As we get older, we tend to avoid trends and stick with what we know. While it doesn’t hurt to try new fashions occasionally, when it comes to accessories there are some things you can wear for years – even decades – as they never go out of style. Here’s our list of five accessories that work at any age.
Basic black handbag
A style classic, the basic black handbag is a chic choice for carrying all life’s essentials and, in the right shape, can work for a multitude of occasions.
Recently, boxy types in leather, canvas or nylon have become popular, with wide woven straps that are worn across the body rather than over the shoulder. Look for these crossbody styles (also known as camera bags) in a medium size, preferably with a removable or interchangeable strap. This allows you to wear the bag with casual outfits during the day, carry it as a clutch for more dressed-up occasions or even add a different strap or chain to create a look that suits the season.
Sunglasses
There’s a reason celebrities are so often seen in sunglasses – they’re the easiest way to look poised and put-together while rushing from one star-studded event to the next.
While the rest of us don’t often face such challenges, we can still follow their style lead and make use of eyewear to add polish to an outfit.
Sunglass trends vary wildly from one season to the next, so although smaller frames and 90s looks have been making a return lately, a classic Wayfarer style in black or tortoiseshell is a more timeless option.
Make sure to choose a pair that meet Australian standards so that you look good and protect your eyes from sun damage at the same time.
Silk scarf
Easily the most versatile item in a wardrobe, a silk scarf can be worn in so many ways that entire books can be found on the subject.
Choose a square one in your favourite colours or patterns that is a bit bigger than your waist when measured on the diagonal. At this size, it will be large enough to fold or roll up and wear as a belt, be tied in a bow or loosely knotted around your neck, or be tied as a decoration to the strap of a bag.
And if you need another bag while out and about, a few knots can transform a scarf into a simple shopper. For more inspiration, look for books or check the internet for ways to wear scarves – or for tips on using them in other ways, browse furoshiki (Japanese wrapping cloths).
Gold chain necklace
Fine and delicate or chunky and bold? A single strand or multiple layers? Again, trends come into play when considering this style staple, with layers of barely-there chains being the more popular in recent summers, but your choice of chain is also a matter of personal taste.
If you are using the chain to carry rings you can no longer wear on your fingers, special medallions and pendants or other such mementoes, choose one that’s fine but sturdy.
However, if the chain is to be worn on its own, a heavier weight makes more of a statement. Depending on the length, it may even be possible to double it around the wrist as a bracelet, making this an accessory that’s worth its weight in … well, gold.
Umbrella
We rarely think about how we look when sheltering from the rain, but umbrellas can make as much of a statement as any fashion item. And these days, many of them double as sun umbrellas to protect skin all year round.
Look for the folding type that is small enough to carry in a handbag, sturdy enough to withstand rain and wind and has guaranteed protection against harsh UV rays in the summer heat.
In your favourite colour or print, an umbrella may just become an essential element of your signature style.
Do you have a favourite accessory? Why not share your style tip with us in the comments section below?
Also read: Six fashion items to see you through this winter and beyond
