In Part 1 we discussed, key core pieces, Part 2 we discovered the importance of accent colors. Now in the final installment of a Wardrobe Based on Purpose, we explore Accessories!

Much like the “icing” on a cake, accessories complete the outfit.  To leave the icing off just doesn’t “taste” as good.  Neither does your outfit!  An otherwise boring outfit become stellar with a few simple well-placed and thought out accessories.  Accessories should always bring out your style personality and embrace your inner core.  For those of you who abhor shopping, this will make it more fun, I promise!

There are 6 well-defined style personalities and one of those reflect who you really are!  Don’t hide behind a core piece, don’t hide behind your “accent” color. Bring it on!  Show your style!!

DO you know if you are a classic, traditional, feminine, sporty, dramatic or trendy personality.  I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t want to be considered stylish, but knowing “who” you are is key.

Accessories: Belts, shoes, handbags, jewelry, scarves -may even be the buttons or embellishments added to a jacket that shows your style

What is it that makes you say that someone looks “put-together”?  Is it that they have a pair of slacks on that fits their body?  Is it the jacket they have on?  I say NO, these are not in and of themselves unique.  It is the accessories added to an outfit that create a dynamic, unique, expressive outfit.

Here are the important components to build a wardrobe on purpose with accessory pieces:

Accessory Key Core:

• Key Core Neutral shoes and handbags (Ex., if you have purchased a navy suit, then buy key core accessory shoes and a handbag in navy.
• Two heel heights (minimally) open and closed-toe.
• Remembering that you have 2 seasons that you are working with, do not forget to have 2 sets of seasonal key core accessory shoes.

Accessory Accents Colors:

• Know your seasonal accent  “color”
• Shop only for accessories in your accent color
• Collect scarves, handbags, bangles, belts, earrings, necklaces, etc.

Make sure that as you select your accent jewelry that it does reflect your personality!  If you have a very sporty personality, you will not feel comfortable in a sweet, delicate necklace or one with lace!  That’s for the feminine personality.  There you have it!  A simple wardrobe created on purpose with focus on 3 easy steps. To read the other parts of a Wardrobe on Purpose click the links below.

• A Wardrobe Based on Purpose
• Key Core Neutral Foundation
• Seasonal Accent Colors
• Accessories

Posted by Karen Hughes on January 12th, 2010 in Accessories, Articles, How To