouse with a denim bottom. However to add flair to the outfit choose skinny jeans that will show off a pump or sneaker. Preferably, wearing a peak toe shoe that can transcend through seasons is a good idea. You can also pair this outfit with an oversized bag.
Bridget Allan, a noted fashion stylist who has worked with Patricia Arquette, Angelina Jolie and Ewan McGregor, said choosing a bag is like selecting a great pair of jeans. Allan said the bag should fit your body type and style. The shape of the bag shouldn’t match your figure; instead choose one just the opposite. For example, if you are tall and thin select a bigger bag. The rounder your figure, the more structured your bag should be. Rectangular or square silhouettes are great bags.
With jewelry, if you want to wear a chunky necklace, pair it with a stud or button earring. In contrast, wear earrings that gain attention from the eye, paired with a simple strand necklace, or not one at all. This rule will help you avoid looking gaudy or cheap when accessorizing using jewelry.
Keep in mind that when it comes to accessorizing an outfit, the accessory does not have to be the same color as your ensemble. Certain colors compliment each other when put together properly.
Don’t be afraid to take risk when putting colors together and accessorizing what you decide to wear. Remember that what you wear is a reflection of your personality. Wear accessories that depict you.
Don’t forget, you are what you wear.
Tobias Chappell is a senior public relations student from Norfolk, Va. Lindsey Johnson is a sophomore public relations student from Orlando. They can be reached at famualifestyles@hotmail.com.