Do you have tonnes of clothes & shoes but very few accessories? It seems that with every wardrobe edit I’ve performed recently, there is a serious lack of accessories going on in everyone’s wardrobes. Being an accessories lover from way back, this leaves me both confused and deeply saddened. I’m usually met with a blank stare when I ask my client where her accessories are.

Friends! Accessories can turn a “meh” outfit into a freakin’ fabulous one and they don’t have to cost a bomb either. Next time you’re strapped for cash but stinging for something shiny and new, think about purchasing a few great pieces that will take your wardrobe to the next level.  Here are some basics that every wardrobe should have…

A Kick-Arse Pair of Sunnies

To me, this is a no-brainer as I may have a small obsession with picking up cool sunglasses here, there and everywhere.  But, in addition to protecting your eyes from the sun, the right pair can make you look, well, so damn cool.  A basic black frame will pretty much go with everything, so do yourself a favour and invest in a decent pair.  For other colours, shapes & styles, there is no shame in going for cheaper brands as they’re more of a nice to have rather than an essential item.  Then, you don’t need to feel bad about owning 10 pairs..or more. #winning!

A Statement Necklace

So, you’re rocking your favourite jeans and white t-shirt combo and you look super cute and all, but something is missing..

A chunky statement necklace in a gold or silver is a must have in every wardrobe. Those with warm skin tones should look for gold, and those beauties with cool skin tones should look for silver.

Your necklace will look amazing with t-shirts, blouses, tank tops, worn over a shirt collar & with your favourite LBD. It can also draw attention away from any “problem areas” you may wish to hide like a rounder tummy or fuller lower half.

It’s worth mentioning that I recently picked up a hand full of statement necklaces from the local markets for a teeny $1 each.  A great option if you’re counting your pennies and times are tough, so get out there and find that pretty piece that speaks to you.

A Pair of Great Earrings

If you’re just starting to introduce jewellery into your wardrobe, go for something that’s relatively versatile. I just can’t go past a good pair of gold chandelier earrings. They can single handedly take your outfit from day to night; Transform your office outfit into something slightly sexier for after work drinks. They’re the perfect accessory to take with you when travelling when going from beach to bar. And, fear not if your ears aren’t pierced, there are great clip on options out there.. you just have to hunt them down.

A Pretty Clutch

A good clutch is another must have item in any wardrobe. Something that you can grab on your way out the door that’s big enough to fit all your essentials for a big night out with the girls.

If you’re someone who relies heavily on carrying sensible (flat!!) shoes around with you on a drunken night out, make sure you factor this in when selecting said, fabulous clutch.

Black is certainly the safest option as it goes with practically everything but I don’t want to encourage you to go too safe here. Think outside the box. I consider leopard print to be a neutral as it just works with most colours and prints, but I’m also a huge fan of a metallic or sequinned clutch to add that element of fun. Sometimes, you just have to have a few accessories that you absolutely love, and if worn with confidence, they don’t have to make total sense.

A Practical (but stunningly gorgeous) Handbag

We carry our lives around in our handbags, right?.. All the every day essentials, all the items we might need, just in case. All the unnecessary items we accumulate and don’t actually need..

And, often, your handbag can also become your nappy bag, lunch bag, gym bag, work bag.. so, it makes sense to have something that’s pretty, but also practical. Big enough to fit in all your must haves but not so big that you’ll be lugging around 5 kgs of crap you don’t actually need. A medium sized tote could be just the ticket.  If you’re choosing to invest in a decent one that will last the distance (did someone just say State of Escape?) it may be sensible to go for a neutral colour that will work with your wardrobe like black, tan, navy or charcoal. But, if you’re someone who likes to throw caution to the wind and portray a certain sense of fun, go for a hand bag in a cool bold block colour like red, neon yellow, or fuchsia. Just wait for the compliments to start rolling in from women who wish they had the balls to buy a bag that isn’t so boring and predictable. Find your inner style queen and you go girlfriend!!