Sarah Collins, stylist
accessoriescanada
(Aug.28.07)
Linda D. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca: I have no trouble choosing clothes and love shopping for them but I have a problem knowing how to accessorize. I feel that everything looks too big or overdone. Any guidelines?
…and our stylist, Sarah Collins, answered:
When it comes to "pulling it all together," that's where accessories can definitely make or break an outfit. Accessorizing is a very broad based term, including jewellery, belts, footwear, handbags, scarves, etc. So let me try to give you a few pearls of wisdom:
- I'm a huge believer in having ONE hero in your outfit. For example, if you opt for this season's metallic or patent leather finery (i.e. purse or footwear), keep it to a SINGLE roar. That means one featured article is THE individual showpiece. I do not advise matching a patent leather bag with patent leather shoes. It's too much shine!
- TOO BIG? This fall season, there's a significant emphasis on a woman's waistline. Hence, the higher waist pants and wide corset-style belts. If the scale of a belt looks too wide for your torso, you can achieve a similar look by selecting a narrow belt worn over a fitted top/sweater, resting high on your waist. You'll achieve a current look – without putting yourself in something that feels awkward or overdone.
- Jewellery. Whether it's costume or crown jewels, this is an important part of "getting it together" and completing an outfit. View this as the icing on the cake. For example, chandelier earrings or large hoops are great on women with all hair types. However, I've seen some instances where the jewellery adornment is excessive. If you're wearing a pair of significantly sized drop earrings, I would suggest minimizing the accent pieces on your neck to something more subtle. Bracelets, such as bangles, would compliment big earrings; as there's enough space between the bling bling. My most sage advice on jewellery: Nobody needs to hear your heavy metal clanking before they can see you!!!!
Sarah Collins is a stylist and owner of Sarah Collins Image Consulting in Toronto. For more information http://www.scimage.ca; info@scimage.ca.