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How to Update Your Accessories for Fall

With Labor Day behind us and the official start of fall right around the corner, you may already have your cooler-weather clothes pressed and ready for the season, but what about your accessories? Just as you transition your wardrobe with the drop in temperature, you should also give your accessory drawer a changeover. This fall, there are several eye-catching and accessible trends in the jewelry, shoe, and handbag departments. With lots of statement pieces to experiment with and add to your autumnal style, here are some tips for freshening up your accessories this fall.

First, put aside the dainty baubles of summer. It’s time to dust off your chunky chain necklaces and chain-link bracelets. Heavier, more industrial jewelry styles are on trend this season. Think door-knocker earrings, sculptural pendants, and cocktail rings. Of course, wear these designs one at a time. Fall is the name of the season, not what you want to have happen to you when you’re weighed down with jewelry.

Heftiness will also be seen in this season’s crop of bags. Oversized totes and big shoulder bags are slated to be the ultimate statement piece for the months ahead. So, say goodbye to your straw and cross-body bags, and make room — literally — to sling an “everything-but-the-kitchen-sink” style purse over your shoulder. However, try not to jam it full to the brim, especially if you’re going with a fast-fashion tote. Bargain bags will probably not have the best, most durable straps — so carry with caution.

For sneakers this fall, think retro-sleek as opposed to chunky. Old reliable brands like Reebok and Converse have re-issued vintage kicks just in time for autumn. Opt for solid colors and simple designs. And don’t feel like sneakers are just for the gym; athletic shoes are more ubiquitous now than ever. This season, you can wear them with dresses, trousers, as well as jeans and jumpsuits.

This fall’s “it” boot has a squared toe and, like sneakers, trends toward vintage styles. Think mid-calf lace-ups, or equestrian-inspired riding boots. Keep your standard black knee-highs in the closet and go with a two-tone or embroidered pair. Western-style boots fit right into this trend and, like sneakers, can be worn with just about everything. Skirts and dresses especially, but also consider pairing a statement boot with a cropped loose pant or culottes. Just be sure to wear them to show them. Don’t hide the light of a retro square-toed boot under the bushel of an oversized, wide-legged trouser.

Of course, fall accessories would not be complete without scarves and hats. Like jewelry and bags, bigger equals better is the trend this year. Blanket-style scarves, stoles, and knit infinity scarves are de rigueur for the upcoming autumn. Wear oversized scarves like shawls and wraps that go over your outfit, instead of trying to layer them under a jacket or blazer. As for hats, this season, leave your knit beanies and berets in storage, and trade in your straw floppy hat from the summer for a felt version. Wide-brimmed fedoras and trilbies will also be popular.

True, this does sound like these pieces can add up to a lot of looks. Big jewelry, big bag, statement boots, oversized scarves, and a wide-brimmed hat will overwhelm an outfit if worn all at the same time. The trick to pulling off this year’s fall accessory trends is to pick one (maybe two) around which to add flair to your ensemble. Think of your favorite LBD (little black dress) and go with a hefty chain necklace and keep the rest of your accessories simple. Or add some texture to a sweater and jeans with a large, plaid wrap-style scarf and retro sneakers. Have those square-toed boots peek out from a floral midi-length dress, and if you’re feeling extra bold, top things off with a woven Panama hat. Play around with different combinations keeping functionality in mind. You don’t want to be weighed down with accessories and teetering on high-heeled boots.

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