the sunday brief | back to basics | accessories

can you believe the ‘back to basics’ series is wrapping up this week? in january, we started with a closet cleanse to assess your current state of affairs with your closet essentials. then we navigated our way through wardrobe staples from tops to bottoms and outerwear. last but not least is accessories. in my humble opinion accessories is the key to stretch your wardrobe across all four seasons. better yet, they’re the icing on the cake and have nothing to do with our figure. and, most accessories last a lifetime (or until you decide to break up) so it’s safe to say they are investment pieces and worth every penny. these wardrobe essentials not only finish an outfit, they set the tone for your look. when you switch from a heel to a flat, crystal earrings to pearl studs or a casual hobo bag to a classically structured handbag you change the entire effect of the clothes you wear. how cool is that?! guess what? these extras are an easy way to add your personality to your wardrobe. but a girl has to start somewhere so i’ve rounded up the items that will give your closet a head start. after all, we’re talking about the ‘basics.’

statement necklace – pick the metal you love best. gold or silver. i happen to love pearls so naturally they’re included as a closet staple. but a gold, silver or pearl necklace can dress up a simple neckline much like a silk scarf.

statement bracelet – gold, silver or tortoiseshell bracelets are neutrals that you can add to any outfit. they are a timeless accent piece that works day or night. look for bangles, links or cuffs then add on to your heart’s content.

statement earring – find a pair of color to add a pop to your outfit. diamond or pearl studs make for great everyday earrings and will add sparkle or polish to your outfit. yes, even a tee and blue jeans can handle earrings.

handbag – start with a standard structured handbag in black or brown. a medium size, sturdy, top-handle leather bag will serve you well every day. for an in-depth look at handbags check out this blog post or video for more ideas.

shoes – what woman doesn’t love shoes? at least I haven’t met one. black, brown or nude pumps belong in every closet. same holds true for flats. if you are looking for a shoe with height with comfort try a wedge. for more options take a peek at this video or blog post.

sunglasses – sunglasses not only protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays but they are a statement accessory. start with tortoiseshell, black, or aviators then build your sunglass collection from there. favorite designer prada.

silk scarf – scarves never go out of style. that’s right – never. think of a beautiful silk scarf as an investment piece. they also pull double duty as a belt or accessorize your handbag with one. favorite designer gucci or hermes.

belts –  this accessory can turn your outfit from sloppy to sleek in an instant. keep multiple waist cinchers on hand – thin, medium and wide. wear your belt on your true waist, and you’ve created an hourglass silhouette. a low slung belt over jeans or a dress can be cool and casual. favorite designer ralph lauren.

brooches – these old fashioned gems are a fresh way to add sparkle. a glamorous pin can enrich and enliven the most basic of clothes like a jean jacket or blazer. for more ideas on how to wear a brooch watch this video. favorite designer chanel.

watch – this is one item that i faithfully wear every day. a high-quality, classic timepiece like a tank or a bracelet style – gold, leather strap, or stainless steel – will last a lifetime. 

all right, ladies, that’s a wrap! i hope you enjoyed this series. let me know your thoughts in the comments. happy sunday.

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

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