The Essential Accessories for an Elegant Wardrobe

Accessories are very important! They have the power to make a good outfit a great outfit. They also add great touches of your personality. They can be big or small, but they should always impact an outfit for the better. Below is a list of accessories you need in your wardrobe to be the most stylish and put-together version of yourself.

Belt -- A belt is a great accessory that can instantly elevate any outfit. It can make a sweater and jeans combo go from drab to fab, and I recommend investing in one you really love.

Pearl earrings -- Pearl earrings are about as timeless and classic as it gets. They go with absolutely everything, and match both silver and gold jewelry. Don’t feel the need to invest in a real pair unless you are absolutely sure you can take care of them. I have a faux pair, and they are just as elegant as real ones.

Bracelets -- Bracelets are my favorite type of jewelry since I love that they can be layered and stacked. For every day, I usually wear one or two gold bangles from Kate Spade with a gold cuff or a leather Louis Vuitton bracelet.

Rings -- Rings are great, as long as you don’t wear too many. When it comes to rings, pick one a day, and wear it on your middle or ring finder. It adds a touch of character, and makes the fingers look more elongated.

Watch -- A watch is something you can wear every day, and I love it. I’ve worn my Kate Spade watch every day since I got it for Christmas in seventh grade because it makes every outfit look a bit more put-together. Truth be told, the clock doesn’t even work anymore, but if yours does, it is a great tool if you don’t have your phone on hand.

Sunglasses -- Sunglasses are the ultimate glam touch on any outfit -- think Jackie O strolling down 5th avenue in a pair of tortoise Nini Ricci’s. They make us look a little more mysterious, while also adding a bit of flair. I recommend having a go-to pair that you always have on hand -- whether you are facing the sun or want to look instantly chic.

Handbag -- I’ll expand more on this later, but I always bring a handbag when going out. If you carry one, you don’t have to awkwardly carry your phone in your hand and be constantly worried about misplacing it. I am friends with a couple of people who don’t carry a handbag, and I always get a sense of anxiety from watching them. Having to juggle your phone, wallet, keys, and lip balm in your hand is never a good idea, especially since you risk losing something.

Pearl Strand Necklace -- There is nothing more classy than a pearl necklace. A favorite of Jackie O and Coco Chanel, the pearl necklace is an enduring icon for timeless elegance and taste. You can wear a pearl necklace with anything, and it will instantly chic-ify any outfit you have on. The great thing about a pearl strand necklace is that you can loop it many different ways and create many different styles. It is very versatile, and a key piece of any classic wardrobe.

Umbrella -- When it rains, always be prepared and proud to pop out your umbrella. Find one that is small enough to fit in a bag or backpack so that you will always have it with you.

Leather Gloves -- If you live in a cold climate, gloves are essential. Wearing leather gloves will not only keep your fingers warm, but add a bit of style.

Fur Scarf -- Again, if you live in a cold climate, a fur scarf is essential. Not only is it extremely fashionable, but it is significantly warmer than a wool or cashmere scarf -- both cuddly and cute.

Fur Earmuffs - Why put on a hat and mess up your hair when you can just put on earmuffs? If you want to make sure your ears are toasty warm, make sure you get fur ones. They will elevate your outfit and keep your ears from getting hypothermia.

Silk Scarf -- A silk scarf is one of the easiest ways to add a touch of chic. They are so versatile -- you can tie them around your neck, under the collar of a blouse, through pant loops, and even on your handbag. Find a few that you like and try to incorporate one into an ordinary outfit -- it will add a certain chic factor that no one will be able to miss. Since silk is an expensive fabric, you may not want to spend a ton of money on a scarf made of it. Therefore, you can find places to get one at a discount. For example, look at consignment shops or sites. Second-hand fashion is great because you can get expensive products for half the price.

Floppy hat -- Whether it’s made of wool for fall or straw for summer, a floppy hat is a fun way to add a little character. A straw one is perfect for days on the beach, and can also protect your face and neck from the sun.