Accessorize for Added Value
Updated: Mar. 20, 2019
Accessories add variety to your wardrobe, transforming clothes from ultra casual to dressed up, or taking a simple outfit from day to evening. A few well-chosen items can make a simple, inexpensive outfit look like a designer creation.
Second-Hand Hats
One of the hottest fall accessories is the hat, but you don’t have to blow the budget to make a style statement. Whether you’re hankering for a structured fedora, a feminine cloche or a soft, wool poor boy, try eBay. There are many available at great prices and they’re likely to be almost brand new, as many women will purchase one just for a special occasion.
Bags of Style
Look out for old leather handbags from second-hand stores or the family attic. Vintage handbags saved by your mother or aunt have a timeless appeal, and a second-hand Chanel bag would be a real style find. Old leather camera cases and satchels also make unique accessories. Clean up old bags with saddle soap, then use shoe polish and buff well. For a quick shine, rub with hand cream and wipe off with a tissue.
Winning Ways with Scarves
A scarf is one of the most versatile accessories in your wardrobe.
- Use a large woollen one as a fall shawl or poncho instead of a coat.
- Twist a wide cotton scarf into a bikini top for the beach, or use a big scarf as a sarong.
- Wear a narrow scarf or a necktie as a belt with jeans or casual pants.
- Use a small scarf to tie up long hair into a ponytail.
Quick Fixes for Second-Hand Jewellery
Repair gold or silver-plated jewellery with a fine paint brush and gold or silver spray paint. Spray a little paint onto a piece of cardboard, dip in the brush and touch up the chips.
To unknot a chain, lay it on a piece of wax paper. Put a drop or two of baby oil directly onto the knot. Use two needles to gently untangle the knot then blot the oil with tissues.
If the post on a pierced earring has broken, use a nail file to smooth off any residual glue from the back, then mount a new post (available from your local craft store) with permanent glue.If the pin on the back of a brooch is broken don’t throw it away-put it on a chain to make a necklace, sew it to a jacket or repair it with permanent glue.
Buttons and Bows
The buttons and other trims used on designer or vintage clothes are sometimes worth more than the garment itself. Look for damaged second-hand designer outfits going for a song in second-hand stores, snip off the buttons and use them to give a touch of class to a plain jacket or sweater.
