I always used to believe I was a shoe person, until I realised I also equally appreciate bags, and earrings and any other type of accessory going, to be honest. It’s safe to say, when it comes to getting dressed there are no shortage of options for that final flourish these days, but deciphering which new styles to invest in is always a challenge because of the vast array available. It’s that time of year when the lines between seasons are blurred, and with summer sales making room for autumn pieces, it becomes tempting to plan ahead.
This is why new-season accessories are a talking point already. While we’re not about to pack away straw bags and flat-forms for next year’s heatwaves just yet, we are ready to welcome items that can transform outfits, with minimal effort. Is your diary suddenly filling up fast? I know the feeling, but instead of buying entirely new outfits for each upcoming plan, sometimes just a great accessory addition will suffice.
The autumn/winter 2021 shows gave a wave of inspiration, and with so many to trends to tackle, I’ve picked decided to pick out the best of the best when it comes to the add-ons. And more importantly, they’re the accessories you can actually buy now, and wear now through to the new season. With no sweaty knee-high boots or faux fur in sight, I’ve taken a look back at the autumn/winter 2021 trends to create a cheat sheet of the accessories that are happening already and will continue to dominate.
Logomania is back with a bang—with everyone from Chanel and Gucci to Valentino and Versace parading their branded necklaces, earrings and pretty hair decs. Then there are the matchy-matchy bags to blend into your existing outfits. Add to this OTT jewels that are now seen as everyday essentials and you have yourself a guide to slipping into new season quickly, easily and with some major pizzazz.
I, for one, love a hoop earring. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I left the house without a pair…unless by mistake. Although small, huggie-type styles have paved the way for carefully curated ear-parties over the last few years, but autumn/winter 2021 is all about bigger being better. Spotted at the likes of Proenza Schouler and 3.1 Phillip Lim, these beauties demand to be noticed.
The love affair with trainers and slippers is well and truly over, if Versace has anything to do with it, that is. I’m ready to wear heels again at any given opportunity, and what better way than with styles that are actually comfy? Granted, they’re hardly wallflowers but platform shoes are the perfect “revenge” option for all the parties and fun time sto come. Go for sandals or clogs and wear and you can wear them during summer through to the new season.
It was only a few seasons ago I couldn’t go a day on my commute without noticing London girls wearing the Gucci barrette clip. You know the one? Now, the Prada iterations are already gaining similar status and the AW21 shows prove designer logo accessories aren’t going anywhere. If it isn’t a Loewe brooch pinned to a blazer (and later to beanie hats as seen at Chanel), it’s earrings, necklaces and anything else that shows off your favourite label.
Yes, yes and hell yes to co-ordinating outfits. Cool co-ords have been around for a while and matching your mask to your outfit became a thing in 2020, but now Chloé, Burberry, Gabriela Hearst and co. have taken it one step further. Complete camouflage bags are the order of the day and I’m all for it. Whether it’s a print, colour or theme you run with, it doesn’t matter as long as it blends in seamlessly with your vibe that day.
There’s no such thing as OTT anymore. Dressing up has reached new heights, and that’s just for brunch. Take note from Saint Laurent and accessorize all areas with chocker necklaces, oversized pendants, statement-making earrings and rhinestones galore. Not sure which ones to wear for a night out or just a casual park trip? Layer them. The more the merrier with this one, there’s no time to wait for party season to show off your beloved jewels.
Did anyone else used to collect belts? 2002 me loved to complete every outfit with one—low slung and probably studded. Fast forward to 2021, and I feel the urge to wear them once again. This time, though, instead of giant waist-cinchers or super skinny styles, it’s all about timeless belts with a fancy buckle. Like the cult Gucci double G belt, classic hardware is about to shine once again.
There’s never a wrong time of the year to buy a great pair of sunglasses. I still haven’t bought the Bottega Veneta pair I’ve had my eye on, and I’m glad I waited seeing as I’m now swayed by the ’70s styles that keep popping up. Think oversized with colourful lenses, tortoiseshell prints and directional shapes. Here to update any outfit for the rest of the year, Balmain has set the standard for a winning pair but I’ve managed to find so many other great shades.
Up next, the autumn outfits we can’t wait to wear. Opening image: @thestylestalkercom
