As we veer towards the transitional season and part with the idea of shrunken hems gracing bare legs and open-toe footwear, fashion turns its attention to the foolproof nature of accessories. As a fashion editor, I always refer to the power of accessories. Often boasting a considered price point and intentionality, accessories have the power to elevate even the most refined ensembles.
Accessories have been growing stronger, with emphasis on unapologetically bold styles, elegant colourways and nostalgic jewellery trends of the nineties. The most notable have included bold earrings (a style we’ve witnessed morph since 2023 in seashell shapes and textured hammered gold) to summer 2024’s introduction of overstated florals. The same rings true for brown suede bags. Chocolate suede graced the accessory forecast last summer but it’s truly taken off and invited some of the most luxurious-looking styles from entry-level designers akin to cherished designer names. Least forgetting the rope necklaces, swinging high and low, comprising glass, stone and metal pendants.
So, from snake print to stone jewellery and mesh footwear, keep reading for seven elegant accessory trends to guarantee a fashionable look.
Elegant Accessories Trends Fashion People Love:
1. Chocolate Brown Bags
Style Notes: The chances are, you’ve cottoned on to the plethora of brown suede bags dominating retailers (specifically the chocolatey variety). It’s a trend-forward piece I’ve been ogling for a year and I’ve finally welcomed one into my midst. From styling with a classic denim and white shirt uniform to a summer outfit, it counts as a transitional accesory.
Shop Brown Suede Bags:
DeMellier
The Midi New York
DeMellier has become one of the most coveted handbag brands of the last few years.
Little Liffner
Sprout Tote Dark Brown Suede
The Sprout tote is the latest addition to my handbag collection. Buttery soft and with enough room to fit more than a handful of goods, it’s one worthy of investment.
2. Cord Necklaces
Style Notes: It’s not the first encounter we’ve had with the pendant on a rope chain, in fact it’s a style reminiscent of the noughties and a playful era of fashion. This year, however, the style boasts a “grown-up” appeal with a touch of bohemian charm, due to the bold polished metals and energetic stones adorned on the rope chain.
Shop Cord Necklaces:
3. Snake Print Shoes
Style Notes: Snake print is slithering onto retail sites daily, and I’ve piqued the interest of minimalists. Featured in a neutral colour with a hint of texture, it’s a smart way to add intrigue to monochromatic ensembles. We’re mainly seeing this print trend pop up through footwear, but you can also tap into the trend with handbags, too.
Shop Snake Print Shoes:
Whistles
Nila Snake Slingback Heel
These slingbacks look incredibly premium. It’s in the tone and delicate t-bar feature.
aquazzura
Blade 65 snake-effect leather pumps
Aquazzura always nail the animal print brief in the most unassuming.
4. Pearl Accent Earrings:
Style Notes: I’m no stranger to pearls, I’d go as far as to say they’re part of my uniform. Pearls have had a contemporary switch up—from bashed pearls to perfectly rounded spheres, there are styles to suit all.
Shop Pearls :
& Other Stories
Freshwater Pearl Hoops
I’ve owned these pearls for over five years and can therefore attest to the quality.
MELISSA JOY MANNING
14-Karat Recycled Gold Pearl Earrings
Opt for a wiry hoop and a flattened pearl for a contemporary take directional.
JENNIFER BEHR
Anguilla Gold-Plated Faux Pearl Earrings
One of my favourite ways to wear pearls is with gold accents.
5. Mesh Shoes
Style Notes: Perforated flats have dominated trends for an entire season and they’re growing stronger. As we approach the transitional season and begin to consider (somewhat) closed-toe options, mesh shoes offer a suitable (and stylish) medium.
Shop Mesh Shoes:
LE MONDE BERYL
Patent Leather-Trimmed Mesh Mary Jane Ballet Flats
Between Le Monde Beryl and Alaïa, flats have never been so sought after. It’s a job well done.
6. Resin Jewellery
Style Notes: Akin to the marbles you’d play with in childhood, resin jewellery has an inherent nostalgic feel with a slight nod to refinement, due to the candied colour pallet.
Shop Resin Jewellery:
7. Bold Blooms
Style Notes: Earrings are becoming progressively bigger and bolder and there are no complaints from me. Last season welcomed a host of shapes and this season, there’s a clear focus on burgeoning blooms.