3 Simple Accessories to Give Your Outfit That Extra “Umph”

When it comes to fashion pet-peeves, one of mine is when your outfit is lacking the perfect accessories—you can just feel that something’s missing, ya know? Thankfully, I’ve discovered a simple little trifecta to take your outfit from “just eh” to “mmmm, werk it girl.” (Okay, so maybe these accessories won’t take your look *quite* to that level, but you get the point.)

First, I would just like to point out how pleasingly matchy-matchy my outfit is. From the pink purse pairing with the pink background of the shorts, to the black sandals matching the black centers of the flowers…Even my pastel blue nails go with the look! I know Stacy and Clinton from “What Not to Wear” would say that matching is so one decade ago, but I still enjoy that satisfaction of everything pairing perfectly together.

So what’s the first simple accessory to add a little pizazz to your outfit?? Brooches! Pins have been coming back these past few seasons, and I am HERE. FOR. IT. I love the vintage style and the unique aspect they add to any look. My two flower pins are actually hair decorations that I just clipped onto the pocket of my jean jacket; however, any sort of sparkly or thrifted brooch would work as well! I know pins can be a little difficult to style, but if you’re ever in doubt, pair it with a denim jacket. You can never go wrong ‘cause they always look great on the collar or pocket area (and won’t leave a visible hole in the fabric). You can shop some pretty brooches here! I especially like this fun pineapple pin.

Next up? Hair clips and barrettes! As another huge trend this season, barrettes are making a major comeback from the 90s and early 2000s. And again, I’m digging it! I’ve always loved decorating my hair as much as my neck or wrists, so I really enjoy seeing how top bloggers and social media influencers are hopping on this trend to style them in new, creative ways. I kept these long parallel pins pretty classic, but I encourage you to experiment with arrangement and placement. Here’s a cute set of pearl barrettes to purchase!

I couldn’t resist the dorky but (maybe?) cute photo-op above. Warning: Extreme Close-Up below.

Last but not least is dainty layered necklaces. As much as I love my bold statement necklaces, delicate layered jewelry has been having a major moment for quite a while now, so naturally a few small pieces is the perfect way to wrap up any outfit. The trick with necklaces, of course, is to vary them in length. Both of mine are from Francesca’s! I also usually like to add one long pendant necklace for a set of three, but I couldn’t find the piece I wanted to wear for this post (whoops).

In the photos directly above and below, you can see the difference these three accessories make in the outfit. It’s not super drastic, but when you remove the necklaces, hair pins, and flower brooches, the look definitely lacks something. The accessories are the subtle pieces that give it that extra “umph”!

What accessories do you like to rock in order to spice up an outfit?? Would you try this pairing? Thanks for reading, and have a wonderful Monday!

Miles of smiles,

Grace

White Tee: A.N.A. via JCPenney, $9 // Jean Jacket: JCPenney, $19 // Floral Shorts: Loft, $18 // Black Wavy Sandals: Macy’s, $28 // Black Sunglasses: Charming Charlie, $7 // Pink Polka Dot Purse: Kate Spade New York, gift