We've all been there: staring at a closet of worn-to-the-max outfit options, longing for an update but not knowing where to start. A few simple fashion tricks can broaden your possibilities, breathing new life into the old and inspiring further style adventures:
Colorful Accessories
Consistency of color is the key to this technique. Choosing multiple accessories in the same bright hue can modernize tried-and-true ensembles in dark colors like black, brown and gray. For example, update the classic black dress with a chunky teal bangle. Add shoes in the same blue-green hue, and finish the look by brushing the shade over eyelids as a makeup enhancer.
Avoid overdoing it. Pairing a gray blouse with red shoe, earring, bracelet, lipstick and purse selections takes the ensemble from stylishly colorful to frighteningly overkill. Focus on a few quality colorful pieces that make a statement, and watch as they revive that trusty top you've had for years.
Plum Eye Makeup
A new shade of eye makeup can provide a lift for little expense. Plum and eggplant hues add richness to the eyes, as well as an element of the unexpected. Often not as utilized as brown tones, purple-based shades are exotic without being overbearing. A good raisin eyeliner can make the eyes pop, creating an updated daytime look without the intensity of a black liner.
While aubergine is a stunning embellishment to green eyes, brown and blue eye colors can benefit from purple-based highlights as well. Blue-eyed women should take note of their skin tone when selecting shades in the violet family. If there are pink undertones to the skin, plum eye makeup can result in a tired look; try leaning more toward the brown and less toward the pink when it comes to picking a color.
Beautiful Brooches
Brooches can add a vintage touch, transforming the entire look of an outfit. Particularly helpful when it comes to brightening up professional clothing, these baubles also enhance dresses of many styles, from the formal to the sassy. They quickly take center stage, which makes them a powerful style update. At the same time, their strength calls for moderation; keep accompanying accessories small so the brooch can take the starring role.
Enamel brooches, particularly florals, come in a variety of vibrant colors. Vintage clothing shops, antique malls and estate sales are all sources for these treasures. Even the addition of one pin to a jewelry box can make a difference in multiple outfits--it's worth the small investment.
An Everyday Necklace
There are times when one grand accessory takes the spotlight, but some outfits beg for a small finishing touch. Having a signature necklace that can be worn often will help solve this fashion dilemma while serving as a special flourish that compliments a variety of ensembles. A necklace that works well with multiple outfits may be on the small side, featuring a petite pendant or dainty beads.
If the piece includes a chain, the metal should nicely complement your other jewelry options. For example, if you almost never wear gold, stick with silver or platinum for this strand. The bead, charm or pendant colors should be neutral or showcase a color you wear often. A small clear crystal or rhinestone-embellished pendant will add interest to a variety of outfits without overpowering them.
The recent trend of reclaimed vintage jewelry features pieces that combine remnants from past adornments for a more updated look. If you're the crafty type, try taking apart a vintage necklace to isolate a smaller piece that can stand on its own. Loop it onto a chain of your choice, and enjoy your one-of-a-kind creation.
Already have an everyday necklace? Consider acquiring a second one for a change, or for an addition to your neckline jewelry. Layered chains, if kept light, can enliven an outfit without taking over.
Bold Nail Polish
Nail polish provides an opportunity to test drive bold colors you may not automatically select for clothing options. Your nails can become a canvas for auditioning new color choices to compliment your skin tone. Shades of polish may mirror the season's latest color trends and inject a hint of fun into your palette.
Exploring color through nail polish may lead to a new discovery for your overall look; a hue that brings your skin to life in small doses may be the inspiration for your next clothing purchase.
Have Fun
Style updates are your chance to welcome the new. This is not the time to hold back; seize the opportunity and indulge a whim or three. Not every choice will lead you to fashion perfection, but at the very least, you may have some fun on the way to your next great style find.
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