There are two ways to approach this item: whether you invest in a classic expensive one and owe never to change it, or make several small purchases to collect different styles and colors depending on your outfit.
If you are a conservative dresser, please invest. If you change your clothes every day, be careful not to get lured by pricy bags, you will end up with many “last year bags” and not feel chic. But investing in a good bag makes sense, it gives part of the first impression people get of your taste, style and personality.
To carry a recognizable brand-named bag is like a security blanket, when buying an expensive every day bag, look for the conservative colors: black, navy-brown, burgundy, tan… but don’t think you have to have a black bag just because you are wearing black clothing. Wearing color accessories (shoes and bags) with black clothes comes from an old European concept and it looks very chic.
If you have to carry a lot in your bag, stow all your belongings plus a little handbag in the backpack. You only need your necessities in the little bag to take out to lunch or dinner. Leave the backpack secure, don’t carry that back breaker with you if you don’t need it.
When looking for a fashion that is just for the moment, don’t discount the street vendors selling their, sometimes, very good knockoffs. These expensive fakes are a good way to add a boost without investing in the real thing. An evening bag is another place you can easily get away without spending much money. This can be another excuse for visiting a vintage store.
Belts, they have resurged as a real fashion accessory, they add a bit of status to an outfit, if you like them you should splurge on a good skin belt. Many women are afraid to use a belt because they don’t want to call attention to their hips or waist, but it depends on the belt and your body type.
Another good basic is a chain belt, which are meant to be worn slightly looser so they sit closer to the hips. This can distract from a large waist and make it seem smaller in proportion. I recommend looking for those that are almost like a piece of jewelry or art. Collect them, or at least their buckles so you can give a second life to them or to an outdated outfit. That is when belts become exiting, when you want to hold on to them forever.
Shoes, most women have an obsession with shoes. Who does not like to buy a divine pair, even if you don’t have anything to wear them with? If you are one of those, I recommend you start dressing from the shoes up, it is a fun exercise. It is still cheaper to buy a pair of shoes than to buy a whole outfit.
I truly believe that beautiful shoes do make a difference in how you look, no matter how much you spend on the rest of your clothes:
A simple black shoe, mid-heeled and leathered, can be worn with everything.
Sneakers for any sport or activity you do or just walking around town.
Casual shoes in black, brown or navy, depending on the predominant colors of your wardrobe.
Chunky lace-up shoe, to wear with weekend clothes like jeans or khakis as well as with pantsuits to work on more casual days.
A pair of very dressy evening shoes, for cocktail parties, weddings and other fancy occasions.
And of course, a pair of the most stylish shoes of the season, it is an easy way to pick up on a trend and suddenly feel “in”
A gorgeous pair of shoes not only lifts an outfit, they also change your appearance and perspective of self. Makes you suddenly feel sexier, elongate legs and gives you a sense of authority.
Shoes and stocking can be a tremendous accessory, but you have to learn to go beyond the basics of black, brown and taupe. Opaque black tights are one of the best things that happened to fashion and women’s legs. Hiding sins like veins or spots gathered over the years, cellulite included. Plus, they make heavier legs look thinner.
This piece of clothing has the power to instantly update a look. For spring and summer, opt for the most invisible sheers, they should be like a foundation for the face. For fall or winter, the dark and opaque like burgundy, navy, brown, forest green and of course, black, these are the basic for a cold weather wardrobe.
I will often correspond the color of the pantyhose with the color of a top. For example: a dark green sweater set, black skirt and dark green tights. This helps to pull the whole look together as an outfit. I know that we were brainwashed to wear the stockings same color as shoes, but this is because it gives you an elongated leggy look, especially when wearing a short skirt
But sometimes this look is too heavy, for example, if you are wearing a gray fennel suit with a chocolate brown top and brown suede pumps, brown stockings will be too boring, try instead a taupe to add color.
If you are the adventurous type, look for different textures and patterns. Just a piece of advice, if you want to try fishnets, wear another pair of tights underneath, because fishnets will be cutting your feet flesh all day long.
The thing with accessories, is that what really works, are the ones you were born with: your face and hair. Everybody knows this, that is why everyone has some makeup at home or even with her. As long as you are taking care to flatter your face with a little makeup, you shouldn’t forget about the rest of your body.
Treat yourself for a facial, massage, manicure, pedicure… God knows we work hard enough and we deserve time to our self-improvement and nourishing. Even if you want to save money, you can relax at home making space for your very own privet spa day.
And while makeup and mani/pedis are nice extras, a good haircut is like a necessity. You can be wearing the greatest outfit ever seen, but if your hair is a mess, or so outdated, or just very damaged, it does detract you from a great look. I even recommend to have your hair done before going shopping.
The best way to start a shopping day is to have a big breakfast or brunch, go for a manicure and then for a haircut. Now everything you try on will look so much better.