The Power of Accessories: Elevate Your Style with These Simple Tips

Introduction: The Magic of Accessories

In the world of fashion, it's often said that the devil is in the details. While a great outfit forms the foundation of your look, it's the accessories that truly bring it to life. From a statement scarf to a classic watch, the right accessories can transform a simple ensemble into a head-turning style statement. Think of Audrey Hepburn in breakfast at Tiffany’s, a simple black (albeit Givenchy) dress, a sensational pair of school sunglasses a string of pearls and an incredible hat = cinema and style history. But how do mere mortals work this magic, and pick the correct accessory additions to make such a big impact? We are going to give you a simple overview, let's dive into the world of accessorizing and unlock the secrets to help you elevate your style.

Why Accessories Matter: The Style Multiplier Effect

Versatility: One Outfit, Endless Possibilities

Accessories are the chameleons of your wardrobe. With just a few key pieces, you can completely transform the look and feel of an outfit.

You can take a pair of jeans, a white tee and a cashmere jumper, Pair it with pearls, loop the jumper around your shoulders and add ballet style pump for a classic look, or add a chunky necklace, roll the sleeve on the jumper, throw on a chunky cuff, add a belt and a half tuck, and add a pair of trainers for an edgy vibe. The possibilities are endless, and all without changing your core base outfit. This is the thing I personally love most about accessories, their ability to elevate and switch up outfits.

Personal Expression: Your Style, Your Story

While clothing often follows certain trends or dress codes, accessories offer a unique opportunity for personal expression. Whether it's a vintage brooch inherited from a beloved grand-parent, or a quirky pair of earrings that caught your eye in an antique market, accessories tell your story and showcase your personality in a way that clothing alone cannot. Accessories are the unsung heroes of an outfit

Cost-Effective Style Boost

Investing in high-quality accessories can be more economical than constantly updating your entire wardrobe. A well-chosen handbag from Barkworth Reeve or a glamorous pair of timeless sunglasses can elevate multiple outfits, giving you more bang for your buck and helping you make the most of your existing wardrobe.

The Key Accessories That’ll help you pack a Style Punch

Jewellery: The Ultimate Personal Statement

Jewellery is perhaps the most versatile and expressive of all accessories, loaded with sentimentality and meaning, they can be a huge financial investment, or a bit of frivolous fun. From delicate necklaces to bold earrings, cocktail rings to layered bangles, jewellery can completely transform an outfit.

When choosing jewellery, consider the proportions of your outfit, the occasion, and the feeling you want to convey. Remember, sometimes a single standout piece can be more impactful than multiple items competing for attention. You don’t want to look like a Christmas tree, but equally don’t be worried about trying new jewellery combinations, experiment with layering fine necklaces together, stacking rings, mixing genuine stones with antique paste stones. Have fun and see what makes you feel good.

Watches: More Than Just Timekeepers

A quality watch is not just functional; it's a style statement. The advent on wearing technology (hello iPhone watch and Aura ring) in our opinion is no substitute for the real thing. From sleek petite minimalist designs to luxurious oversized timepieces, a watch can add sophistication and polish to any outfit. It's also one of the few accessories that are universally accepted in all settings, and where you can borrow your partners to give you a new look.

Scarves: The Versatile Virtuosos

Scarves are perhaps the most versatile accessories in your arsenal. From chunky knit wools, to elegant diaphanous silk such as our Barkworth Reeve Silk Cosmos, They can add a pop of colour, create and add an interesting texture to an outfit, transform the neckline of a top, or even be worn as a piece of clothing. Learn a few tying techniques (we have a blog post and tutorial coming out on this soon!), and you'll have an accessory that can be worn dozens of ways, which you can roll, tie, wrap or drape.

Belts: Defining Silhouettes

Never underestimate the power of a good belt. Beyond just holding up your trousers, belts can cinch in waists creating an hourglass silhouette, add contrast to an outfit, or change your proportions by drawing attention to the bits you like and away from the bits you aren’t so keen on! Whether is a sleek skinny leather belt which creates an interesting juxtaposition with a flowy dress, or a statement belt which becomes the focal point of a simple jeans-and-tee combo, don’t overlook the humble belt as an essential piece in your accessory’s arsenal.

Handbags: Functional Fashion

Your handbag is more than just a place to store your essentials; it's a key part of your overall look. We at Barkworth Reeve believe investing in a high-quality bag in a neutral colour can elevate your outfits for years to come. It’s a short cut to looking instantly more polished. We have designed a range of styles which you can dress up or down, and which will be an amazing investment for you, our current range of bags can be found here.

If you want to mix it up with bags don't be afraid to experiment with accessorising your bag itself, adding scarves, bag charms, or switching up straps or the way you carry it. Also consider looking at interesting new materials textures, or a new shape. If you have a relaxed style why not try a more structured bag to contrast an aesthetic – you can be brave with a bag in the way you might not be with an item of clothing. Think about the colours that complement your personal style, skin tone and the materials which work with your lifestyle.

Hats: Crowning Glory

Often overlooked, hats can be a game-changer in your accessory closet. From our stunning fedoras to berets, wide-brimmed sun hats to our cosy bobble hats, the right hat can add instant polish or a touch of whimsy to any outfit. Hats not only serve practical purposes like sun protection, protecting you from the driving rain (click here to see our stunning waxed hat), or keeping you warm on a bitter day, but they also frame your face and can even change the perceived proportions of your outfit. When choosing a hat, consider your face shape, the occasion, and the overall vibe of your outfit. Think about the colour of the hat – does the colour make your eyes sparkle, if it drains your face of colour, or makes you look washed out then you need (not necessarily a different colour) but a different tone of that colour. Think about how you want to feel (cosy, warm, sophisticated, protected from the rain!) and the overall aesthetic you want to convey. Be brave and give a hat a go!

Socks: The Hidden Style Heroes

Don't underestimate the power of a great pair of socks! While often hidden, socks can add an unexpected pop of colour or pattern when revealed. They're perfect for injecting personality into more conservative looks, like suits or uniforms, and they add an element of fun and humour when popping out of a pair of boots. Colourful or patterned socks can be a great way to tie together different elements of your outfit or add a playful touch to an otherwise serious look. For a more subtle approach, focus on texture and function – a fine bamboo sock will keep your feet cool, a loop back trainer sock will vanish under a trainer but stop it rubbing (and your feet sweating). A ribbed wool options looks sensational wrapping over the top of a book, and adds texture without drawing too much attention.

8. Eyewear: Framing Your Face

Glasses and sunglasses are more than just practical items – they're powerful style statements that can define your entire look. The right pair of frames can accentuate your best features, complement your face shape, and express your personality.

Everyday Glasses

If you wear prescription glasses, they are part of your style. Choose frames that complement your face shape and personality style. Bold, chunky frames can make a statement and add an intellectual or artistic vibe to your look. Equally they can help detract attention away from a feature you aren’t keen on (I for example have massive cheeks – so I never ever go for a round frame – they make me look like Penfold from Danger-mouse!) Sleek, minimalist frames can lend a professional, sophisticated air and appear to vanish. Don't be afraid to have multiple pairs to suit different occasions, moods or activities.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are the ultimate cool-factor accessory. Beyond protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, they can add mystery, glamour, or edginess to any outfit. Classic styles like aviators or wayfarers are versatile and timeless. For a bolder look, try oversized frames or unique shapes that complement your face. I always think you can be bolder with a sunglasses frame than you can a standard prescription style.

When choosing sunglasses, consider the colour of the frames and how they'll work with your skin tone, and your hair. Black or tortoiseshell frames are versatile, while coloured frames can add a fun pop to neutral outfits.

Remember, both glasses and sunglasses sit front and centre on your face, so choose wisely. They should feel like an extension of your personal style, and should heighten and elevate your style, don’t just add them as a after afterthought, think of them as the cherry on the top of the bun!

How to Choose and Style Accessories

Consider Your Body Type

Just like clothing, certain accessories work better with certain body types. Long necklaces can elongate a short torso, while chunky bracelets can balance out broader shoulders. Hats should be chosen based on your face shape – for example, those with round faces might opt for angular hats to create contrast. Understanding your body type can help you choose accessories that enhance your natural features. Think about what you want to elevate and highlight.

Balance is Key

When it comes to accessories, sometimes less is more. If you're wearing statement earrings, consider keeping your necklace simple. If you're sporting a bold hat, you might want to tone down your other accessories. The goal is to create a harmonious and balanced look where each piece complements the others.

Coordinate, Don't Match

Gone are the days when every accessory had to match perfectly. Instead, aim for coordination. Your metals don't all have to be the same finish, and your leathers don't have to be identical shades. Mixing and matching creates a more interesting, curated look.

Invest in Quality Basics

While trendy pieces can be fun, investing in high-quality, timeless accessories will serve you well in the long run. A classic leather Barkworth Reeve bag and a tan leather belt, a pair of pearl earrings, or a sleek watch and an amazing flattering pair of sunglasses are pieces that will elevate your outfits for years to come.

5. Don't Forget About Texture

Accessories are a great way to introduce interesting textures into your outfit. A crocodile texture handbag such as our Ambridge Bag, a silk scarf, or our knitted Bobble Hat can add depth and interest to your look, even if you're sticking to a monochromatic colour scheme. Don't overlook the texture of your socks either – a ribbed or cable-knit texture can add subtle interest to your outfit. Even with eyewear, consider the finish of your frames – matte, glossy, or metallic textures can all contribute to your overall look.

6. Use Eyewear to Enhance Your Features

Your choice of glasses or sunglasses can significantly impact how your features are perceived. For example, if you have a round face, angular frames can add definition. If you have a strong jawline, rounded frames can soften your look. Pay attention to the size of the frames as well – they should be in proportion to your face and shouldn’t over whelm. Try lots of shapes – you may surprise yourself!

7. Consider the Occasion

While personal style is important, also consider the context when choosing your accessories. A sleek pair of sunglasses might be perfect for a summer brunch, while a pair of elegant metal framed glasses could be more suited for a business meeting. A statement hat might be great for a weekend outing but could be too much for a lunch with the girls! Always consider where you're going and what you'll be doing when selecting your accessories.

Conclusion: Your Style, Elevated

Accessories are the secret weapon of the style-savvy. They have the power to transform you and your outfits, express your personality, and elevate your overall look and how you feel about yourself. By understanding how to choose and style accessories effectively, you can make the most of your wardrobe and truly let your personal style shine.

Remember, the most important accessory is confidence and a smile – I know it sounds cliched but its true. Wear pieces that make you feel great, and you'll radiate from the inside out. Be brave and experiment with different accessories (you can do this in your home on your own until you feel confident you’ve nailed it!), and watch as they elevate your style and confidence to new heights.