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Simple Accessorizing Tips When Traveling

A little collection of spring time essentials.

The art of accessorizing can make a difference to any outfit. It can transform from drab and dreary to extraordinary with just one or two small additions. From an eye-catching handbag to a colorful pair of shoes, the right accessories can not only accentuate your clothing but can also allow you to wear the same outfit again and again, yet have it look completely different each time. This is what makes accessories so essential when it comes to packing for your travels.

Whether you’re a solo female traveling off the beaten track or going away on vacation with some close friends, we’ve put together some simple accessorizing tips to help you travel light and showcase your style without having to take your entire wardrobe with you.

 

Jewelry

Bring jewelry with you that is durable and easy to match with almost any outfit. This is a great way to switch your style while keeping your luggage light. After a day of sightseeing, elevate a plain t-shirt and jeans into a stylish and attractive ensemble by adding a statement necklace, colorful scarf, or oversized earrings.

Rings are another great accessory to introduce into your travel apparel and go well with almost any outfit. Bring some sophistication to your daywear by wearing one or two simple rings. Alternatively, accentuate your hands through the use of stacking or midi rings which give an effortlessly chic look. Instead of a sparkling diamond consider white sapphire vs moissanite rings which instantly bring elegance to any outfit.

In the evening, your look can be enhanced by wearing a glamorous cocktail ring and other decorative items that can embellish your outfit including brooches, hair clips, and belts.

 

Footwear

Nothing transforms an outfit quite like your choice of footwear.  In addition to some comfy sneakers or flats to wear on days out exploring, bring along a pair of heels or dressy sandals with you. This allows you to transform your day wear into a more formal or glamorous look for the evening.

A simple pair of jeans can make an entrance with some heels on your feet. Meanwhile, a day dress can look more elegant with the addition of some strappy sandals.  One or two pairs of shoes are enough to change the look and feel of your outfit and can save you money on buying unnecessary footwear for your travels.

 

Handbags

A handbag is more than a practical item to carry your essentials in. From a crossbody to a clutch, this item allows fashion to meet function and as with your shoes, one or two bags are enough.

Your choice of handbag will largely depend on the occasion. For a casual daytime look at the beach, consider a boho, bucket, or crossbody bag, while a leather clutch or evening bag with a chain embellishment can make the perfect accompaniment for an evening out.

As a rule of thumb, the style of your handbag should match your outfit. A soft, lightweight material such as suede or canvas makes the ideal accompaniment for a relaxed, summer look while a chic, structured clutch is ideal for the evening. Bringing two handbags on your travels will provide you with the perfect accessory for every occasion.

 

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are another functional accessory that is essential for your travels. Your choice of eyewear can not only flatter your face but can also add a certain je ne sais quoi to your overall appearance. Some common sunglasses styles include aviator, cat-eye, wayfarer, and round-eye.

Not all frames suit every face so when choosing your sunglasses it’s important to select a pair that complements your face shape. Sunglasses come in many different styles. Depending on whether your face is round, heart-shaped, oval, or square, certain frames will suit you better than others.

 

Styling Tips

Now that you know the various items that can be used to accessorize your travel outfits you can begin putting them to use. When it comes to accessorizing your outfits there are some basic guidelines you can follow to help you create a balanced and stylish look.

 

Less Is More

Generally speaking, accessories are there to compliment your outfit, not compete with it so do not wear too many accessories at the same time. The more patterns and detailing there is on your clothing the fewer accessories you will need.

Conversely, a basic outfit such as a black t-shirt with jeans can be enhanced with bolder accessories or simply more of them without being too overpowering. A colorful scarf, oversized earrings, or layered necklaces can add some texture and visual appeal, transforming an otherwise plain outfit.

 

Use of Color

To draw attention to a neutral or monochrome outfit, an unexpected flash of a brighter color can be used to catch the eye. This works best when the color accounts for a small percentage of the overall look. For instance, a colored pair of shoes, an eye-catching belt, or a bright lipstick against an all-black outfit.

To make an outfit stand out, consider the use of complementary colors. These are colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel. These brighter, accent colors bring an instant lift and visual impact to your outfit.

These colors can also help to balance out your outfit by drawing attention to certain areas. For example, wearing shoes in an accent color will pull attention towards your feet, highlighting the lower part of your body.

 

Express your personality

Accessories are a great way to say something about your interests and style. It even communicates how you feel on a given day. For instance, a bold animal print scarf can demonstrate your fun, adventurous side while pearls or a flower hair accessory can bring out your softer, feminine appeal. The use of metal jewelry or a studded belt or clutch bag can add an edgier look to an outfit making it perfect for visiting a festival or rock concert on your travels.

Hair accessories are another great way to express your individuality on holiday. Whether it is a 1950s-inspired headscarf that protects your hair from the sun, a casual bandana, or an elegant french barrette hair clip, there are many options to choose from.

Now that you know the basics, you can experiment with your accessories to create your own personal style no matter the time of day or occasion.