Fashion accessories are that little something extra that take a look to the next level. They’re those personal, finishing touches that subtly show that you put time and effort into how you look.
That said, accessories should always be just that: an accessory. Your outfit should stand alone without an added bangle or bracelet. Those things can elevate your look, but they shouldn’t be the majority of your focus.
(That’s why we always recommend our clients have a solid wardrobe foundation. Think essential basics, and working within our patented NLW Style System so they never have to worry about what they’re going to wear each day.)
So today, we’re walking you through those finishing touches that act as the cherry on top of an already great outfit. We’ll explain why these pieces work and even share our product recommendations to save you that extra step.
Table of Contents
1. Luxe Earrings
If you have pierced ears, consider accessorizing outfits with a pair of luxe earrings.
We’re talking about simple, minimalistic, well-made earrings that give your look a shine or sparkle.
Take a look at the demure gold hoops NLW founder Cassandra Sethi is wearing above. They bring focus to her face without distracting from what she has to say.
Product by Agmes, shop here.
If you’re looking for a fresh pair of hoops for your collection, try these from Agmes. They have just a dash of drama thanks to their voluminous shape. But, they’re still clean and simple.
Dress Codes: All
2. Wrist Watches
Product by Cartier, shop here.
We know smartwatches dominate wristwear these days. But there’s nothing as timeless or as chic as a real wristwatch.
Smartwatches have loads of practical features but let’s face it, most of them don’t look that good. A lot of them come with silicone or cloth bands that read sporty, which is fine if you’re at the gym.
But if you’re at an executive meeting, giving a keynote, or lunching with a new client, an analog watch gives you credibility.
(That’s why we especially recommend analog wristwatches to young professionals who want to look older for work. Show your superiors that you know how to be polished and put together with a paired back, classic, mature watch.)
Product by Cartier, shop here.
What dress codes is this for? All
On the hunt for the right timepiece? Try accessorizing outfits with this dainty yet well-made watch from legacy brand Cartier.
We love this watch for its look: small, unassuming, elegant. So many watches (especially luxury pieces) can feel too bulky or bold. With the two-tone from Cartier, you don’t have to worry about that.
Plus, you can rest assured that it’ll keep ticking thanks to its expert Swiss craftsmanship.
3. Leather Belts
Stumped on how to accessorize? Belts have your back.
We all know the functional purpose of a belt: to keep your pants up. But that’s not why belts make our list of favorite fashion accessories.
We love belts because they are a quick, instant way to transform an outfit.
Take a look at the photo above. Notice how that black leather belt pulls the whole look together? The color ties into the shirt and shoes, while also matching the leather texture of the skirt.
On top of that, it defines the waist. Without the belt, this look might have felt too shapeless. But the belt easily balances out the length of the blazer and draws the eye upward.
Product by The Row, shop here.
What dress codes is this for? All
But before you go filling your closet with belts, remember: a belt is an accessory, not a necessity. It’s good to have in your arsenal, but it shouldn’t become the focal point of your wardrobe.
That’s why we encourage you to get a good, basic, black leather belt. They go with everything, which means you can buy one and be done.
Just be sure to get a quality-made one, from a trusted brand. Like this thin option from The Row. It’s just enough to cinch in a dress or pair of pants without becoming a distraction.
4. Cashmere Scarves
One of our favorite women’s winter accessories is a good cashmere scarf.
We dedicate whole lists to Cashmere scarves because they’re functional, chic, and timeless.
Cashmere is one of those wonder fabrics that may seem like an investment upfront but makes up for it in no time.
Cashmere wool is moisture-wicking, naturally breathable, and even has some antibacterial properties. (This is a huge plus considering you don’t want to wash cashmere too often.)
It’s supremely soft and keeps you warm without feeling like you’re wearing a hundred layers.
Plus, there are plenty of ways to tie a cashmere scarf so you can mix up your ensembles without having to buy a bunch of accessories.
Product by Arch4, shop here.
What dress codes is this for? All
If you don’t own a Cashmere scarf just yet, consider this responsibly sourced cashmere wool scarf from Arch4.
For those worried about having a more sustainable wardrobe, Arch4 allows you to enjoy cashmere without guilt. Their handcrafted pieces like this scarf don’t waste water and don’t harm animals in the process.
Grab one in a neutral color like the Black one pictured above for a versatile piece you can pop on top of any outfit.
Dress Codes: All
5. Minimal Bracelets
Watches not your style?
Then a minimal bracelet could be the perfect fashion accessory for you.
We love subtle, barely-there bracelets as another way to brighten up your look and add personality. There are just two things you should keep in mind.
One: watch your sleeves. Some people find it easier to wear bracelets in the summer or warmer months because they don’t have to fuss with their bracelets getting caught on sweater sleeves or jackets.
If you do wear your bracelet with a long sleeve, try to avoid wristlets with charms or lots of sharp-edged gems. Pushing up your sleeves when you’re at the office or indoors is another way to keep your bracelets from competing with your top.
Two: pick the right bracelet!
Product by LIÉ STUDIO, shop here.
What dress codes is this for? All
We recommend going for something like this no-frills bangle from LIÉ STUDIO. It’s sleek, simple, and timeless. You don’t have to worry about them not matching any outfits or getting in the way of your movements.
6. Ring Stacks
Ring stacks are the new, flexible way to accessorize your hands. If you’re not familiar with ring stacking, the idea is to wear multiple rings on the same finger on your hand. Check out the image above and you can see different ways to go about this.
You could wear three rings close together on one finger or stagger them across different knuckles.
The key here is to go with minimalistic ring designs. In our opinion, trying to stack multiple chunky or statement rings just weighs down your look and starts to feel sloppy.
Instead, opt for thin or simple bands without too many added gems or designs.
Product by Roxanne Assoulin, shop here.
Want to make outfit accessories simpler? Try this duo from Roxanne Assoulin. These rings come in a set so you don’t have to worry about coordinating and balancing different rings.
The textured look adds visual excitement and makes it easy to partner this piece with any outfit or other fashion accessory.
Dress Codes: All
Accessories, fashion, and even the scent you wear are all a part of your personal brand. They tell other people who you are and what you’re about before you even have a conversation.
Want to make the most out of your first impressions? Apply for Next Level Wardrobe’s Image consulting services. Our style experts will work with you to create a personalized style plan to match your lifestyle and take your career to new heights.
