I'm Sad These Accessory Trends No Longer Feel Fresh—These 5, However, Are It
Everyone has that one accessory they adore. Be it handbags, scarves or jewellery, it's easy to fall for the finishing touches that make up an outfit. As with clothes, accessory trends come and go. The truly brilliant styles stand the test of time, making the most of their cost per wear, but just like the revival of maxi skirts, baggy jeans and zebra print, trends form within accessories, making some feel fresher than others.
If you're looking to revitalise your looks without completely overhauling your wardrobe, adding in fresh or trending accessories to the mix can breath fresh life into your looks. And as everything in fashion is cyclical, you know that even when these trends are "out," it's only a matter of time before you'll be reaching for them again.
Our fashion team definitely has their favourite accessories, and they're here to share the five trends they love right now.
1. Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief
Dated: Bobble Hats
"There's something about the bobble that just feels too naïve and young for me these days—I'd rather go for a very plain, understated beanie."
Fresh: Any Other Hat
"I'm here for literally every other hat style this winter! Cloche, beret, bucket (especially knitted ones), wide-brim, balaclava, baker boy…"
SHOP THE TREND
2. Maxine Eggenberger, Acting Assistant Editor
Dated: Headbands
"I've always loved simple Alice bands, but things have gotten too oversized and embellished for my liking. I still regularly wear the ones I already own, but as far as investing in new styles? I think I'm good."
Fresh: Silk Scarves
"Once considered 'twee' or too preppy, the silk scarf has made a gargantuan comeback this season, and I totally get the appeal. It has the power to make everything you wear look just that little bit more luxe, and that's enough of a selling point as far as I'm concerned. Need another? They're incredibly versatile; wear yours around your neck, tied to your bag handles, as a top, or, indeed, in your hair in lieu of a band."
SHOP THE TREND
There are so many ways to style a silk scarf.
3. Remy Farrell, Shopping Editor
Dated: Traditional Evening Clutch Bags
"No judgement if you still reach for a clutch for dinners and weddings, but every time I see a hard-box or envelope clutch, it makes me think of my high-school prom. That's not the vibe I'm going for nowadays."
Fresh: Mini Top-Handle Bags
"That's not to say I don't need a bag for fancier occasions. Instead, I reach for cute micro bags—the sort Jacquemus and Balenciaga are serving up right now—with adorable top handles to boot."
SHOP THE TREND
A seriously elegant addition to any wardrobe.
Make this your plus-one for dates, dinners and parties.
4. Emily Dawes, Affiliates Editor
Dated: Bucket Bags
"Nothing against bucket bags. I have a fair few classic styles in my collection I will wear forever. But as a way of making outfits feel incredibly fresh, throwing a slouchy crossbody over your outfit is such an easy option (and let's be honest, less opportunity for pickpocketers!)."
Fresh: Crossbody Bags
"Thanks to The Row's Banana Bag (of course), these cool crossbody bags have become a staple accessory shape for the fashion crowd, and they've even made it to the high street this season."
SHOP THE TREND
I love a versatile bag, and this style can be worn crossbody, round your waist or over one shoulder.
5. Florrie Alexander, Fashion Contributor
Dated: Delicate Jewellery
"For the last few years, dainty jewellery has reigned supreme, from tiny huggie hoops to single thin chain necklaces. Right now, more is more in the world of jewellery, but don't despair. You can layer your delicate pieces with chunkier pieces to revitalise your jewellery box."
Fresh: Chunky Jewellery
"If you're in the market for new jewellery, think bigger is better. Chunky necklaces, statement earrings and stacking are all en vogue for the season."
SHOP THE TREND
One of my favourites from the Kate Young collection for Monica Vinader.
Next Up: I'm Not One for Copying Outfits, But These 9 Instagram Looks Are Perfection
Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.
During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.
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