How To Accessorize Any Outfit

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Creating a perfect outfit might seem like a simple job, but it can actually take a lot of thinking about if you want to look like your favorite fashion icons every day. The ideal outfit is built around layers and accessories which create a flawless look that carries through the entire day. Here is how you can become a master of styling yourself this summer.

Pick a great base

Every outfit starts with one or two items to form a base. It will either be a one-piece such as a dress, or a two-piece (separates) such as a blouse and a skirt. As soon as you pick out your base, you have a canvas upon which to layer and style into a cohesive outfit. If you have a plain or a block of color you can add patterns to your layers but if it is already patterned you will want to keep things simple.

Layer

A layer can be anything from a scarf to a hat, a coat to a cardigan or even a statement necklace. It will be where you add that splash of color or pattern that will make the outfit pop. A layer is an immediate way to anchor your look and make it feel more like an intentional outfit from the outset.

Jewelry

If you have a few staple jewelry items that you wear with absolutely anything, now is the time to pop them on over the top. This will give you the chance to see if you can add anything else to the look or if you need to take anything out.

Balancing Trends

When a new trend comes out on the scene, it can be too easy to get wrapped up in the magic and end up overdoing your look. If you want to avoid this issue you need to remember that you can only add one or two trend items to your look at once. If you go over the top you will end up with a messy and cluttered looking outfit which just won’t fit any particular style. Keep it simple and steer clear if you can.

Fancy Footwork

Shoes can make or break your look, and it is important to always make sure that you pick shoes which are comfortable for you to walk in all day. If you pick a style like a small dress or romper, a pair of flats or white converse can look really cute and quirky. If you have a maxi dress on, a pair of embellished sandals or wedges will be better. Always stick to a style of shoe which fits the look, and don’t go too crazy with color unless you have a monochrome outfit and want to jazz it up with a bold colored shoe such as bright red or jewel tones.

Your Bag

Last but not least will come the decision of which bag to carry your things in for the day. A bag can be a great accessory for any outfit and choosing the right one depends on your style and your activity for the day. If you will be walking and shopping then Shoulder bags are the most practical, however, if you are wearing the bag for fashion, a handbag with a short strap is fine. A bold color or print can be a brilliant way to finish your look and make you look like a fashion expert once and for all!

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4 Must-have Textures this Season

A few weeks ago I wandered into The Tough Boot & Co in Atlanta. This is the coolest place featuring a very curated selection of choice denim, leather and overall badassery menswear. When their style tips showed up in my inbox, I couldn't agree more and just had to share it with you. The Tough Boot & Co says:

Fall/Winter is the best time to experiment with textures and layers. Garments with heavier textures will add depth to your look. Here, we put together a condensed version of what men are starting to wear this Fall/Winter 2016 season.
-Tweed
Tweed is a woolen fabric, of a soft, open, flexible texture, resembling cheviot or homespun, but more closely woven. It is usually woven with a plain weave, twill or herringbone structure. 
There is a world of textures when it comes to Tweed. 
-Herringbone
-Plaid
-Donegal
Color effects in the yarn may be obtained by mixing dyed wool before it is spun.

-Flannel
Flannel is a soft, fuzzy woolen fabric, with a napped surface. The fabric comes in different weights and it is perfect for winter shirts to thick blazers.

-Corduroy
Are we back in the seventies?? The renaissance of corduroy has been a difficult one but it is definitely an interesting texture to add to one’s outfit to add warmth and depth. Use your corduroy wisely as too much of this fabric will make you look like my grandpa.

-Knits
Knitted ties and sweaters are definitely a great way to add texture to your look. Silk knit ties are a must have for almost any season of the year, while fisherman or cable sweaters are perfect for a crisp fall or winter weekend. Find sweaters with a slim fit so you can use them as a mid layer with out looking bulky or fluffy.

-Waxed Canvas
Waxed Canvas is a cotton sturdy fabric that has been treated with a protective wax coating to make it water resistant. Waxed Canvas is usually rigid and it is always used as a shell or outer layer. It is a great option to keep your layers dry and add a great deal of masculinity to your look.

The textures and fabrics mentioned above can actually be layered with each other and with basic denim to create an interesting warm look. Keep your colors neutral and balanced with your textures and fabrics. You can add splashes of color with your accessories like belts, scarves, and even shoes or boots.

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