How to Accessorize: Expert Styling Tips to Elevate Your Look 

How to accessorize is a topic we absolutely need to talk about.

So, you were invited to a Tech Event and the dress code is a white T-Shirt and Jeans. Sounds so basic and too simple but  you slip on a white tee and a pale blue jean, some black sneakers maybe and you pack your hair into a messy bun and off you go.  

You get there and realize that even when everybody is wearing the same thing, You’re the only one looking…basic. How can people look so classy with just white tees and jeans? That is because they know how to accessorize any outfit. Accessories are like the fashion fairy dusts. A little sprinkle here,  a little sprinkle there and you are looking like a walking work of art.  Knowing how to accessorize outfits is like knowing how to ice a cake. The cake might be delicious but it needs the icing to look just as good as it taste.  

Okay, I’m rambling now. Let’s get straight into the tips. 

Welcome to the Art of Accessorizing; a guide for everyday fashionistas who want to go from “okay” to “oh hey!” with just a few stylish tweaks.  

Why Accessories Matter More Than You Think

Do you know you could wear the same black dress every Friday and still serve a new look each time? Just swap out your earrings, throw on a belt, or switch from sneakers to heels, layer with a jacket and boom! Your dress is brand new. 

Knowing how to accessorize would help you: 

• Express your personality (quirky, bold, classy, mysterious.)
• Elevate even the simplest outfit
• Tell your style story without saying a word

The Golden Rules of Accessorizing

Let’s keep it cute  and balanced. Here’s what you need to remember: 

Less is More (Sometimes)

If your earrings are screaming, let your necklace whisper. Pick one focal point. 

You’re wearing a sequined top, sparkly chandelier earrings, a glitter clutch, AND a bedazzled belt? Babes, one of those has to go. Pick your hero piece and build around it. That way, everything looks intentional  and not like your accessory drawer exploded. 

Pro tip: Step back from the mirror before leaving the house and ask, “Which piece is the loudest?” Then ask, “Do the others support her or are they fighting her?” 

 Occasion Matters

You cannot attend that board meeting with your 7 inch wide hoop earrings. Accessories are like guests at a party . Some are perfect for a quiet dinner, and some are here for the afterparty. Knowing where you’re going and what you’re doing is the cheat code to nailing your look every single time. 

You’re heading into a meeting with your boss, not a concert. Keep it polished and professional: 

• Small gold hoops or pearl studs = classy. 

• A dainty necklace = sophisticated. 

• A structured handbag = boss energy. 

Save the 7-inch hoops, jingly bangles, and neon clutch for girls’ night. The boardroom deserves your brilliance not your bling collection. 

Mix but Don’t Clash

Gold and silver can go together. Just make sure they’re paired perfectly. If you are having a hard time pairing the two metals, just stick to one and make it work. 

When you want to go ahead and pair however, there are some rules you need to follow. For example; If you are wearing a bag with gold hardware, make sure your belt or jewelry complements it. Same with silver zippers or buttons. If the base of your outfit leans warm, gold will pop. If it’s cooler (like greys or blues), silver hits just right. 

Pro tip: Use one metal as your dominant and the other as a supporting act. It’s not about splitting the spotlight 50/50 , it’s about looking curated or you’d just end up looking chaotic.

Own It

Confidence is your best accessory. Always. Remember the Tech Event that asked you to wear white tees and jeans and you went looking very basic? It has already happened, now is the time for you to own it. Keep your shoulders up and your head high and you’d definitely be exuding the same energy as the hot girl that wore Louboutin heels. Confidence is the spice you need to look your best. 

The Fabulous 7: Types of Accessories & How to Use Them

Jewelry – The OG Statement Maker

• Necklaces: Go for layered chains if you want to give off the cool girl vibe and a chunky piece when you’re feeling bossy. 

• Earrings: Studs are fir when you want a subtle slay. Go for hoops when you want to feel sexy. Use drops when you’re feeling fancy. 

• Rings/Bracelets: Stack then like pancakes or keep it dainty and delicate.

Bags

• Opt for a crossbody bag when you want to run quick errands

• Go for a Clutch bag for the glam life. Yunno, when the event is fancy and all.

• Tote bags are for when your whole house needs to come along. If you have a lot to pack with you then tote bags are probably what you need.

Bonus tip: A bold bag color can be the highlight of your look. Yes, hot pink is a neutral now.

Shoes

Flats, heels, sneakers, or boots, your shoes might even speak louder than your outfit. Make them count. If you are wearing a white shirt, trying wearing white shoes to tie your look together and look more coordinated. If you want to dress down, go for flats, sneakers, and sandals. If you want to dress up, go for heels and loafers. The right shoes can elevate your entire look.

Belts – For Snatching That Waist

Want shape? Belt it. Want structure? Belt it. Want drama? Belt it with flair. Belts create a nice layering to any outfit and will instantly make that dress look ten times better. Pro tip: Your belt and your shoes should be the same color if you want to look coordinated nad well put together.

Scarves

We are all sleeping on scarves. Wear it around your neck, on your bag, or in your hair. Instant Parisian energy. Scarfs can out a perfect finishing touch to any outfit you wear.

Hats & Hair Accessories – Crown Yourself

Wide-brim hats say “rich auntie.” Beaded clips say “cute but classy.” Headwraps say “don’t play with me today.” Just style them appropriately and you have succeeded in elevating your outfit.

Sunglasses

Even if the sun’s hiding, you don’t have to. Go bold with oversized frames or sleek with cat-eyes. Glasses -it doesn’t have to be sun glasses- has a way of adding class to any look. If you are going for an academia look, switch from sun glasses to clear lenses. 

 Accessorizing Based on Your Outfit Vibe

• Casual Look: Think denim, a graphic tee, hoops, and a colorful crossbody. 

• Office Fit: Minimalist studs, sleek watch, structured bag. Serve boss vibes. 

• Evening Slay: Bold earrings, a statement clutch, and strappy heels. 

• Street Style: Layered chains, dad sneakers, micro shades. Insta-worthy. 

• Traditional/Cultural Wear: Go regal with bold jewelry, headwraps, or heritage pieces that tell a story. 

How to Accessorize using Color Theory  

• Neutral outfit? Add colorful accessories (hello orange earrings!). 

• Colorful outfit? Let your accessories be subtle supporters. 

• Metallics: Gold warms up deeper tones. Silver slaps on cool tones. Rose gold is a soft flex. 

If you want to incorporate more colors to your outfits but you don’t know how, click here to learn how to style bold colors with confidence.

Trends vs Timeless: What to Keep on Deck

Trending Now:

• Chunky gold chains 

• Y2K-style hair clips 

• Layered rings 

• Beaded bags 

Timeless Pieces: 

• Pearl studs 

• Black leather bags 

• Silk scarves 

• Nude pumps 

Keep a mix so you’re always ready to slay. 

 How to Accessorize without Mistakes

• Wearing every accessory you own at once. This is not a festival. 

• Neglecting proportions. Big necklace + big earrings = chaos. 

• Ignoring the outfit vibe. Be one with the aesthetic. 

 Quick Styling Tips for the Everyday Queen

• Add one statement piece to any basic outfit. 

• Match your accessories to your mood . If you are feeling bold, go colorful. 

• When in doubt, sunglasses and hoops. Works every time. 

• Keep a small accessory kit in your bag: earrings, rings, a scarf. Style emergencies, handled. 

You’re the Main Character

Accessorizing is less about rules and more about expressing who you are. Don’t be afraid to mix it up, play dress-up, and walk out like you own the runway even if it’s just the aisle at the grocery store. 

Remember, confidence is the best accessory. But a good pair of earrings doesn’t hurt either. For more tips, check out this article on how to accessorize like a pro.