I've said it before, and I'll say it again, accessories are magical things. There's no point in debating the subject. I won't be told otherwise. What else has the power to elevate a basic jeans-and-T-shirt outfit like a piece of jewellery or, indeed, boasts the ability to make a dress work for day or night like a well-chosen shoe? Accessories unlock more outfit potential in a way clothes simply cannot, and in my book, that makes them magic.
Assuming we're in agreement, I thought it might be of interest to talk you through the biggest accessory trends 2023 has to offer, as seen on the spring runways. The new designer collections are always the first place I look for accessory inspo for the year ahead, and there's a distinct balance in playfulness and timelessness.
Sitting alongside frou frou corsages, for instance, is the handbag trend I know every minimalist will want to and absolutely should be coveting. This season is going to be a tale of two aesthetics—from pared-back classics to OTT maximalists—and the accessories on show will absolutely reflect that. All you need to do is choose your player, and let the games begin... Scroll on to see the very best way to set this year off with a stylish start.
1. Clutch Control
Style Notes: Although the fashion industry has been enjoying playing with micro bags for the past few seasons, for 2023, the saying "bigger is better" definitely applies. Clutches of an almost impractical size featured heavily in the collections of arm-candy heavyweights Jil Sander, Miu Miu and Simone Rocha, so they've got official backing. As for us? A stylish bag that fits not only our whole make-up bag for upcoming party season? Consider us influenced.
Shop the Trend:
Loewe has just launched the scaled mini version of their Flamenco clutch, that you're about to see everywhere this autumn.
The ultimate day-to-night accessory? We think so.
We're quite taken with this denim iteration.
2. Ballet Class
Style Notes: Ballet shoes were absolutely one of last. year's most in-demand shoe trends thanks in no small part to Miu Miu, whose satin ballerinas have been a hit with the Instagram style set. For 2023, the obsession continues with luxe velvet, pretty metallics and practical but chic Parisian style at it's very best.
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We're personally lusting after these and pairing with a crisp white shirt & some boyfriend jeans doesn't sound too bad to us...
These are straight-up angelic.
These are back in stock, run don't walk.
3. Something Silver
Style Notes: After years of yellow gold tones reigning the jewellery scene, with rose gold briefly stealing the show, now it's time to embrace all things silver once more. Chunky silver necklaces, earrings and bangles adorned models during countless spring/summer runways, and I'm already seeing the ripple effects hit the market. FYI mixing of metals also highly encouraged.
Shop the Trend:
If there is one piece of jewellery that screams new season its the simple stud, whether they are jumbo or mismatched like this Cos version they are everywhere right now.
This necklace was made to be worn layered up, safe to say we are obsessed with the longer length.
A chic investment piece.
4. Boot Up
Style Notes: Autumn is incoming so that can only mean one thing, boots and we for one can't wait. From sock-like knee high boots, slouchy suede to chunky flat riding-esque boots, this is one accessory that is firmly back on our radar. Wear now with bare legs and come winter just add tights.
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Just look at that slouch. We are hooked.
Invest in a great pair of knee highs now, and they'll see you through so many months.
These will look great with everything from denim to midi dresses.
5. Coming Up Roses
Style Notes: If you want your outfits to look more current in two seconds flat, I have the solution: Stick a corsage on it! Worn by way of jewellery, belts and brooches at Emporio Armani, Valentino and Miu Miu, this is 2023's prettiest accessory trend by far.
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This is just dreamy.
The perfect way to overhaul an old black dress.
We're seeing these floral chokers everywhere! Keep the outfit simple and just add one (preferably with a pop of colour or print, like this one) to instantly elevate the look.
6. Tights Please
Style Notes: Now we are not talking about your basic black opaque here, get ready to embrace a pair of statement making tights. Fancy and fun, designers have well and truuly embraced hosiery this season. See Victoria Beckham who teamed elegant tailoring with black fishnets. For a more out-there option try bright colour, such as those seen at Gucci and David Koma.
Shop the Trend:
H&M is one of our go-tos when it comes to accessories.
Such a fab colour.
Did someone says chic?
Next Up, Experts Agree: These Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends Really Count
This piece was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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