***This post was contributed and may contain affiliate links. You know those women who always look beautifully put together, as though they have their own pro stylist on call? Chances are, they don’t have someone picking out their outfits but just simply have learned how to accessorize like a pro.
The truth is, the right accessories make any outfit look better and more polished. The good news: with a little creativity and some practice, you will look perfect every time you leave the house. Give these 7 tips a go to see what you can come up with! Happy accessorizing!
Accessorize Like a Pro #1: Complement Your Outfit
You should (almost) always choose accessories that complement the outfit you’re wearing and your own coloring, as much as possible. One mistake that a lot of women make is that they choose accessories that are the same color as their outfit. This creates a dull look without contrast. If you’re not sure which colors are complementary, check out an artist’s color wheel for guidance. Of course, there are always exceptions to every rule, especially with fashion. Play around to see what you love the most!
Accessorize Like a Pro #2: Use Proper Proportion
When you’re buying jewelry and accessories, take your body size into account. For example, if you’re a tall, curvy lady, wearing a skinny belt can make you look bigger. And, if you’re a small petite woman, wearing chunky jewelry could overwhelm your frame. Getting the right hoops, belts, and bags for your body type is essential to creating your special look.
Accessorize Like a Pro #3: Be Age Appropriate
Know this: you can look absolutely beautiful at any age, but it’s important to find and wear what fits your personality and season of life. You might love that cute Hello Kitty barrette, but if you’re over the age of 21, it would be a little out of sync with your maturity level. On the other hand, wearing really conservative pearls or stud earrings can age a young woman. I’m all for playing and experimenting with fun accessories, but do it with class and consideration of who you are as a woman.
Accessorize Like a Pro #4: Mix Metals
If you want to create a truly eye-striking look, without going over the top and moving into tacky territory, mixing your metals can work well. Wear a mixture of rose gold, silver, and yellow gold, perhaps stacked around your wrist. It creates an interesting focal point for your outfit. I am actually wearing this look right now!
Accessorize Like a Pro #5: Wear Sunglasses
If your outfit is missing a bit of glam, pop on a big pair of celebrity style sunglasses. They give any look an edge and a more pulled together feel. Additionally, quality sunglasses can make your outfit appear more expensive than it really is. As a bonus, they’ll cover any dark circles, wrinkles and fine lines you don’t want to show.
Accessorize Like a Pro #6: Don’t Forget Hair and Nails
Accessorizing isn’t just about necklaces, rings, and bracelets. It’s also about the hair and nails. Hairbands, barrettes and even some well-placed streaks of hair color can elevate your overall look. Even not doing your hair and wearing a hat or scarf is a perfect way to show some personality.
If you have the time, try to paint your nails to complement your outfit or accessories. Classic neutral colors are always in style if you don’t care for colorful polish. You can also opt for nail wraps that come in styles to fit every personality.
Accessorize Like a Pro #7: Don’t Overdo It
Although the other tips will help you avoid fashion faux pas in the accessories department, this one is the most important. If you’re an accessory junkie, you may be tempted to decorate every part of your body. But, trust me, more is not necessarily better in this case.
Choose a couple of key pieces, like a nice pair of earrings and a bracelet. Accentuate the areas you want to be seen. Always give yourself the once over and see what doesn’t belong. Chances are you will find one extraneous accessory that, when removed, will elevate your look.