Accessories may be the last thing you think about when putting together an outfit. After all, they’re probably the last thing you put on after getting dressed.

But maybe it’s about time we start paying more attention to the world of accessories. They aren’t just the finishing touch of your outfit—they’re an important part of completing your look.

From jewelry to shoes, accessories might just be the key to unlocking your fashion potential. And as we move further into 2023, it’s time to look at a few of the accessory trends at the forefront of style today.

Let’s explore everything there is to know about accessorizing an outfit, including the upcoming trends you should keep on your radar.

the power of accessories

It isn’t always the clothing that makes an outfit truly fashionable. Sometimes it’s the perfect choice of shoes or a statement handbag that really makes the outfit pop.

That’s why accessories are so important in the world of style. Items like necklaces, scarves, sunglasses, hats, and shoes may be small, but they have the power to completely transform an outfit. Especially for a casual outfit, the right accessories can elevate your look to the next level.

Accessories can add a much-needed finishing touch to an outfit, but they also add something even more important: Personality. The right pieces can help your sense of style shine through. Combining accessories with other wardrobe choices can help you craft signature looks that really feel like you.

popular casual accessories

The right accessories can make or break a look, but how do you know which ones to choose? Let’s start by breaking down some of the most popular accessories for upgrading a casual outfit.

statement earrings

Big dangly earrings or tiny studs—whatever you choose, a pair of statement earrings are an amazing way to draw attention up to your face. They can complement an outfit and add a touch of elegance to any casual look.

scarves and bandanas

Scarves and bandanas add interest, color, and a hint of personality to any look. They’re also incredibly versatile. Tie them any way you choose. Keep it simple with just one or layer a few around your neck.

hats and headbands

With hats and headbands, there’s no better way to show off your attitude and personal style. There are plenty of styles to choose from, whether you want something big and attention-grabbing or something more subtle to complement your outfit.

belts and waist cinchers

Belts aren’t just a way to keep your pants up. They can also tie together your outfit (literally). The right belt or waist cincher can be worn with your pants, as well as over a dress or blazer to create a more formfitting look.

layered necklaces and pendants

Layered necklaces and pendants bring a laid-back glamour to any outfit. They don’t have to be overly expensive, but a few quality pieces are sometimes all you need to make an outfit look more polished. Wear just one bigger statement pendant or wear a few smaller necklaces together for the layered look.

emerging trends in casual accessories

Accessories will never go out of style. But you might notice that some accessories are in, while others are out. When was the last time you saw someone wearing those plastic chokers from the ’90s?

Trends shouldn’t rule your style choices, but they can give you some guidance to make sure your accessory style keeps evolving over the years.

With that in mind, here are some of the top emerging trends in casual accessories.

sustainable materials and eco-friendly brands

Nowadays, it’s all about sustainability. More and more people are flocking to eco-friendly brands to buy their accessories. Upcycled jewelry, organic cotton totes, zero-waste hair pins, and so much more. If it’s ethically made and earth-friendly, it’s going to be a fashion must-have.

oversized and dramatic pieces

In 2023, it’s go big or go home. Forget subtle and laid-back accessories—now it’s all about oversized and statement pieces. The more dramatic and exciting, the better. Think eye-catching statement handbags, bold chunky necklaces, and huge dangly earrings.

colorful and playful accents

Accessories let you add an exciting accent to any outfit, even if it’s relaxed and casual. That’s why so many people are drawn to the trend of colorful, bold, and playful accessories. For example, a bright scarf with a bold floral print, or a chunky bracelet with dazzling gemstones.

mix-and-match styles and textures

The days of flat, boring, monotone outfits are over. In 2023, accessories are here to liven up any outfit with a variety of styles. Mix and match different textures, like a satin clutch with your denim jacket. Or mix and match styles, like a soft floral scarf with a rugged leather jacket.

styling tips for casual accessories

If your outfit is a word, the accessories are like the exclamation point. Not only is your outfit not complete without it, but it won’t have the same personality, pizazz, and polish.

So how do you make accessories work for your casual outfits? Here are some styling tips to make the most of your casual accessories.

how to match accessories with different casual outfits

With so many outfits in your wardrobe, how do you know which accessory to wear?

Always save the best for last and put the rest of your outfit on first. Then take a long look in the mirror. Pay attention to your overall outfit, like the colors, neckline, and silhouette. Consider the vibe you want to give off with this look.

For example, if you’re wearing a casual sundress for lunch with your friends, you’ll want to keep it casual but cute. Some great accessories might include an oversized hat, casual tote, bright sunglasses, or a chunky necklace to make a statement without going overboard.

Or if you’re wearing a simple T-shirt and jeans, you might want a few pieces that have a classier feel or are more likely to draw the eye. For example, an heirloom necklace, a statement hairpiece, or an elegant clutch.

dos and don’ts of mixing and matching accessories

Before you start trying on your accessories at home, it helps to know a few guiding principles for mixing and matching. Here are some basic do’s and don’ts when it comes to accessories.

Do’s:

• Do layer necklaces of varying lengths.
• Do play with different textures.
• Do combine smaller earrings with bigger necklaces (and vice versa).
• Do pick one statement accessory that you wear often.
• Do pay attention to proportions (big outfits go with small and discreet accessories).
• Do pick a focal point and build the rest of the accessories around it.
• Do use accessories that match the colors in the rest of your outfit.

Don’ts:

• Don’t try to mix gold and silver jewelry—stick to just one tone.
• Don’t wear accessories that aren’t appropriate for the occasion (like layered bangles at a funeral, for example).
• Don’t overwhelm the outfit with too many bold accessories.
• Don’t wear accessories that clash with your outfit.
• Don’t ignore the smaller accessories, like rings, watches, bracelets, or hair clips.

how to create a cohesive look with multiple accessories

When you’re considering a few different accessory options, it can be hard to make everything look seamless. But there’s definitely a way to make your mix-and-match accessories into a put-together, cohesive look.

First of all, it helps to go into your styling session with a vision in mind. Are you going for effortlessly cool? Or maybe chic and laid-back? Or something more elegant and classy? Knowing your goal will help you narrow down the accessories that mesh well together.

Don’t forget about color and tone. While you shouldn’t be afraid to play with color, make sure everything has a complementary color palette. You don’t want to pair a bright red statement blazer with a neon green handbag, for example. And the same goes for warm-toned jewelry paired with a cool-toned outfit.

You can even go the extra mile and find accessories that match the color and tone of accents in your outfit. For example, a bag with a silver clasp that matches the silver buttons on your blouse. Or a pearly, sea-themed necklace paired with a blue shirt.

embracing the power of casual accessories

Trends will come and go, but one fact stays the same. Accessories are the backbone of your outfit. It isn’t something you should do just once or every now and then—adding one, two, or three accessories takes your outfit from a work in progress to a finished piece of art.

With that being said, it takes the right accessories to add that sparkle to your wardrobe. The key to accessorizing well is finding something that suits your style. It means wearing accessories that work for you. And more importantly, the accessories that make you feel confident in what you’re wearing.

Did an accessory trend catch your eye? Or do you have other ideas to mix up your ensemble with new accessories? Try it out for yourself and share the results in the comments below.