Style
8 Accessory Trends For The Winter-Spring Transition
Before the new season officially arrives, start sprucing up your spring wardrobe with these top accessory trends
Another seasonal change is upon us, and while it may be tempting to dive into a whole new wardrobe to set the right tone, you don’t need to completely overhaul your closet. If you’re smart and conscious about your fashion investments, you can easily refresh your looks with a few timeless yet trend-forward accessories that’ll help transition your style into the warmer months ahead. Read on to explore the accessory trends of the moment, and how you can effortlessly weave them into your style.
Coastal Comfort
Time to ditch those thick boots and step into spring with footwear that’s all about versatility and a fresh look; swapping out winter shoes is one of the easiest ways to give your wardrobe a seasonal update, both for the changing weather and the changing vibes. But before you whip out those trusty clogs, sneakers and loafers, there’s a new trending contender: the preppy boat shoe.
The resurgence of the boat shoe came from major runway moments last year by Loewe, Miu Miu, Sézane and Bally, while street-style circuits around the world have also adopted the look. We get why: boat shoes are comfortable and spring-weather-friendly, regardless if the streets you’re trodding are rain-soaked or hot and humid. They’re also stylish enough to pair with everything from jeans and trousers to dresses and skirts. Lessen the nautical effect – and up the sophistication factor – by styling them with loose-fitting jeans and a leather jacket, perhaps a blazer and wide-legged trousers, or even a breezy midi dress for a cheerful look.
[Pictured: Boat Shoes by Free People, Boat Shoes by Vagabond]
Packing Light
Bid farewell to heavy winter bags with their dark hues and chunky hardware. For spring, we’re embracing the opposite: earthy textures, light fabrics and feel-good colours. And if the current weather doesn’t allow for a complete outfit transformation just yet, at least this one small tweak will have your look singing of spring, even while your puffer jacket is still on rotation. This month, follow in the footsteps of The Row, Bottega Veneta or Jacquemus, and make raffia and woven materials your ticket to a seamless transition that’s also very modern.
If you’re thinking woven bags are for the farmer’s market or your next trip to the beach, think again. Today’s iterations feature intricate artisanal craftsmanship, sleek designs and sturdy materials that can take you from city shopping to seaside strolls, day or night. Its free-spirited, bohemian charm makes this bag trend the perfect addition to a warmer-weather ensemble.
[Pictured: Raffia Bag by Hereu, Woven Tote by Loeffler Randall]
Flower Power
While winter jewellery gravitates towards dainty gold or silver and chunkier solid pieces, spring is all about playful, colourful accessories that provide an uplifting final touch. All the better if you incorporate the universal motif of the season, because – no news here – florals are in.
This year, forget the delicate little blossoms; instead mimic the maximalist force seen on collections by Saint Laurent, Hermès and Acne Studio, opting for bold, oversized floral pieces. From chunky rose pendants and chokers to big, blossoming earcuffs, sculptural studs and brooches, this year’s jewellery department is taking a ‘more is more’ approach.
[Pictured: Earrings by Sterling King, Necklace by Destree]
Sci-Fi Shades
You’ll need a pair of sunglasses that can handle capricious weather, and right now, the trend is clear: futuristic styles with abstract, sculptural frames, maxi proportions, alien-inspired finishes, and mirrored or tinted lenses all add an edgy, mysterious aspect to the classically feminine spring look.
From Miu Miu and Prada to Alexander McQueen and Zimmermann, fashion brands are offering a glimpse into the future, and the result is fun, cool and – believe it or not – flattering to most face shapes. That said, do tone down the rest of your look, for example with neutral basics, so that the entire focus goes to your statement accessory. For this trend, use simple styling math and combine a polished, no-fuss top (think: clean neckline and neutral colours) with no more than one oversized piece, to avoid overdoing it.
Vintage Vibes
When it comes to neckwear, make room for silk, because we’ve got news: granny chic is back, and it’s the ideal trend to help you glide into spring like Grace Kelly. This look is all about embracing a more glamorous kind of layering that feels fresher and more whimsical than bundling up in heavy knits.
To nail the spring-ready look, you’ve got options. Wrap a silk scarf around your head and tie it under the chin for some old-school, out-for-a-weekend-drive flair. Alternatively, use it to finish off a ponytail, twist it into a braid, wear it as a sleek headband, or simply tie it around your neck as a sunny-day scarf that exudes ‘old money’ charm.
[Pictured: Floral Silk Scarf by Lost Pattern, Beach Silk Scarf by Scapes by Elizabeth]
Chic Shield
Hats are a winter hero for keeping our heads and ears snug and toasty, but you don’t have to ditch the style once spring rolls in; just replace your beanie with headgear that offers a lightweight, sun-kissed touch. Enter the straw hat: timeless, elegant and especially ‘in’ this year. Not only is it your best weapon against the blazing sun, but it also instantly elevates any outdoor look.
From Jacquemus and Loewe to Gucci and Marni, this season’s collections are filled with ultra-couture versions of the spring/summer staple, and the vibes are bright and exotic with wider-than-ever brims. Whether styled with a boho-inspired blouse-and-skirt combo, a casual T-shirt and jeans, a polished tailored dress, or a beach cover-up, it’ll be your ultimate “spring is here” statement. Tip: tie a silk scarf around the brim for a two-in-one dose of haute couture.
[Pictured: Sunhat by Avenue The Label, Visor by Cuyana]
On Time And On Point
No outfit is truly complete without a timepiece, and while watches aren’t a seasonally specific accessory, fashion houses are currently diving headfirst into the colour and vibrancy of spring with, well, more colour and vibrancy. We’re seeing watches that truly pop, sporting bold colours, striking textures and unexpected dimensions that do more than just keep you punctual.
From Tiffany & Co’s sapphire glass piece to Tag Heuer’s bold pink dial, Cartier’s red lacquer effect, and Hermès’ blue alligator strap, the trend is less about telling time and more about wearing art on your wrist. The result? Classic button-downs, leather jackets and light cardigans properly adorned and raised to new levels of discernment – apt even for the strictest of minimalists.
Back To The ‘90s
Sure, belts hold your trousers up, but if we’re being honest, sometimes they’re not even meant for trousers at all. Particularly for the in-between seasons, they can help you go from cold-weather layers to fresh, breezy looks. If you want to stay ahead of the curve, the one to reach for right now is a chain belt: offering the perfect balance between effortlessly undone and impeccably on-trend, this boho-meets-luxe accessory is a current ‘it’ item for brands like Chloé, Isabel Marant and Chanel.
While the runways featured belts accentuating ultra-low hemlines for nostalgic vibes, you can use yours to accent a dress, upgrade a circle skirt or cinch in a blazer. To avoid your other accessories competing against it, stick to a straightforward ensemble with pieces in solid colours or simple patterns.
[Pictured: Belt by Rixo, Belt by & Other Stories]
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.