How To Choose The Right Accessories For Every Outfit

Choosing the right accessories can transform your outfit and take your style to the next level. Accessories are more than just the finishing touch—they’re the secret to creating a versatile wardrobe that works for every occasion. From shoes and bags to jewelry and beyond, the options are endless, which can make choosing the perfect pieces feel overwhelming. What colors and styles should you pick? How do you know when to stop layering? In today’s post, I’ll share my best tips on how to choose the right accessories to complement your personal style and build a wardrobe that feels effortlessly chic.

Mastering the Art of Accessorizing

How to Choose the Right Statement Accessories

If you’re just beginning your journey to creating a more effortless and curated wardrobe, start with one statement accessory that you can style with multiple outfits. This could be a standout neutral bag, a pair of bold shoes, or an eye-catching piece of jewelry.

Don’t stress about perfectly matching all your accessories. Your bag and shoes don’t have to be identical to look polished. Instead, aim for cohesion by coordinating two accessories. For example, pair a black bag with a black belt and neutral shoes, or opt for a straw bag with tan shoes and a matching belt for a classic, versatile look.

If your statement accessory is a vibrant piece—like red shoes, let them take center stage. Keep the rest of your accessories neutral, such as a beige or black bag and a simple belt, to ensure the look feels balanced and sophisticated.

The shoes I’m wearing above are the Sezane Paula Babies. They fit true to size. I generally wear a size 7 or 7.5 (depending on the brand. In most American sizes and I wear a 7, and in European sizes I wear a 37.5). I take the Paula Babies in size 7 (they will arrive stamped French size 38 due to the size conversion). If you want to match your shoes with your bag, this polished camel color matches the leather Farrow bag perfectly!

How to Use Color To Elevate Our Accessories

Start by considering the type of outfits you typically wear. Are you drawn to neutral tones, or do you gravitate toward vibrant colors and bold patterns?

If your wardrobe leans neutral, adding a pop of color through accessories is an easy way to make a statement. For example, a pair of red shoes, a colorful scarf, or a bold bag can instantly elevate your look without overpowering your outfit.

On the other hand, if you love colorful clothing and prints, incorporating neutral accessories is essential to balance your look. Think of classic nude heels, a black or tan bag, or simple gold jewelry to ground your outfit while letting your clothes take center stage.

The key is finding harmony between your wardrobe’s palette and your accessories, so they enhance, not compete with, your overall style.

 

Mix Textures and Materials For a Polished Look

Mixing textures and materials is a simple yet impactful way to add depth and interest to your outfits. Combining contrasting elements can take your look from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a polished and effortless style.

For example, pair a woven or raffia handbag with sleek linen pieces for a breezy, sophisticated vibe. Patent leather shoes or tote bags bring a glossy shine that contrasts beautifully with cozy textures like wool sweaters. Similarly, a smooth leather bag can balance the boldness of patterns, such as stripes or checks, for a timeless look.

The key is to create harmony by pairing textures that compliment each other. Whether it’s mixing rough with smooth or shiny with matte, these combinations can elevate even the simplest outfits into something unforgettable.

Why Versatility Matters in Accessorizing

Having a few go-to accessories can transform your wardrobe and extend the life of your favorite pieces. Instead of constantly adding new clothing items, focus on swapping out accessories to create fresh looks for any occasion.

Take a simple black t-shirt dress, for example. Pair it with chic ballet flats and a scarf for a polished office look. Switch to gold heels (don’t forget—15% off this brand with code TARAFHM15) and a sleek clutch for a dinner date. For casual errands, opt for classic sneakers and a roomy tote.

Versatile accessories make it easy to adapt your outfit to the occasion or mood, proving that the right finishing touches can truly elevate your style. Understanding how to choose the right accessories will help you build a wardrobe that works for both casual and dressy occasions.

 

How to Choose Accessories That Balance Your Look

When it comes to creating a balanced outfit, less is more. One standout piece—whether it’s your clothing or an accessory—is often all you need to make a statement.

For example, if you’re wearing a bold floral dress to brunch, keep your accessories simple and neutral to avoid competing with the pattern. Think of understated gold or silver jewelry, a beige or tan bag, and minimal shoes to let the dress shine.

On the other hand, if you’re styling a classic little black dress for a casual dinner, your accessories can add personality. Pair it with simple gold or silver jewelry like hoop earrings and a sleek bracelet, and introduce a pop of color through your bag or shoes to keep the look chic yet effortless.

The goal is to strike a balance, ensuring your outfit feels cohesive and polished without looking overdone.

 

Accessorizing with Shoes

Shoes are arguably the most important accessory in your wardrobe. They can really make or break an outfit. But choosing the right pair can sometimes feel overwhelming. Start by considering the occasion. You wouldn’t wear sneakers to a formal dinner, just as you wouldn’t wear heels to a casual baseball game. When in doubt, opt for versatile flat shoes like classic loafers, ballet flats, or mules, which work well with both casual and dressy outfits.

Here are some great shoes to have as a go-to.

 

You may also be interested in my Inez shoes review. Inez is my most-worn brand for heels and boots. You can also take 15% off with TaraFHM15.

 

Choosing the Perfect Bag

Shoes may be the most important fashion accessories, but bags are my favorite! I love how a great bag can elevate any look. And totally change the outfit vibe too. You can take a simple outfit from being effortlessly casual to upscale chic. Larger bags generally give off a more casual vibe, no matter the brand. Opt for slouchy leather bags for everyday fall looks, and raffia bags from spring to summer. Smaller shoulder bags and clutch bags can dress up an outfit with their sleek designs.

 

Jewelry That Makes a Statement

When it comes to jewelry, less is often more. Choose one statement piece and pair it with simpler, more understated accessories. For example, if you’re wearing bold statement earrings, you don’t need a necklace or bracelet to make an impact. A simple, elegant bracelet can complement the earrings without overwhelming your look. Adding a necklace in this case may be too much and distract from the statement you’re trying to make.

On the flip side, if you’re opting for a statement necklace, keep your earrings minimal with studs or small hoops. This allows the necklace to take center stage while still maintaining balance in your look.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more subtle, classic style, you can keep all your jewelry simple. Wear delicate pieces as much as you like without worry- simplicity can be just as chic!

It’s not just about choosing the right accessories, but also about knowing how many to wear for a balanced and refined appearance.

 

Hair Accessories for a Polished Look

Hair accessories like clips, headbands, hair bows, and barrettes can be great for comfort, as well as for adding some details to your outfit. Style your hair accessories like you would style jewelry. Keep in mind balance. A statement headband looks great with simple earrings, while wearing a large barrette can can compliment bolder earrings. Keep Coco Chanel’s general style rule in mind- “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory”. Less is more.

 

Belts That Define Your Style

Belts are a functional and stylish accessory that can add interest to an outfit. Generally, pants with belt loops should be worn with a belt. However I do not always follow this rule. Sometimes you just want to keep it simple. However for the times where a belt is needed, or can really elevate your look, it’s great to have a go-to neutral belt, and black belt. Take a look at your wardrobe to see what type of belt you need. Slim belts make a pants outfit look polished, while wider belts can elevate even the most casual black dress. This iconic Celine belt is a timeless statement piece. I wear this in a size 75 (for reference I wear size 24 or 25 in jeans. And the same size in the Gucci belt).

 

Scarves: A Timeless Accessory

Scarves are a versatile accessory that can be styled so many ways. You can wear silk twill scarves around your neck, tied to a bag, or in your hair. You can even use them as a wrap for chilly summer evenings. They are a great way to add color or texture to a minimal outfit. In winter, layer your wool and cashmere scarves over your winter coat for an easy effortless vibe.

 

Hats That Elevate Your Look

Hats are one accessory that took me a while to really appreciate. I love them now! I think that finding a hat you feel good in can be a challenge. You really have to try on different styles to see what you like best. Then you can search for those styles and feel confident wearing them. For summer, and for traveling to warmer climates, a straw hat is key! There are so many different styles to choose from. You can read my previous post on how to wear a straw hat for more tips and outfit inspiration. Every classic wardrobe needs a straw hat!

For colder months, a great cashmere beanie can be so chic. They are a timeless winter accessory. For a more modern and edgy look, try a wool cap. To add contrast to your winter look, choose a color opposite your hair color. For example, pair darker hair with a white or tan hat, and a black or gray hat with lighter air. If you don’t want the hat to stand out as a statement piece, choose a complimentary color to your hair.

 

Final Thoughts on How to Choose the Right Accessories

For a complete and versatile wardrobe, having the right accessories will save you the trouble of figuring out what to wear. How many times have you bought a new piece of clothing only to find that it sits in your closet because you don’t have the right accessories to pair it with? Start by identifying the key accessories you’re missing, then build from there. Neutral accessories are often the most versatile, as they can complement a variety of outfits. But ultimately, choosing accessories that align with your personal style is key to creating a wardrobe that feels uniquely yours. Now that you know how to choose the right accessories, you can build a versatile and timeless wardrobe