Learning the Different Types of Accessories
If you’re looking to start accessorizing, there are several types of accessories that can add flair to your outfits, elevate your style, and let your personality shine. In this chapter, we cover the different types of accessories, how you can mix and match them within your wardrobe and offer ideas for building a library of useful accessories for yourself.
There are tons of accessories to choose from, but we’ll cover these nine general types of accessories:
- Bags
- Shoes
- Jewelry
- Hats
- Hair accessories
- Belts
- Eyewear
- Scarves
- Seasonal
Each accessory category can be used by itself or in infinite combinations with others on the list. For example, something as simple as swapping sandals for a pair of heels can take an outfit to the next level. As you learn how to accessorize your clothes, you'll start to see the way you can play with size, color, and groupings to make a bold statement or keep things simple depending on your mood.
1. Bags
Bags aren't just a practical way to carry your things when you're running errands or out on the town. Different types of bags can make a fashion statement when combined with your wardrobe. Types of bags include:
- Purses
- Shoulder bags
- Crossbody bag
- Satchels
- Totes
- Clutches
- Backpacks
- Wristlets
- Belt bags
There are countless other bag styles as well and you’ll likely need several bags to accessorize different outfits. For example, you may want to have a bold clutch on hand to match your understated eveningwear and a neutral crossbody bag for running errands. Meanwhile, a woven tote is perfect for summertime trips to the beach or pool.Â
2. Shoes and Footwear
Shoes are essential for your wardrobe, but they can also make a statement. Common footwear styles include: Â
- Sneakers or tennis shoes
- Flats
- Flip flops
- Sandals
- Heels and pumps
- Kitten heels
- Boots
- BootiesÂ
Of course, there are more shoe options than we can list here and footwear comes in all kinds of colors, styles, and materials. You’ll always want shoes that can fit into different aspects of your life, such as a pair of sneakers for the gym, sandals for the summer, boots for the winter, and a good pair of heels to dress up an outfit.
Don't forget socks! You can accessorize outfits of all kinds with patterned dress socks, knee-high socks in an interesting color, and more.
3. Jewelry
Jewelry offers a ton of versatility, including:Â
- Necklaces
- Rings
- Earrings
- Bracelets
- Watches
The ways you can accessorize jewelry are endless, depending on your outfit and personal style. For example, you might wear a small pendant on a chain to the office but a diamond choker when you're at an event.
4. Hats
Hats are the perfect example of an accessory that combines form and function. Like most types of clothing accessories, hats can be casual or dressy depending on the style:
- Sunhats
- Fedoras
- Cloches
- Beanies
- Visors
- Panama hats
- Baseball caps
Hats can shield a questionable hair day while running errands or can be incorporated into your overall look for a Kentucky Derby party.
5. Hair Accessories
Hair accessories can adorn your hairstyle without adding a hat. Common hair accessories are:
- Scrunchies
- Headbands
- Hairpins
- Hair clips
- Hair ties
- Ribbons
- Headscarves
- Headpieces
Whether you're pulling your hair back into a practical pony or styling it for a night on the town, you should have a few hair accessories in your arsenal.
6. Belts
Belts aren’t just a practical way to hold up your pants. Wear a belt over a dress or blouse to add fashionable flair. Some popular types of belts include:
- Skinny belts
- Embossed belts
- Rhinestone belts
- Corset beltsÂ
Casual belts go great with jeans, and you can add a decorative belt over a plain dress to enhance your style.
7. Eyewear
For many women, eyewear is essential. If you wear prescription glasses, you probably know that different styles and colors can impact your fashion statement. And, in many cases, sunglasses can be a must-have accessory on sunny days.
8. Scarves
Decorative scarves are seeing a comeback in fashion, and the good news is they come in all colors, materials, and sizes. Choose a handmade silk scarf or opt for a woven scarf in a bold print. Wear it in your hair, around your neck, or tie it to a bag for a pop of color.
9. Seasonal Accessories
And finally, we want to discuss seasonal accessories. These are typically worn on cold weather days and can include knit or wool scarves, gloves, hats, or outerwear. Just because you have to bundle up in the winter doesn't mean you can't look stylish doing it. You can choose scarves, hats, and gloves that match our winter coat and add color or texture when you're out in the cold.
