5 mistakes when buying fashion accessories

Accessorising is one of the most crucial parts of styling. Like magic, the right accessory can change your wardrobe in an instant. However, it can also ruin your look.

In this article, we highlight some of the red flags to consider before you make your next purchase. Take a read before you whip out your credit card:

Mistake #1: Riding the trends but forgetting your personal style

It’s all in the media: your favourite star carries a stunning new pair of earrings. Whenever a new jewellery trend comes up, you become more than excited to make your next acquisition. That inner chic dares you to be adventurous; everybody’s wearing it, so why can’t you?

The question really isn’t about why the item is hot; it’s about if this particular fashion piece stays true to your character and style. Will you be sporting the floral headdress with ease? How about wearing jewellery with skulls?

While it might seem great to be part of the ‘in’ crowd, it’s always more satisfying to be authentic and true to yourself. As fashion inspiration Coco Chanel said, “Fashion fades, style is eternal.” Hence, when buying your fashion accessories, we recommend you do it while considering your own style.

Mistake #2: Paying too much

There’s that new bag; a gorgeous leather piece in stylish black with gold trimmings and hardware. You’re strongly tempted to purchase it—it’ll look great with your office day wear as well as late night dates. The only thing that’s keeping you from splashing the cash? It’s the price but the dilemma is quite simply you’re in love with the design or brand!

It is never wrong to splurge on your wants every once in a while. However, think carefully about how it will fit with your current – and future – wardrobe. How are you likely to feel about the purchase 12-months down the line? Is this an impulsive purchase or more of a strategic buy?

The truth is, if you take the time to research, you may find similar handbags on the market. The wonders of the web means it’s really convenient to search, compare and look at the options out there rather than making an impulsive buy on the spur of the moment.

If you’re not after the brand name, is it really worth paying over the odds for a design when you may find something similar in other stores? Give yourself time and do some window shopping. There’s a big chance you might find what you’re looking for – without a hefty price tag.

Mistake #3: Paying too little

It’s the complete opposite of the scenario above. But you’ve probably been there: the ‘practical you’ has taken over and you want to purchase a fashion accessory that looks great but costs a fraction of the price. Being prudent is a good trait (we applaud it) – but not every time.

Here’s a good example: you spot a silver-coloured necklace which sort of resembles the one that presenter wore on TV. This version, however, is cheap and tacky, but for the love of fashion, you bought it for £9.99. In three days, the jewellery gave out; the metal tarnished and the pendant came loose. Think of the wasted time, effort as well as the money.

When shopping for fashion accessories, quality is important. This is especially true for items such as sunglasses and jewellery. By doing your research you can often get high quality products for reasonable prices – it’s about balance.

This is much easier with most retailers now online. Bookmark stores that sell quality leather goods, jewellery – and of course, voucher code and sales sites where you can be notified when your favourite retailers have special deals and promotions!

Mistake #4: Forgetting what’s in your closet

You have new, neon-orange sunnies with studs and you’re all over it like a piece of candy. It looks fun, fresh and it’s perfect for the summer season. Of course, you’re excited to pair it with your edgy, casual attire. However, the excitement blows over when you open your closet and realise that your tops are mostly office worthy and your set of bottoms are pencil skirts and serious denims.

Unless you’re willing to have a fashion closet makeover, it’s important to consider the items you already have in your wardrobe before purchasing fashion accessories. These small items are meant to accompany your style, not be the main attraction.

The keyword here is wearability – the number of times you can use this particular fashion accessory with your different outfits. Colour is another factor. If you have a bright, rainbow-hued set of clothes, then purchasing items in vibrant tones won’t be a problem. However, if the items in your wardrobe are mostly filled with blues and reds or greens, you might want to buy a fashion accessory that will complement those colours.

Mistake #5: You don’t store expensive accessories carefully

Fashion accessories such as precious metal jewellery with sparkling gems are more than decorations; they’re investments. The same is true for high-end, luxury items such as bags and leather accessories. Taking good care of them will help to avoid scratches and other damage.

For instance, storing in a box out of direct sunlight is a must for most items to help avoid discolouration and fading. Check the retailer’s site for advice on how to care for them. Such details really are important and will also ensure that you’re more likely to enjoy your accessories for years to come.

Final words…

Buying fashion accessories can be an enjoyable experience when you see how perfectly they complement your outfit. To help you make your decision when choosing fashion accessories, ask yourself these questions: