Must-Have Fashion Accessories

Whenever one thinks of elevating their style or upgrading their look in accordance with the fashion trends of the time, the first element they focus on is the clothes. Outfits are prioritized when one wants to elevate their look and create a lasting impact. And it is true, what one is wearing is the first thing to catch the viewer’s eye. However, it is not the only thing. A painting would appear incomplete without detailing. A house does not become a home until one decorates and personalizes it with their valuable possessions. Similarly, an outfit does not gain its edge unless it is appropriately accessorized. Regardless of how fashionable, stylish, or innovative an outfit is, it appears incomplete without appropriate accessories to complement it. It is also a common misconception that in order to look stylish, contemporary, and fashionable, one needs to invest in expensive garments. Even the most trending and beautiful garments would appear dull in the absence of accessories. Fashion accessories are an inexpensive and reusable way of making any outfit appealing and eye-catching. Sometimes adding a statement watch or a dainty necklace does more for one’s appearance and confidence than a designer outfit. 

How to Choose the Right Accessory

When it comes to accessories, the first categorisation people fixate upon is the gendered nature of fashion accessories. However, it is important to understand that everyone has their personal style that goes beyond the male-female binary. Confidence is gender neutral and one can wear any accessory they want irrespective of its assigned gender if it makes them feel ready to take over the world. Especially in today’s times when gender barriers are being removed left, right, and centre, the opportunity is ripe to be as experimental as one can be and express their true self through fashion. One can also see this trend emerging in popular culture wherein celebrities like Harry Styles have challenged the idea of dualist clothing and accessories. Therefore, instead of choosing an accessory that is socially mandated to align with one’s gender, one should choose a fashion accessory that makes one feel the most exuberant. 

Must-Have Fashion Accessories

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are where need meets style. They are versatile pieces of accessories because not only do they look chic and stylish, but they also protect the most important sense organ of the body, the eyes, from being damaged by harmful UV rays. Sunglasses are available for all occasions ranging from casual to formal. Moreover, they are available in multifarious sizes and quirky styles. They are also a celebration of the diversity of faces in this world and come in a variety of shapes that complement one’s facial structure. Round, square, heart, or oval, there is a pair of sunglasses for every face. Moreover, sunglasses can be worn all year round and are perennial. 

Watches

Time will always be of utmost essence for any human being. Axiomatically, watches would also always be of the essence. There was a time when people would carry small circular clocks with chains in their pockets. Today one can wear them on their wrists. Watches are all rounder accessories. They can add sophistication as well as a quirk to an outfit. Many believe that a person’s character or personality is reflected by the kind of watch they wear. Therefore, watches are an indispensable accessory that not only elevates one’s style but also their personality. A wide variety of watches in the market do more than tell time. While those who prescribe a minimalist lifestyle may opt for simplistic analogue watches, those who like to be in trend with the times and technology may choose digital watches. Simplistic minimalist watches add sophistication to any outfit and look particularly astounding with formal wear. Digital watches complement a casual outfit better. Lately, fitness bands have taken over the market. Not only have people accepted them as a health measure, but also as a symbol of elevated socioeconomic status. Analog, digital, minimalist, or maximalist watches have been fashion accessories since their invention. 

Tote Bags

Tote bags are the latest rage in the fashion accessory market. Affordable, minimalist, and useful tote bags have gained immense popularity among students. They are light and practical bags with the capacity to carry all that one needs. The best thing about tote bags is that they can be carried anywhere and go together with most outfits. Moreover, they can be carried very comfortably which makes them ideal for students who often commute long distances and walk around the campus. What makes tote bags appealing to the young population is their gender-neutral nature. Tote bags made of recyclable or organic materials are also in demand right now which makes them an ecologically conscious fashion accessory. Not only do they make outfits funkier for college students, but they are also an ideal choice for people of all ages. 

Rings

Rings are a simple fashion accessory with huge potential. They add elegance and sophistication to the look. Even a fine, dainty ring can add a calming accent to one’s look and smoothen rough edges. It is no wonder that rings have been worn by people of all genders in South Asian cultures. They are central to the fashion and culture of South Asia. Borders do not limit the significance of rings. At weddings, rings are the accessory that holds central importance and reflects the couple’s commitment to each other. Rings made out of precious metals are not only a beautiful fashion accessory but also a smart economic investment. Since time immemorial such jewels have been a symbol of prosperity. There is no limit to the designs and styles of rings one can choose from. One can pair a heavy statement ring with traditional South Asian outfits or go for a more sophisticated and minimalist look with a simple band ring with formal wear. 

Belts

Usually, people use belts more for their functionality than for their looks. However, when used creatively, belts can do more than just hold one’s trousers in place. They can be paired with dresses to give them a more cinched and chic look. This happens to be an amazing hack for dresses that are a little too big for one’s size. Belted dresses also enhance the body shape. Belts are an indispensable fashion accessory for formal wear. It anchors the outfit together and imparts elegance and sophistication. It is also an unbreakable rule in fashion that while pairing a belt with formal wear, the color of the belt should match the color of the shoes. 

Chains or Necklaces

The neck is one of the most attractive and easily accessorized parts. South Asian tradition has seen both men and women flaunt chains and necklaces. In fact, most epic television shows of South Asian origin show gods and goddesses wearing abundant jewelry, necklaces being the centre of attention. Dainty chains add elegance to one’s appearance while adding an offbeat and edgy accent. One should choose a chain or a necklace that complements their personal sense of style instead of simply following the trend. They can also be paired with a beautiful pendant of choice to add charm to the chain. Thick or thin, elaborate or minimalist, chains are a must-have fashion accessory for everyone. 

Bracelets

From young kids to adults, bracelets are a popular favourite. The sheer versatility of bracelets makes them the preferred accessory for the majority of people. They are an ideal choice for instances where one wants to accessorize without drawing too much attention from their outfit. In case one wants to wear a statement bracelet that compensates for all other accessories, one can choose a detailed and heavy one to balance the outfit. Like most accessories, there is a complementing bracelet for every personality. One can choose a metallic bracelet if they are opting for a more sophisticated look, or they may choose a beaded one to complement a casual outfit. 

Footwear

While most fashion accessories are optional to wear, footwear is not. It is simply not possible for someone to step out without wearing some kind of footwear. This also makes footwear one of the most crucial aspects of an outfit. The kind of shoes one wears can elevate or destroy one’s appearance. The cultural importance of footwear reflects in the popular adage that one can know the character of a person by looking at their shoes. Undoubtedly, footwear is a must-have accessory. However, the kind of footwear one wears is of utmost importance. Sleek and polished leather-like shoes are ideal for formal wear. It is also considered a respectful practice in formal wear to have one’s toes covered. On the other hand, casual outfits do not make such demands. There is a wide variety of casual footwear ranging from sneakers, sandals, crocs, slippers, boots, and heels. People who wear heeled shoes would also find endless options like block heels, platform heels, stilettos, kitten heels, peep toes, pumps, etc. The choice of heels would differ from outfit to outfit and event to event. 

Accessories can make or break one’s ensemble. One mustn't get carried away and wear all possible accessories. It is important to limit accessories to bare essentials otherwise the ensemble looks chaotic and ill-planned. In fact, it is advised to take a look in the mirror and take off one accessory before leaving the house in order to keep the appearance balanced. These must-have fashion accessories are all one needs to create a wardrobe with accessories for all kinds of outfits. Accentuated outfits create an impact upon the viewer and positively impact one’s social image.