Accessorize the neck

by Rachel Pugh
Weekender General Manager
Times Leader Director of Community Relations

Fall fashion just may be the best season for fashion in the calendar year. Of course this is be sheer opinion only, but when keeping accessories in mind, this season simply allows you to be more creative when choosing the ideal accessory.

Think about it. The summer is too hot to be messing around with scarves, hats (excluding beach hats), gloves, etc. The spring is too wet and chilly, and shoes that can handle the rain and rain jackets are more fitting for this time of year. The winter is too cold, and you have to bundle up, covering most of your outfit. And chances are, when it’s really cold outside, you don’t spend a whole lot of time on your outfit as your main objective is to simply stay warm. For these reasons, the fall comes in first place for fashion. It allows you to play with blazers, hats, scarves, shawls, all types of shoes, etc. Chilly enough to wrap up your neck with your new pashmina, but warm enough that you don’t have to hide yourself with a down-filled puff jacket. Want to wear stylish gloves rather than quilted mittens? That’s fine for this season. Dying to try on your knitted Emma Cook hat complete with fabric flower? Style your hair around this bad boy this time of year. And can’t wait to slip into those knee-high boots with the 4-inch heel? No slipping on ice in these stiletto boots this early in the season. Get out all your favorite accessories for this short season allows you to have some fun and mix and match with all your closet’s favorites.

One personal favorite accessory is the scarf, or any version of it. Sure, the basic wool scarf with the fringes or tassels still makes its rounds, but scarves have taken on a whole new attitude, and they’re just dying to embrace your neck and shoulders. There is the cotton-fringed scarf, perfect for draping around your neck and over your chest. This style can literally change any outfit and instantly project a sporty look. There’s also the long-hanging scarf which gives a dramatic style to an otherwise basic outfit. Both choices must be worn with basic tops, or at least not with tops with a lot of frill, ruffles or designs.

Although the above choices are also smart picks, start thinking outside the box and find new and creative ways to keep the neck and shoulders warm and in style. Check out Free People’s options for shrugs, scarves and shawls. Many of their selections are versatile meaning it may start as a shrug put convert into a unique scarf or wrap. These items gives a completely new look, making it appear as though you are wearing a totally different outfit. Versatility is a major luxury with accessories, and Free People brings luxurious choices with just a click of the computer. Check it out at freepeople.com.

Shop at antique stores, browse through Urban Outfitters, Free People or even Macy’s at your local mall. Rummage through the scarves and wraps and find creative ways to turn them into new styles. Drape them, tie them, wrap them in unusual ways. You’ll have fun making variations and you’ll be giving yourself new wardrobe choices in the end.

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