Five Bold Accessories to Heat up Your Wardrobe

Five Bold Accessories to Heat up Your Wardrobe
Our fashion fanatic columnist has the five must-have accessories to turn up the temps on your summertime style.

As you read in the Spring trend report Flair's Trends 2011, this season has many vibrant colors and styles to chose from. The heat and humidity of the summer prevents us from wearing layers, so your Flair needs to shine through your accessories.

1) Big Necklaces in Natural Metals and Stones - Gold is making a rebound in bold chokers and multi-chains. Silver never left the summer scene. Try on a long necklace with large stones over a plain white T.

2) Bracelets – Resin bangles worn in different widths and vibrant colors look terrific with nautical stripes. Try a wide silver cuff or anything with turquoise stones.

3) Mini Clutches – these have always been a go-to for evening events, now they help achieve the minimalism look.

4) Sunglasses – large black, tortoise or white cat frames, aviators or wayfarers, it's more important that they match the shape of your face then the newest trend. Keep them nearby not only to block the UV rays but they hide last night's tired eyes.

5) Large earrings – worn with hair pulled back is a great way to look feminine and stay cool. Top with a colorful hat to add an element of mystery.

Think of your accessories as the icing on the cake. Sometimes they can make the entire outfit. They add an extra focal point and a jolt of color to an outfit. Here are a few hints for your best looks:

Belts: they bring attention to where ever the belt hits, so put it at your slimmest area. If you are thicker at the waist, wear a belt slightly above the belly button. This will make your legs look longer. Everyone can try a wide belt for a casual, tailored look.
Purses: they should be proportionate to your size. Petite women have a tough time carrying large oversized bags. A purse that hits at the hips draws unwanted attention to your hips, so have the strap shortened. A clutch worn under your arm emphasizes your bust line, you decide if that is good or not.
Shoe Care: shoes are a key to looking nice. Make sure to keep shoes clean and polished, because they make a first and lasting impression. Purge them when the scuffs cannot be buffed. Have a cobbler add a thin rubber tread to flats that will be walking across town all day.

A word on fashion trends: They keep us in the stores spending, thus the economy loves them, but they shouldn't be where you spend a large portion of your shopping budget. Pick one or two trends per season and know that within the year they may rotate to the back of your closet for a while.

Best piece of advice: Give you the time to get pulled together. Take a look at your jewelry, makeup, nails and hair, they all make a difference on your overall look. Strive to find a look that makes you feel terrific every day, because your best accessory is your confidence and smile shining through.

PHOTO CREDITS:
Anton Heunis stone necklace, from The Wardrobe in Madeira

Kristie Sheanshang -
	Kristie Sheanshang is Cincy Chic's style columnist and owner of Flair. She specializes in making her clients look and feel fantastic by finding clothes that best fit their body, lifestyle and wallet — without looking like everyone else. In doing so, they increase their level of confidence, which elevates how others see them. Contact her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Dare4Flair.com. Read More >>

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