
Classic Fashion Accessories Checklist
All you really need to look your best―from the basics to seasonal essentials.
Basic Accessories
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Diamond studs
The only earrings you’ll ever need to own. They’ll definitely set you back, but they will never go out of style.
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Black or brown leather handbag
It won't get as dirty as a print or light tone and it will pair with all colors.
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Nylon rain hat
Combines practicality with sleek contemporary style.
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Ring closure belt
With no holes, it’s very easy to adjust to your particular shape.
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Loafers
Comfortable, and they look smart with almost everything.
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Tank watch
Has the elegance of a bracelet with the practicality of, well, a watch. Band choice is purely personal preference—black, white, silver, or stainless steel are all classic wristbands.
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Cashmere scarf (pashmina)
This wrap has evolved from a passing fad to a wardrobe staple.
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Rain boots
They look as good splashing through puddles on a dirt road as they do with a knee-length skirt out on the town.
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Tote bag
A practical companion, whether you’re walking to the office, heading to the beach, or scouting flea markets.
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Colorful handbag
A surprisingly versatile way to kick up neutral outfits. Stick to classic shapes such as the bucket or hobo.
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Small rolling suitcase
For short vacations or long-weekend getaways.
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Overnight bag
Keep a moderately sized bag on hand for quick jaunts.
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Umbrella
A full-size one will likely keep you drier, but a compact umbrella can easily fit in a handbag or tote.
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Neutral sling-back heels
Own at least one pair of neutral heels—they’re extremely versatile and perpetually in fashion.
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Sleek sneakers
Now streamlined and available in powerhouse colors, sneakers are like sportier ballet flats: Just slip them on with jeans or pants and go.
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Leather belt
A black or brown belt is a style perennial.
Fall Accessories
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Leather gloves
More sophisticated than mittens, they also last longer.
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Riding boots (flat leather boots)
Invest in a black or brown pair to give your fall wardrobe extra polish.
Winter Accessories
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Snow boots
Think of both comfort and lifestyle when choosing a pair, from outdoorsy and rugged to sleek and fur-lined.
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Earmuffs
While these may not be for everyone, they’re a great alternative to a plain cable-knit winter hat.
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Leg warmers
Great to wear with boots—or with a coat that just grazes the middles of your calves.
Spring Accessories
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Striped tote
Pick cheerful stripes to reflect the brightness of the season.
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Colorful heels
Give your neutral footwear a rest in the spring and bring a classic khaki skirt or pants to life with vibrant heels.
Summer Accessories
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Casual hat
Perfect (and sensible) for the beach, and always a good idea for those who need to shield color-treated hair from the sun.
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Silk scarf
Wear it on your head, around your neck, as a belt, or a bandeau—or simply tie it onto a handbag strap.
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Cloth belt
A nice change from the dark leather belt you use throughout the colder seasons; a color or pattern pairs well with white jeans or shorts.
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Sarong
An exotic and attractive cover-up for the Caribbean—or the community pool.
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Straw basket
Looks good in the city, in the country, at the beach.
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Accented sandals
Spice up any summer outfit with beaded or jeweled slip-ons.