6 Accessories That Elevate Simple Outfits

You don’t always need to wear snazzy, luxe clothes to look stylish. Sometimes, even small tweaks to your existing outfit can amp up your appearance. And that’s where accessories come in. Things like sunglasses, bags, and belts add a certain flair, expression, and personality to your overall look—something that clothes alone may not be able to do. But remember, with accessories, excessive is not always the way to go. You must pick the right pieces.

Bags

Perhaps no accessory is as practical as a bag, especially for women, given that dresses with pockets are still less common. But practicality aside, bags are also incredible statement-makers. The right one doesn’t just carry essentials; it completes an outfit, adds structure, and can even change your entire vibe. That’s why the style of bag you choose matters greatly.

For starters, always pick bags that complement your outfit rather than stand out. Buying something with a neutral shade, such as black or cream, is a good idea as it will complement almost any outfit and style.

The next thing to consider is the type of bag. A clutch bag is a good choice for special occasions. You can choose a sleek, metallic one if you want it to stand out. For breezy days in a flowy pastel maxi dress, nothing beats a roomy tote. It’s practical and chic—the kind of accessory that ties your look together without even trying.

Belts

A sleek belt can do more for an outfit than most people realize. It effortlessly defines the waist, adds structure, and gives an instant upgrade to dresses, tunics, and even oversized shirts. Belts are also among the best accessories for mature women who want to create the perfect silhouette. The late Diane Keaton had practically written the style rulebook on creating that elegant silhouette, and belts were her go-to option.

When picking belts, go for neutral shades like tan or black. These never go out of style and always complement your outfit. For a little more flair, get a belt with a shiny buckle.

Earrings

With your years of experience with fashion and styling, you’d be no stranger to the impact earrings can have. Even when they’re only partially visible behind the hair, they’re enough to add that sparkle and make a statement. Yes, there are way too many styles of earrings to choose from, but you can hardly ever go wrong with classic pearl or diamond studs. They’re the kind that can be worn to everything—casual lunches and formal dinners alike. Medium-sized hoops in gold or silver can be great choices when you want to add a touch of softness to your look. And if you have gray or silver hair, these work even better.

Quirky earrings—like those with beads or tiny wooden artworks—are also great if you want to get creative. Among all the statement jewelry pieces for older women, these are the ones that can really stand out. But make sure to still pick them as per the outfit and occasion.

Sunglasses

Few accessories can make someone look instantly put-together like a great pair of sunglasses. They’re the ultimate blend of fashion and function. Don a cool pair, and you’ll be protecting your eyes while adding a touch of style that’s impossible to overlook.

Classic shapes, such as cat-eye or aviator frames, have always been flattering, so you can barely ever go wrong with those. When it comes to the shade of the frame, a tortoiseshell finish pairs well with just about any outfit. Of course, a dark, neutral shade, such as black, also fits perfectly, but the former just adds more expression to the accessory.

Sunglasses suit both men and women. For men, timeless frames, such as wayfarers, aviators, and sleek rectangular designs, have always been in style and likely will remain so.

Scarves

Scarves can also be among the best fashion accessories, especially for women over 60. You might’ve seen that Diane Keaton usually donned those around her neck—and she looked stunning in them. The thing with scarves, draped around the neck, is that they not only comfort the neck but also elevate your entire outfit. Lightweight silk or chiffon scarves can especially add a touch of luxe and sophistication to even the simplest look.

Draping around the neck is not the only way to use a scarf. In fact, you don’t even always have to have it on yourself. Tie it to your bag and you’ll instantly give a Parisian flair to your outfit. Look for a combination of elegant scarves and bags that complement each other perfectly.

Hats

Another accessory that’s both practical and fashionable when styled right is a hat. The practical aspect is, of course, that it protects you from the sun. But beyond that, hats have that rare ability to transform a simple outfit into a stylish ensemble. A wide-brimmed hat, for instance, can be perfectly paired with a sundress for a breezy, summer-themed look. Likewise, a classic fedora can be the cherry on top for a smart-casual look. For men, Panama hats can be perfect, especially when worn with formal attire.