It’s often touted in fashion circles that accessories make the outfit (or perhaps that’s just something I’ve always heard from my accessory-obsessed mother?), and there is no time this notion rings truer than in spring and summer. With puffers and outfit-covering coats put away, the warmer months are when accessories can really shine, be it a sleek pair of shades, a statement-making necklace or a fun printed scarf.
If you’re looking to add a pop of personality to your look without breaking the bank, an interesting accessory is one foolproof way to do so. With this in mind, I set out to find some affordable summer accessories that will work to enhance any outfit. I trawled through the web, using influencers as my inspiration to see what’s already trending online, and of course, the style set did not disappoint.
From mood-boosting jewellery to sun-smart bucket hats and those ubiquitous chunky flats, keep scrolling for seven affordable accessory trends I’ll be trying this summer.
Tie it around a basket bag, tie it around your ponytail, or tie it around yourself as a top at the beach. With a silk scarf, the summery options are practically endless. It’s such a versatile accessory and one of the simplest ways to add a pop of pattern or colour to an outfit.
Back home in Australia, my primary school had a very strict “no hat, no play” policy. And for the sake of skincare and sun smarts, I’m personally bringing this rule back into my life over summer. Thankfully, there is an array of bucket hats to choose from, whether your personal vibe is floral and printed or minimalist and plain.
Don’t get me wrong—I love classic silver and gold as much as the next person, but this summer, influencers seem to be transitioning to jewellery that brings a little more joy. Think multicoloured necklaces, beaded bracelets and more.
While they might remind some of the ’80s, scrunchies are back, and this summer, they’re chicer than ever before. Don’t let Carrie Bradshaw deter you, plenty of stylish women are championing the scrunchie these days. And better yet, lots of sustainable brands are now making the accessory using off-cuts and leftover fabric, so they’re also eco-friendly.
No surprises here. Chunky sandals are once again at the top of the footwear list for 2021. Whether you opt for a Teva iteration or the ever-popular Dune two-strap sandals, it seems the sturdier the better this summer.
This one is rather self-explanatory, as sunglasses are one of the summer essentials we rely on year after year. This summer, I’m opting for tortoiseshell frames and sleek silhouettes like oval, rectangle and cat-eye.
On days when you want to upgrade from your chunky flats, strappy sandals are the way to go. There are plenty of great options floating around the high street. Plus, many of them come with block heels for added support.
