These 5 Accessories Transformed My Wardrobe Without Me Having to Buy New Clothes

These 5 Accessories Transformed My Wardrobe Without Me Having to Buy New Clothes

It’s an age-old trick: when in doubt, accessorize. Whether you have a more minimalist wardrobe or one of the Cher Horowitz variety, you know that no outfit is complete without a good accessory (or two, or three…). These notable additions can completely transform any less exciting look or elevate an already statement-making ensemble. This is exactly why I recently switched from buying new clothes to shopping for accessories.

With fall just around the corner, I’m just disheartened that the sunny season is already coming to an end. But isn’t that just how summer is? Your warm-weather style finally peaks and then you’re suddenly inundated with fall marketing campaigns. Like me, you’re probably wondering how to expand your summer wardrobe and avoid swiping your card again until the new season is really here in about a month (read: temperatures finally drop below 75°F). In my quest to avoid buying clothes for the time being, I’m sharing the five must-have accessories that have completely changed the way I think about my closet.

A silk scarf

A silk scarf

A silk scarf is bursting with versatility. Whether attached to your bag or wrapped around your ponytail, this vintage-inspired piece can be worn in countless ways. When it comes to bridging the gap between seasons, this silk accessory is just the ticket. Instead of buying a new bag in the height of summer, I’ve opted to tie an Amalfi-inspired silk scarf around my winter bag and never look for that raffia bag again.

A studded belt

A studded belt

Most of the time, you’ll see me wearing a belt; not because my pants need extra support, but because it’s an easy way to dress up any look. The best part is that you really only need one or two good belts in your rotation: one that’s classic and versatile, and one that makes a statement.

A pearl necklace

A pearl necklace

If you haven’t seen the trendy necklaces of late, you should know that they’re as colorful as they are fun. While I always recommend wearing what speaks to you rather than what’s considered trendy, I’ve found that the color and texture of a pearl necklace is exactly what I’ve been missing when accessorizing.

A pair of statement sunglasses

A pair of statement sunglasses

Some of us may look at sunglasses from a purely functional perspective, but I promise you that they can make a bigger statement than you think. I don’t mean you have to run out and buy the most expensive pair—my favorite sunglasses happen to be from Amazon—but I do recommend investing in a pair that will significantly elevate your outfit.

A colorful bag

A colorful bag

While I’m a maximalist at heart, I generally buy bags that are more geared toward year-round wear; however, I recently stumbled upon a few colorful bags that have elevated my otherwise one-dimensional look. My new yellow bag really makes me feel like a new woman. Now when I feel like my outfit is looking a little lackluster, I put down my neutral bags and reach for a pop of color instead.