I firmly believe that not all accessories were created equal. From amid the tangle of jewellery and clutches and scarves strewn across my bedroom (my usually ordered wardrobe has descended into inelegant clumps as my PhD heats up), there are certain dependable accessories I rely on to elevate an outfit from average to fabulous in seconds flat. Excellent news, friends: with a few key investments killer style is achievable on a daily basis without any tears or sweat at all. The accessories I refer to will draw admiring glances for seasons to come and provide irrefutable bang for your buck. Sound enticing? Alright, let’s talk turkey.
- Statement Sunglasses
Statement sunglasses are without a doubt the key accessory in my wardrobe, and the one I advise you to invest in first. Notice how I’m using the word invest here. While brands like Le Specs have upped their game in recent seasons and have some cool styles, I’m a quality fanatic when it comes to sunnies and will always pay more to ensure I get the best. This has nothing to do with designer labels (truly!) and everything to do with how this statement accessory is going to wear in the months and years ahead. Details that don’t seem important initially take on vital significance when you’re whiling away an afternoon at Ku De Ta in Bali. I’m talking about little things like nose pads. Are they soft and silicone-coated, or sharp and nasty? And if the pair of sunglasses you’re considering are nose pad-free, how do they actually sit on your face? Do a few laps of the store. Are they sliding down your cheeks or sitting neatly in place? Are they high on one side or perfectly symmetrical? And what about the materials of the frames themselves? Are they sturdy and oozing quality, or plasticy and cheap?
Now that we’ve considered practicalities, it’s time to talk style. When choosing a statement accessory, you need to think realistically about your wardrobe. Do you wear a lot of black? Splendid! Now’s the time to inject personality and fun into your attire with some bright sunnies. This fab Dior pair, with their three bands of polarised colour, would be an excellent choice for you. If your wardrobe tends towards classic pieces, then the pair of Prada D-frames below—a timeless shape zhooshed up with speckled dusky pinks and browns—have your name written all over them.
Or perhaps you’re a gal who just wants to have fun. Then the Preen by Thornton Bregazzi mirrored cat’s eye pair I’m wearing in the main pic—the latest addition to my sunglass wardrobe (yes husband, that’s a thing)—are your new best friends. As long as you consider the rest of your wardrobe and proceed accordingly, investing in a pair of statement sunglasses will be the smartest style decision you ever make. Time to burst out of that comfort zone.
- Killer Heels
Heels lift an outfit, right? Duh. The thing is, I’m not talking about just any old heels. Sure, that patent black pump will compliment a bunch of looks. But will it make them sing? Will it stop passers-by in their tracks and encourage them to reach out with a compliment and a smile? (If this sounds vain and self-serving, it isn’t. I’ve had so many uplifting conversations with women this way—whether I’ve started by admiring an element of their outfit or vice versa. Communities are built from positive exchanges with complete strangers, I sincerely believe this.) The fact is, I don’t actually own a simple black or nude stiletto. Call me crazy, but I’d far rather invest my money in a killer heel that’s going to blow accessory ennui out of the water. (Accessory ennui—I just came up with that!)
These crimson Valentino Rockstud heels and gold lace-up Sophia Webster booties were both staggeringly expensive, each costing around a thousand dollars. But every time I wear them my heart flutters in my chest. And what price happiness? Seriously, though, an accessory that is endlessly useful and able to elevate everything from a simple black pant to a pleated silver midi skirt into kick-ass territory? Win, win.
- Quirky Flats
I used to think that in order to really rock an outfit, you needed to bust out a pair of heels—and the higher the better. But as my style has evolved in the past couple of years I’ve come to realise the power of a striking, fun pair of flats. Not only can you stride about town without becoming crippled within a block or two, but a quirky flat is actually an ally in the style stakes. I know, I know—I’ve banged on about my new Tod’s trainers before. But the truth is they are even more terrific than I anticipated. They’re the perfect neutral accessory, meaning they work with an astonishing number of outfits, yet they’re still statement enough to shine.
They also have that cool street style thang goin’ on, which for a look that is supposed to be effortless often requires a surprising amount of effort. Not here. Lace these babies up and they’re good to go.
Brogues are another great choice for flats, especially if they have an added element of interest such as a metallic finish, studs or sexy cut-outs. They make you look suave and put-together while still imbuing an outfit with quirky confidence. I miss this retired pair dearly.
Luckily, quirky flats are everywhere at the moment and are one statement accessory I am happy to scrimp on. As long as they are sturdy enough to survive tramping through the streets of Rome en route to the best gelato (the wild cherry flavour at Giolitti, in case you were wondering), then they are good enough for me. Might as well pick up a second pair while you’re at it.
Well, friends—it’s farewell for now from me. K and I are off to the beautiful mountains of Springbrook tomorrow, where I plan to drink copious amounts of pinot noir in front of the fire and read in the dappled sunshine of Mum’s garden. I might even hike, if I get around to it. See you next Sunday! 🙂
Antonia xo
PHOTOGRAPHY – Sharleen Christie