| Using fashion accessories in different ways is one of | | | | Go Vintage |
| the easiest ways to make you look like you have a | | | | Beautiful accessories from a bygone era can evoke a |
| larger wardrobe than you do. By adding a scarf, | | | | sense of history and glamour. They can also save you |
| subtracting a belt, rotating shoes, etc., you can make a | | | | a ton of money. If you like designer accessories, look |
| small inventory of clothes look like a bottomless closet. | | | | for pieces from prior seasons in consignment or |
| But what if you have a "thing" (others might call it an | | | | vintage shops or online at places like eBay. Want |
| obsession) for a particular type of accessory -- like | | | | something really special? Show your fashion savvy by |
| hats, purses, or bracelets - that you just can't seem to | | | | wearing designers from the 1930's, 40's, or 50's. |
| get enough of? Own up to it. Profess it. Then use | | | | Go Italian |
| those pieces as your signature wardrobe item. It will | | | | Italy has been known for its sumptuous accessories |
| set you apart from the trend followers and give you a | | | | since the Crusades. Amazing shoes, beautiful evening |
| certain cachet. | | | | bags, luxurious jewelry - if you can afford it, pick up a |
| Just remember the basic rules of accessorizing: | | | | few pieces or request them as holiday, birthday, or |
| 1. Each outfit should only have ONE focal point, like a | | | | anniversary gifts. You can leave them to your |
| necklace, belt, or shoes. Don't make accessories | | | | fashionable heirs. |
| compete against each other for attention. | | | | Go Low Profile |
| 2. If the accessory is elaborate, keep the clothes | | | | If all of your friends are strutting around in their Jimmy |
| simple. Simple lines, simple colors, simple silhouette. It will | | | | Choos carrying Prada bags, try wearing pieces from a |
| provide the perfect backdrop for a drop-dead | | | | high talent/low profile designer instead. Being stylish isn't |
| gorgeous piece. | | | | about blinding following trends; it's about knowing how |
| 3. Keep accessories in the same mood as your | | | | to put together a pleasing aesthetic. |
| garment. Don't pair a summer day dress with an | | | | Go Local |
| evening clutch or a business suit with flip flops, for | | | | Local artisans often create beautiful pieces, but you |
| example. Wear casual clothes with casual | | | | have to know where to go to find them. Try small, |
| accessories, business clothes with business | | | | local boutiques, or visit craft shows in your area. |
| accessories, evening clothes with evening accessories. | | | | Fashion accessories are a great way to define your |
| Otherwise you'll look unschooled. | | | | style and stretch your budget, so why fight an interest |
| With that in mind, take your signature accessory to the | | | | in your favorite accessory? Embrace it and make it |
| next level by wearing artful, conversation-generating | | | | your signature. You'll look amazing and be able to |
| pieces. Here's how: | | | | enjoy the artistry of your favorite pieces. |