Maybe it’s the blooming trees and flowers that surround us this time of year, but the arrival of spring tends to leave us itching for a fresh start. A rebirth of sorts. And the easiest, low-lift, low-commitment way to sartorially (and proverbially) wipe the slate clean? Accessories.
Whether you’re a lover of the classics or aspire to become more of a risk-taker, you can expect to see trends at both ends of the spectrum — think ladylike slingbacks and top-handle bags to opalescent, sea siren-inspired mules. And in addition to mermaidcore, there’s also the comfortable, casual elegance of balletcore (yes, the ballet flat is *officially* back) and an abundance of Digital Lavender, well, everything.
As with recent seasons past, the larger theme here is nostalgia, with plenty of throwback trends continuing to resurface, this time in the form of early aughts-inspired denim footwear (to pair with denim maxi skirts, of course), slouchy hobo bags, and lots of metallics. Even the flip-flops of our youth have returned, reemerging in a grown-up, night-out-appropriate fashion.
Needless to say, wherever you may fall on the fashion spectrum (or in the spirit of reinvention, wherever you’d like to), this season boasts shoe, handbag, and jewelry trends that truly cater to all. Ahead, we teamed up with Nine West to dive deeper into each one. Keep reading for your guide to the 12 biggest accessories trends of spring 2023.
Balletcore Goes Mainstream
Trend experts have been throwing the word “balletcore” around since early last year, as ballerina-inspired clothing and accessories began appearing on runways and fashion show attendees alike. Still, it wasn’t until this year that we saw the aesthetic truly take off — cue the influx of leg warmers hitting the sock and hosiery aisle. The simplest way to channel your barre best? Your shoes, given that the classic, mid-2000s ballet flat is back in a big way. For an off-duty look, pair the sensible footwear with a bodysuit and layered, lightweight knits. To go full-on prima ballerina, opt for something a bit more on-the-nose, like a tulle skirt.
Nine West Speakup Almond Toe Flats, $, available at Nine West
Mermaidcore Opalescence
And just like that, mermaids are back en vogue. But today’s mermaidcore trend is a far cry from the metallic teal eyeshadow and glittery seashell crowns of the mid-2010s festival scene. Instead, delicate baroque pearl and shell embellishments, sophisticated paillettes, and fluid, seaweed-like frills appear on both clothing and accessories — and while the trend inherently feels aquatic, close proximity to a coastline isn’t necessary. In terms of footwear, the still-trending transparent look gets a mesmerizing opalescent makeover with a holographic, abalone shell-like finish. Let iridescent shoes shine against a simple white sundress, or channel your inner Y2K Ariel with a low-slung maxi skirt and fishing-net-inspired crochet halter.
Nine West Raylen Heeled Slide Sandals, $, available at Nine West
The Hobo Bag Renaissance
We’ll always have a soft spot for the mini bag, but we also appreciate a bag with a bit of space that can hold our phone, wallet, a good book, and then some. That’s why we’re thrilled to see the slouchy hobo make its triumphant return. While some of today’s offerings nod to the boho-inspired styles popular in the ’00s, there are also plenty of fresh, modern takes on the bag shape — some small yet surprisingly roomy, others gargantuan in size. Overall, they’re one of the more practical Y2K-era trends to make a comeback (ahem, unlike ultra-low-rise jeans) and are perfect for lugging around your daily essentials when you crave something less structured than a classic shopper tote.
Nine West Doris Hobo, $, available at Nine West
Elegant, Classic Timepieces
Watches have had somewhat of a renaissance in recent years, with investment pieces deemed as much a milestone purchase as quality handbags, which explains the rise in popularity of timepieces — particularly classic styles with gold, silver, and two-tone bracelets and modestly sized faces. However, all-gold, square-faced styles seem to be the wrist candy of choice amongst the fashion set. Simple yet elegant in design, a dainty gold bracelet watch looks just as chic with a T-shirt and jeans as it does with a cocktail dress.
Nine West Square Case Bracelet Watch, $, available at Nine West
Crescent-Shaped Carryalls
Crescent-shaped, croissant-adjacent handbags first surfaced last year, giving ‘90s-inspired shoulder bags and the aforementioned slouchy hobo a more unique silhouette — and if our feeds and FYPs are any indication, they’re not going anywhere. While the exact size, textile, and color will determine whether it can be worn for day, night, or both, we consider this conversation-starting U-shaped style a surefire to make any ensemble more interesting.
Nine West Ethel Convertible Hobo, $, available at Nine West
The Return Of The Wedge
We’ve seen the classic wedge pop up here and there over the last couple of years, and to the relief to anyone who erred on the side of caution when it came to last season’s towering platforms, it’s now officially back. Much easier to navigate sidewalks and stairs than your classic heel, you’ll find this nostalgic sole on mules, thongs, pumps — even sneakers. Since styles range from casual to formal, you can style them however you please; try swapping them in for your daytime kitten heels and party-ready stilettos.
Nine West Rovah Wedge Slide Sandals, $, available at Nine West
High-Shine Metallics
Usually reserved for New Year’s Eve parties or wedding guest attire, metallic accessories tend to feel, well, kinda fancy. However, in staying true to the ongoing Y2K craze, we’ll see them enter casual territory this season. Whether classic silver and gold or shimmering pastels and jewel tones, everything from academia-inspired loafers and slouchy boots to mini shoulder bags are getting the high-shine treatment. Because metallic accessories tend to be the star of the show, we suggest paring down the rest of your look; allow them to add some oomph to a classic tee and relaxed denim or a simple silk slip.
Nine West Zest Heeled Loafers, $, available at Nine West
The Digital Lavender Takeover
Trend forecasters WGSN have predicted that “Digital Lavender,” a powdery, pastel purple, would be taking over fashion in 2023 — and they were correct. Spring is when we tend to see pastels at their peak, so we can expect to see variations of lavender on everything, including our clothes, bags, and shoes. This particular shade of purple is said to convey calmness, serenity, and joy — all the more reason to wear it from head to toe.
Nine West Saffiano Strap Watch, $, available at Nine West
Grown-Up Flip Flops
Remember the squishy foam flip-flops of our youth? You’ll be pleased to learn that the (sometimes divisive) toe-dividing style is back, and she’s all grown up. Reimagined with slender heels and chunky platforms alike, the classic thong can now be worn for activities beyond lounging poolside and is perfectly apt for the office, dinner, or even more formal occasions. Given the daintiness of the top half of this shoe, they present the perfect opportunity for playing with color, such as bold neons and soft pastels. (May we suggest Digital Lavender?)
Nine West Durlife Heeled Thong Sandals, $, available at Nine West
Unconventional Denim Footwear
The idea of denim footwear may initially sound a little intimidating, maybe even a bit over-the-top if you take the patchwork, frayed, and foldover styles seen on the catwalk (or 2022’s divisive celebrity-loved joots) into consideration — but they don’t have to be. Opt for a simple pump, mule, or ballet flat crafted from a blue jeans-inspired textile, which will be arguably more wearable, albeit a bit unconventional. Try styling yours with the skirt of the season: the denim maxi. But if Canadian tuxedos aren’t your thing, slouchy, utilitarian cargo pants in a neutral hue make a great pairing.
Nine West Cara Dress Pumps, $, available at Nine West
Prim & Proper Top-Handle Bags
If there’s one observation we’ve made for 2023, it’s the direct correlation between increased commutes to the office and the rise of structured top-handle bags. Ranging in size from briefcase to mini, these chic, work-friendly purses will have solidified their place in office (and after-work drinks) fashion. However, expect things to be more exciting in the handle department than in former pre-pandemic styles, like scrunchie-like ruching, bamboo, and more unconventional designs and materials.
Nine West Raylee Mini Top Handle Flap, $, available at Nine West
Ladylike Slingbacks
A timeless style more so than a trend, ankle-baring slingbacks certainly aren’t anything new. Even so, there’s no denying their rise in popularity in recent months, where they’ve popped up seemingly everywhere in various forms — kitten heels, flats, and wedges. Elegant and sleek, slingbacks can easily be dressed up or down, making them a pretty reliable footwear option for day-to-night wear.
Nine West Kately 9×9 Slingback Pumps, $, available at Nine West
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