Fashion accessory
Item used to contribute to the wearer's outfit
In fashion, an accessory is an item used to contribute, in a secondary manner, to an individual's outfit. Accessories are often chosen to complete an outfit and complement the wearer's look.[1] They have the capacity to further express an individual's identity and personality. Accessories come in different shapes, sizes, hues, etc. The term came into use in the 20th century.
Types [ edit ]
Watches are one type of fashion accessory.
Fashion accessories can be loosely categorized into two general areas: those that are carried and those that are worn. Traditionally carried accessories include purses and handbags, hand fans, parasols and umbrellas, wallets, canes, and ceremonial swords. Accessories that are worn may include jackets, boots and shoes, cravats, ties, hats, bonnets, belts and suspenders, gloves, muffs, necklaces, bracelets, watches,[a] eyewear, sashes, shawls, scarves, lanyards, socks, pins, piercings, rings, and stockings.[1]
The type of accessory that an individual chooses to wear or carry to complement their outfit can be determined by several factors, including the specific context of where the individual is going. For example, if an individual is going to work their choice of accessory would differ from someone who is going out to drinks or dinner; thus depending on work or play different accessories would be chosen. Similarly, an individual's economical status, religious and cultural background would also be a contributing factor.[3]
History [ edit ]
Advertisement for millinery , embroideries, and fancy goods from the Macon City Directory, 1860
In Victorian fashion accessories such as fans, parasols and gloves held significance for how women experienced gender, race, and class. In this era, there was a trend for women to adopt, or aspire to, a more leisurely lifestyle. Consequently, gloves were often used by women to cover their hands and mask any signs of labour.[4]
During the early 16th century, in Italy hat badges were worn by civilian men of higher social status as a decorative item, in imitation of the cap badges worn by the invading military. Hat badges were often worn in conjunction with a decorative sword and hilt. Hat badges were fashioned after plaquettes and often depicted a scene with personal relevance to the wearer.[5]
See also [ edit ]
Notes [ edit ]
^ [2] "Many watch manufacturers have capitalized on the acceptance of the watch as a fashion accessory and have entered into licensing agreements with designers."
References [ edit ]
Media related to Clothing accessories at Wikimedia Commons
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Accessories in fashion : An overview of the 30 most important accessories
Updated on June 1, 2022 by Sarina
It is said that people look at your shoes and your watch and then judges you in the first 3 seconds that you meet – if that is how much time you get to make a good impression, there is reason enough to work hard on your accessories for that favorable impression you want. Here is a list of the most important accessories that I can count and that can be counted on to take your fashion style to a different dimension
What are Accessories in fashion?
An accessory can be said to be anything you wear or carry other than your clothes.
Famous fashion designer Oscar De la Renta said: “A woman makes an outfit her own with accessories”. The importance of accessories cannot be better summed up than thus but this is true for men and women. Accessories aim to enhance the effect of clothes you wear- whether they succeed or not depends on your sense of style, the trend in fashion at that particular time and the context.
30 Main accessories in Fashion
1. Anklets
An anklet is an ornament worn around an ankle. Also called ankle chain, ankle bracelet or ankle string. This is not a universally popular accessory but there are many countries in the world where anklets are very popular.
Some people like to wear the anklet loose so that it hangs way below the ankle but some like to wear it tighter around the ankle
2. Belts
A belt is an accessory you wear around your waist; it helps to tighten the waistband of the garment you are wearing along with it and keep it in place, almost holding it up. Here is a post outlining the 20 different types of belts you can have at your disposal if you choose to use this accessory.
3. Bangles and Bracelets
Bangles and Bracelets are fashion accessories worn around the wrist. The difference between a bangle and a bracelet is that a bangle is more rigid than a bracelet and is more circular in shape. You can also count bands around the wrist like friendship bands.
Check out this post on the 33 different types of bracelets. ; How to make bracelets – 5 easy methods
4. Brooches and Pins
Brooches and pins are traditionally used as fastenings, holding folds of fabric together. Brooches are decorative pins. Pins when attached with an ornament on top it becomes a brooch. Brooches can also be worn as a decorative accessory.
A boutonnière is a spray of flowers worn on the lapel of a suit with a pin.
Cufflinks and studs are accessories that are used to secure the cuffs of dress shirts – they fasten the buttonholes on both sides of the shirt cuff. It is worn by both men and women along with dress shirts (with formal wear especially tuxedo shirts).
6. Earrings
An earring is a fashion accessory worn on the earlobe, usually through an ear piercing.
7. Eyeglasses
Also called Spectacles, Eyeglasses are the most common type of eyewear worn to correct eye vision problems – it consists of a frame that holds two pieces of glass or plastic. Other than its functional use, it also serves as an accessory that decorates a face. If you go to a shop you will find thousands of different types of frames for your glasses. As something that covers a major part of your face, attending to the choice of this accessory with a little more deliberation makes style sense.
8. Facemask
Facemask has emerged as a fashion accessory which you cannot avoid. Custom-made high-end leather/fabric masks to those makeshift masks made out of old socks and kerchiefs, there is no one who is wearing them. Learn to make your own facemasks here.
9. Gloves
A glove is an accessory used to cover the hand, fully or partially – it has the purpose of protecting the hand from contamination injury cold, etc. In wedding attire ( and other ceremonies) gloves serve a very decorative purpose.
10. Handbags
If you ask a woman to choose her number one accessory her bag would come on top or at least among the top three. There are so many different types of bags – here is a post counting 30 of the different kinds of bags – and so many variations of these types, it is mind-boggling.
11. Headdresses and headwraps
A headdress is a covering for the head. This is an accessory that may have religious or cultural meanings like a Turban for Indians, Keffiyeh for Arab men, Hijab for Muslim women, Gele for Nigerian women.
12. Hats
A hat is a head covering which is worn for various reasons, including protection against weather conditions, ceremonial reasons such as university graduation, religious reasons, safety, or as a fashion accessory.Wikipedia
Here is a List of Different types of popular hats.
13. Hair accessories
Hair accessories are functional or ornamental objects wrapped, tied, twisted, inserted, or otherwise attached to the hair. These include hairbands, hairbows, tic tac clips, bobby pins, hair barrettes, scrunchies. To know more, checkout this post on 25 different types of hair accessories
14. Helmets
These are gear you wear on your head to protect your brain from injury in case of accidents, especially when riding a bike. Ceremonial or symbolic helmets aside, helmets are worn by almost all bikers, cyclists; it can be counted as an accessory and you get to choose the color and shape of it to complement your attire or your style.
15. Handkerchiefs and pocket squares
A pocket square is a handkerchief kept inside a jacket breast pocket, partially visible to the outside. As there are many ways to decorate handkerchiefs to personalize them, there are many ways to fold and keep the pocket square that changes its looks and makes it a unique accessory.
16. Luggage
Luggage refers to suitcases and trunks and cases used to carry ones belonging when traveling. Luggage can be coordinated and customized to suit one’s personality and preference and can enhance your style. Luggage sets come in a variety of sizes and they can be as good an accessory as any other.
17. Necklaces and Pendants
Necklaces are accessories worn around the neck. Necklaces can be short or long; they can be paired with pendants and lockets. Necklaces could be a simple chain with a lone pendant or studded fully with pearls and beads; minimalist or statement; made of plastic or metal. They are one of the most important accessories that can enhance the face and body of men and women.
18. Neckties
Neckwear refers to clothing worn around the neck such as Neck ties, Cravats & detachable collars. Learn to sew your own neck tie here. And some DIY neckties for women.
19. Perfumes
A fragrant scent that is applied/sprayed on our body – Perfumes are supposed to be the finishing accessory – the thing that compliments everything else as a final touch. Eau de toilette, cologne, body spray are all alternative names given to the perfumes that we use to mask our body odour or make ourselves more attractive scent wise.
20. Phones & peripherals
You may not yet think of your constant companion as an accessory – but it sure is, in my opinion. Buying the latest phone for its looks rather than its features is a thing that we see everywhere. Phones are being launched on the same venue as Chanel’s runway show in Paris. Most of us brag about the latest phone we have and flaunt them with the most enticing covers. Mobile accessories are an industry in themselves.
21. Purses (Wallets)
A purse is a small pouch for carrying small items and is carried by hand. A wallet is a flat purse with separate slots for keeping money and a number of cards. Simple leather wallets are considered to be a very stylish accessory by both men and women.
22. Rings
The plain wedding ring is worn on the left hand on the fourth-finger for women; Men wear the wedding ring on the right hand. On the wedding day, the engagement ring is shifted to the third-finger on the right hand.
23. Sashes
A sash is a piece of fabric stitched as a band or a ribbon worn around the waist or across the shoulders. The sashes are worn across shoulders as part of ceremonies. Sashes worn as a belt around the waist can be an accessory that can transform a dress. Check out the post on making sashes here.
24. Scarves
A scarf is a piece of fabric worn around the neck for warmth, sun protection, cleanliness, fashion, or religious reasons.(Wikipedia) Check out the post on the different dimensions for scarves, stole wrap and shawls
A well-fitting well-made shoe is said to be an investment – your shoe size remains almost constant once you are an adult and classic good looking shoes are always in fashion.
Once worn only to protect feet from cold and injuries, a comfortable and trendy shoe is now regarded as an integral part of a well-dressed look – some might even claim that shoes are the best accessory of all. Running shoes, formal shoes, sneakers, boots – there is any number of shoes a man or woman can have in the wardrobe.
Sandals are footwear for the summers – the open type of shoes come with straps tied around the arch of the feet or around the ankles. Sandals may be embellished with beads, sequins tassels, etc.
Flip flops are open-toed sandals with the straps going between the toe and the rest of the fingers and lend a very casual aura – just ready for a beach look. Mules are another variety of sandals. Learn more about the 35 different types of footwear for women here.
26. Socks and Stockings
These come under hosiery and they are used for many purposes like comfort, attractive appeal, support.
Socks are worn to protect the feet. When worn inside running shoes many will swear that their socks prevented many a blister from forming on the feet – but that does not explain why people choose the prettiest socks in startling and beautiful colors – they peek from inside the shoes and can be counted as an accessory that can enhance your looks. The thigh-high socks are, well, thigh high and keep your leg warm. Pantyhose, tights, stockings all have their own space in the world of accessories.
Related posts : Different types of socks ; Hosiery – stockings, leggings and pantyhose
27. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are protective eyewear meant to shield eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Other than its highly functional use, sunglass (shades) is a great accessory that can change the way you look – here is an article which explains why everyone looks hotter in sunglasses.
28. Umbrella
It is a useful accessory that protects you from rain or sun’s harmful rays. As something that many use on a daily basis, it has its own place as an accessory.
29. Veils
A veil is a piece of cloth used to cover the head or face, either fully or partially.
Other than for religious purposes, the veils are used nowadays as a wedding accessory. It is supposed to shield the bride from evil spirits.
Interesting reading on the history of veils here
Check out this post on the different types of veils according to their height ; And tips on how to sew a wedding veils
30. Watches
The most expensive watch in the world will set you back by about 55 Million dollars – if I am wearing it I will insure my hand and go around with security men. A basic watch costs very little but no one buys them anymore – and for a reason. People spend a lot of money on watches because as an accessory it has no parallel. From the functional use of a time keeping device, watch has ascended far into superstardom among other accessories.
The accessories you choose to wear are as important as your clothes. Which accessory would you count as the most important among these?
Related posts : 40+ different fashion styles ; 12 different dress silhouettes.
45 Types of Fashion Accessories for Women and Men (2022 List) – ThreadCurve
Explore the different types of fashion accessories that will complete and enhance men and women's outfits. You don't have to buy new outfits over and over. With the help of accesories, you can instantly have a new look. Get to know each typesand how to style it.
Fashion accessories are used to essentially contribute in some way to the wearer’s outfit. They are designed to complete the whole look and compliment the outfit. Accessories are further used to express the individual’s personality, identity, and personal taste.
These items come in all sorts of colors, shapes, sizes, hues, designs, and materials, which is why they are perfect for any day and outfit. There is a huge variety of fashion accessories available for women that you can use to pair with your outfit. Here are some of the main ones that you can choose from.
A. Fashion Accessories for Women
Handbags
Handbags are also called purses in American English. It is a medium-to-large bag that is often used to carry personal items. Originally, a purse was used to refer to small bags that held money but handbags are bigger and can hold all sorts of things. In the early 1900s , the term handbag referred to men’s hand luggage. However, that’s a thing of the past before women’s bags enjoyed the spotlight. Today, there are different styles of handbags that have evolved over time. Some examples may include baguette, clutch, hobo, satchels, shoulder, backpacks, and more.
Glasses
Glasses are also called spectacles and are basically frames that have a hard, plastic, or glass lens in the middle. This frame holds the lens in front of the eyes while a bridge goes over the ears. Glasses are mostly used for vision correction but can also be used as a fashion accessory.
Sunglasses also allow better vision during daylight and can protect eyes against the damage caused by the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. You can choose different designs of glasses including aviator, bug-eyed, goggles, cat-eye, horn-rimmed, lens-less, rim-less, sunglasses, and more. They are also available in all sorts of shapes, ranging from square, round, ovals, and rectangles to star and heart shapes!
Wallets
Wallets are flat, small cases that are often used to carry smaller personal items. This can include credit cards, cash, photographs, identification documents, business cards, or any other types of cards. Wallets are pocket-sized and are typically made of leather since it is a durable material.
Women’s wallets can be a bit bigger though since they are prone to carry them inside handbags, instead of their jeans pockets. The tradition emerged because women only used to wear dresses that had no pockets, to begin with. However, today, while most wallets for women are larger in size, it is possible to find small, pocket-sized wallets as well.
Jackets
Shoes
Jackets are garments for the upper body that usually have a mid-stomach length. They usually have sleeves and may be fastened in the front or side. They are tighter-fitting and less insulating than coats but can be quite fashionable. Many high-quality jackets are made of leather since it can protect against cold and is a durable material. They come in many styles that you can choose from like blazers, bomber, bolero, fleece, denim, reversible, and more.
Shoes are footwear that provides comfort and protects the feet. They are also used as a fashion accessory or item of decoration. The design for shoes has changed a lot from culture to culture and through time. There are many different design elements that contribute to shoes such as heel or flats. The modern variety of shoes is found with varying cost, design complexity, and style. You can choose from athletic, casual, dress, heels, pumps, ballet flats, and many others.
Boots
Boots are also footwear but they aren’t considered as a specific type of shoe. Boots usually cover the entire foot and ankle while some go even higher to the calf. Others extend as far as the knee or hip. Most boots are designed with a heel that separates at the sole of the boot. Traditionally, boots were made of leather or rubber. However, now, they come in all sorts of materials. They have high functionality since they protect the feet from mud, cold and more, as well as provide ankle support.
Hats
Hats are head coverings that are often worn for protection against weather, ceremonies like graduations, religious reasons, safety, and as a fashion accessory. Previously, hats were also an indicator of social statuses, like in the military. There are many different styles of hats that are available including baseball caps, beanies, berets, fedora, panama, and many more.
Belts
Belts are flexible straps or bands that are usually made with heavy cloth or leather. They are primarily worn around the waist to prevent the pants from falling down. They have a similar function to garters or suspenders. Most trousers are designed with belt loops around the waist that the belt has to go through. You can also attach different objects to the belt-like purses, phone holder, key chains, camera lens, and others.
Gloves
Gloves are a garment designed to cover the hands. However, fingerless gloves have also been invented. Gloves usually have separate openings or sheaths for the thumb and each finger. Â They are designed to protect hands from extreme temperatures, friction, disease, cuts, or chemicals. Gloves can be made from all sorts of materials including felted or knitted wool, leather, cloth, metal, latex, silk, rubber, and more.
Gloves that cover the entire hand but don’t have different sheaths for fingers are called mittens. Mittens are warmer than gloves even if they are made with the same material. This is because fingers maintain warmth more efficiently when they are in contact with each other. There are three main types of mittens: idiot, gunner’s, and scratch.
Necklaces
Necklaces are a fashion accessory that is worn around the neck. They were one of the first types of adornments worn by humans. They can be used as symbols of status and wealth or for religious, funerary, ceremonial purposes. The main element of the necklace is the cord, the chain, or band that wraps or dangles loosely around the neck. This can be made from metals like gold, silver, copper, and platinum or plastic, cloth, and other materials.
Necklaces also have other attachments that are inserted or suspended from the band. This can include lockets, pendants, amulets, crosses, and other precious gems like emeralds, sapphires, rubies, pearls, and diamonds. Some types of necklaces that you can choose from include chokers, matinee, opera, rope, or lariat.
Bracelets
A bracelet is a piece of jewelry that is worn around the wrist. They are mostly ornamental but can serve different uses as well. Identity or medical information is often marked on bracelets including allergy tags or patient identification. Bracelets can also cater to religious and culture proposes or even to certain phenomena like breast cancer awareness. They can be made from different materials including cloth, plastic, bead, metal, leather, or any other materials.
Watches
Watches are timepieces that can be carried or worn. Wristwatches are often made with a band, strap, or other types of bracelets so that they can be worn around the wrist. Pocket watches, on the other hand, are carried in the pocket but are rarely worn by people anymore.
Throughout history, we have used mechanical drives that are powered by oscillating balance wheels, clockworks, or winding mechanisms. In the 1960s, a better version called the electronic quartz watch was invented, which subsequently took over the market.
Modern watches are designed with multiple functions including the calendar, torches lights, alarms, calculators, Bluetooth, heart monitoring, radio, and more. Smartwatches can even take calls, download apps, connect to the Wi-Fi, and do a lot more!
Most watches are quite inexpensive but many well-known brands design more expensive collectible watches that are valued for their craftsmanship, designs, and aesthetics. The most expensive watch ever was sold for $24 million in 2014 .
Sashes
Sashes are large, colorful bands of material or ribbons that are worn around the body. They can drape from one shoulder to the opposite hip or just wrap around the waist. Sashes on the waist can be worn for casual attire but sashes which go from shoulder to hip are usually reserved for ceremonies.
Shawls
Shawls are simple items of clothing that are draped loosely over the shoulder and upper body. It can also be worn over the head. The name shawl comes from a mixture of Persian and Urdu language written as “شال shāl”. It is usually a square or rectangular cloth that comes in all sorts of fabrics and designs. Often, shawls are hand-stitched and have intricate designs on them but can also be large patterns and images.
The most famous shawls in the world are made in Kashmir where Ladakhi Kashmiri goats’ wool was used to design the first pashmina shawl . The Kanikar Kashmiri shawls have really intricate designs that resemble scenes of nature. Scenes like chenar leaves, cherry blossoms, apple trees, roses, almonds, pears, tulips, and nightingales are often stitched in dark red, gold, yellow, brown, and maroon. Jamivar Kashmiri shawls are made with pure wool or, sometimes, with a little added cotton.
scarves
Scarves are a type of fabric that is worn around the neck. This can be for sun protection, warmth, fashion, religion, or cleanliness. They are made from all sorts of fabrics including cotton, linen, and wool.
Scarves have been worn throughout history since ancient times. In Ancient Rome, a garment called the sudarium or focale was used to keep clean rather than warm. They were originally worn by men but became a really popular fashion accessory for men and women in the 19 th century .
Socks
Socks are an item of clothing that is worn on the feet. It often covers the ankle and can even go up to the calf. Socks are worn with some type of shoe or boot over them. Initially, they were made using matted animal hair. However, during the 16th century, machine-knit socks started to become popular.
One of the main purposes of socks is to absorb perspiration since feet are the heaviest producers of sweat in the human body. Socks are designed to absorb this perspiration and let it evaporate into the air. In colder climates, socks are also used to insulate the foot and protect against frostbite.
They come in a myriad of patterns and colors which is why they have recently become highly popular as fashion items. There are many types of socks that you can use to complete your outfit including tights, athletic dress or trouser, leg warmers, liner, and slipper socks.
Lapel Pins
Lapel pins are also called enamel pins in a lot of places. They are small pins that are made to be pinned on different clothing like jackets, bags, scarves, or other materials. They are usually ornamental but can also be designed to indicate the user’s affiliation with a cause or organization. Lapel pins are often used in many organizations to identify belonging and achievements like lapel pins in the military.
In recent years, pin trading and collecting have also emerged as a popular hobby. Demands have increased for fandom-related pins like Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, the Marvel Universe, Stars Wars, Disney, and many others.
Earrings
Earrings are jewelry that is worn on a piercing on any part of the external ear. Earrings are worn by everyone but are most common for women who have been using it for centuries now. Different locations to wear the earring include the earlobe, tragus, helix, rook, daith, conch, and others. Ear piercings usually refer to the earlobe while piercings on the upper ear are called cartilage piercings.
Earrings can be made from a number of materials including beads, wood, bone, precious stone, plastics, metal, and glass. They also have many different styles including studs, loops, hoops, barbells, and more.
Nose Rings
Nose piercings have a really long history. In 1500 BCE, Lakshmi wore nose rings according to the Hindu book called Vedas. The modern practice of nose rings in India has been estimated to come from the Middle Eastern nomadic tribes that traveled the trade routes in the 16 th century . Customs in Indian Hindu culture include that women of childbearing age wear a nose stud in their left nostril.
Nose rings and pins can be made from substances like metal, plastic, and even glass. They come in unique designs and colors. Some are even studded with precious stones like diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds, etc.
Rings
Rings are round bands that are worn as ornamental jewelry and are made out of metal, wood, stone, glass, bone, plastic, gemstones, or any hard material. Usually, when people say “ring” they mean finger rings but if they are worn in other places then the body part is usually specified. Rings are designed to fit snugly on the finger. They may gemstones set inside the band including emeralds, sapphires, rubies, diamonds, or other stones and glass.
Rings are mainly worn as ornaments or as displays of wealth. They also play symbolic roles in relation to memberships to organizations, marriage, authority, ancestry, achievements, and other such phenomena. Rings can also be turned into an insignia that is compatible with wax seals or even have a small compartment to conceal things. In fiction, fable, and myths, rings are often endowed with supernatural, magical, or spiritual significance.
Bandana
Bandanas are a kind of large colorful kerchief that is worn on the head or neck. They originate from the Indian subcontinent and come in printed paisley patterns. Many hold back hair and are used as fashion accessories.
They are brightly colored kerchiefs that are made of cotton and silk. The silk styles are often made of fine quality yarns and have been really popular. In Glasgow, bandanas were made from cotton yarns and are now made with lots of different quality grades.
Head Bands
Headbands are a clothing fashion accessory that is worn in the hair or around the forehead. Their main function is to hold the hair away from the eyes or face. Headbands are usually horseshoe-shaped pieces of flexible metal or plastic. It can also be a loop of elastic material that goes all the way around the hair. Headbands come in all sorts of sizes, shapes, designs, and colors. Sometimes they also have some attachments like bows or sequins.
Parasol/Umbrella
Parasols are commonly known as umbrellas. It is a folding canopy supported by metal or wooden ribs. The canopy and supportive ribs are mounted on plastic, metal, or wooden pole. The main function is to provide a person with protection from sunlight or rain but it is also used for ornamental purposes to complete outfits.
Parasols are more decorative since they aren’t waterproof. On the other hand, umbrellas are made with flexible plastic or fabric.
Parasols can also be really huge like golf umbrellas. They are either operated manually or have a spring system that opens the umbrella when the button is pressed. Many hand-held umbrellas are designed with a handle of some kind, usually made of plastic, wood, or cane-line crook handle. They come in all sorts of quality and price points – it depends on the material, designer, and craftsmanship. The most expensive umbrella is for $50,000 and is made of crocodile skin.
Hand Fans
A handheld fan is a flat, broad surface that can be waved back and forth to create airflow. Generally, handheld fans are made of thin material like feathers and paper and are shaped like a semi-circle. The material is mounted on slats that revolve around a pivot, which allows the fan to close when it was not in use. Hand fans are designed to increase evaporation on human skin for a cool effect. In fact, they are the most convenient item to carry around to stay cool.
Rigid hand screen fans were designed as decorative objects among the elites in history. They were mostly used by women to shield their face against the glare of a fire or the sun. They became popular as fashion accessories when Portuguese traders bought them from Japan and China in the 16th century. They were particularly popular in Spain where flamenco dancers were known to use the fan. Even modern European brands have designed modern versions so that they can work with modern fashion trends.
Muffs
Muffs are a fashion accessory that is often used for outdoor events. They are cylinders of fabric and fur which is open at both ends. The main purpose is to keep hands warm. However, over time, muffs evolved as a fashion accessory.
They were introduced as part of women’s fashion in the 16th century and were worn by all genders during the 17th and 18th centuries. In the 20th century, muffs have fallen a bit out of fashion and are only used by women in England.
B. Fashion Accessories for Men
Gone are the days when the words “fashion accessories” were only used to describe what women wore. These days, some of the men’s staple apparel have transcended into fashion items.
It is no secret that men’s fashion accessories are being grabbed off the shelves and their sales figures are being doubled and tripled. Although accessories like wristwatches, tie pins, belts, and suspenders were always being worn, they were often largely ignored in favor of front-running apparel like shirts, trousers, jackets, and jeans. These days, though, men’s fashion accessories are hogging the spotlight.
Below are some of the most trending accessories among men these days.
Wrist Watches
Although women wear their fair share of wristwatches, these accessories were more dominated by male figures rather than the female populace. If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then it is possible that wristwatches are a man’s best friend.
Even after the advent of cell phones, which makes the task of checking the time easier, sophisticated and fashionable men always buy and wear the best types of wristwatches. Watches are one of the most elegant accessories as they have the ability to steal the show. Not only can you tell the time with a turn of your wrist, but wristwatches these days come with several added features and visual elements that were absent a few decades ago.
Automatic Wrist Watches
Automatic wristwatches do not require a battery to operate; instead, they run on the motion of the wearer’s wrist, which provides it energy to work, making the old-fashioned winding of manual watches unnecessary.
Several high-end brands make designer wristwatches that can sell for thousands of dollars.
One of the best types of automatic wristwatch makers is Tissot. It’s Le Locle Powermatic 80 watch has a beautiful, classic style that complements its sophisticated strength. The stainless steel casing cradles a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal window and it can be worn with a seven-inch stainless steel bracelet.
Chronographs
Do you know that the first chronograph was invented by King Louis XVIII of France, who was an avid horseracing fan and wanted to time each race accurately? The chronograph is the most popular, stylish, and recognizable wristwatch. Aside from telling the time very accurately, chronographs can also be used to measure the time of a wide variety of events, like car racing, cycling, or swimming.
A wristwatch with a chronograph features an independent second hand placed in the center that can be started, paused, and returned to zero by a dial or a pusher on the side. Chronographs range from simple stopwatches and timers to complicated machines with multiple dials that can measure down to a tenth of a second!
Digital Wrist Watches
A digital wristwatch shows the time as a digital number on a screen instead of the clock hands pointing towards the numbers. These digits are shown as a 7-segment display. These watch work with batteries.
The first digital mechanical wristwatch was made in the 1920s. Back then, digital LED watches were very expensive, so much so that a common customer could not afford them until 1975 when they were mass-produced inside plastic casings. They were then retailed from $10 to $20. These LED watches required the user to press a button to display the time. That was because the LED used too much power to operate continuously. However, these watched were replaced by LCD displays which were always open and used less power.
Later versions of the LCD watch incorporated many features like a built-in TV screen, and a thermometer, and in the case of Casio, a feature that can translate Japanese words into English.
Fitness Tracker
Although these smartwatches are used to track your health, they quickly became a fashion accessory for men as well. Because let’s face it, nothing is more attractive than a person who takes good care of his health.
Fitness trackers come with several features that monitor your daily activity, how many steps you have taken, how long you remained sedentary, the rate of your heartbeat, and how many calories you consumed in a day. They also help to keep track of your sleep and the quality of your sleep. It even tells the time!
Eyewear
Gone are the days when men used to wear bug-eyed goggles that gave them a nerdy look. These days, eyewear has the potential to add to your entire outfit. If you don’t need prescription glasses, stick to sunglasses, as fake eyeglasses can make you look very strange. When you are buying eyewear, make sure you select a style that suits your face shape.
Men with oval faces can pretty much wear whatever types of glasses they like, but people with rounded or square faces look better with narrow or rectangular frames. As a rule, rectangular frames look good on virtually all face types.
As for sunglasses, they are an eye-saving joy in the summers. These types of eyewear do not just look super cool, but they also protect your eyes from the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays. Not everyone loves to wear sunglasses, but that’s because they haven’t found the perfect pair.
Sunglasses also come in various forms, including the most popular Aviator style, as well as wayfarers, rimless, mirrored, wrap-around, and with notched bridges.
Classic Sunglasses
The great thing about classic sunglasses is that they can be found in a variety of price ranges. One of the best and most affordable styles of sunglasses is the Wayfarer look, which features a distinct trapezoidal frame and sturdy arms, which give the sunglasses a distinctly masculine look. Besides that, the club master sunglasses, which were seen during the Counter-Culture Movement of the 1960s, are also one of the most popular choices.
Aviator Sunglasses
Popularized by the movie “Top Gun”, aviator sunglasses are characterized by dark, reflective lenses, which are two or three times the size of your eyeballs. They have very thin metal frames with a double or triple bridge. The lenses are slightly convex and are designed to prevent as much light as possible from entering the eye.
Wrap-around Sunglasses
These sunglasses consist of semi-circular frames that curve around the head and provides the viewer with a panoramic view from behind the lenses. These sunglasses are often worn by athletes as the wider peripheral vision gives them an optimal vision for improved performance. These sunglasses look very cool on people with oval, diamond, and heart-shaped faces.
Ties
A lot of people associate ties with formal events and office days. These days, thanks to the number of different styles and forms, ties can be worn in a casual setting or simply as a fashion statement. You can keep your silk and satin ties for business occasions. For a more everyday look, go for patterns and rougher fabric.
Some great choices are the wool knit ties, which can be great for when you want to dress up, but still, have fun wearing them. Skinny neckties are also a great alternative to the broader style.
Tie Pins
Obviously, if you are wearing a tie, you might need to secure it with a tie pin so that it doesn’t go flapping away at the most inopportune moments and make you look sloppy. Nowadays, most tie pins are mostly worn with fashion in mind, but their functionality can also not be denied.
If you are going to a formal function, keep the design sleek, elegant, and conservative, and opt for silver or gold colors. For a casual outing, you can get tie pins in a variety of styles and colors that allow you to have some fun and show off your personality.
Suspenders
Suspenders or braces are straps usually made from leather or other fabric to hold up the trousers. These straps are usually elasticized with metal attachments at the end and they form a cross or a Y shape at the back.
During the mid-19th century, suspenders were worn by all men as the high cut of the trousers made it difficult to wear a belt. They largely became unpopular during the 1930s; however, these days, they are back with a bang, and as a fashion accessory.
A pair of high-quality suspenders can last you a whole lifetime. They also give you that added oomph that makes you stand out from the rest.
Belts
An accessory as simple as a belt can miraculously help tie in your outfit together. Even though belts are considered old-school by some, they can exude magnetism, style, and charisma, if donned right.
Like ties, belts can be worn for both formal and informal events. If you are going to a formal occasion, make sure your belt matches your shoes. If you are going to a casual setting, you can wear mismatched pieces of clothing.
Wide belts look more casual than their slim counterparts, so you can wear these to casual events. In fact, super-wide belts are all the rage in the hip hop culture as they prevent he low-riding jeans from falling down and also serve as a fashion statement.
Cufflinks
Cufflinks are the perfect accessory for French cuffs. French cuff shirts are typically very formal and are usually worn during business or formal events. Therefore, it is important that you pair your shirt with a pair of stylish and elegant cufflinks. Make sure you do not opt for cheap-looking designs as that can ruin your entire look.
A well-made, understated pair of silver cufflinks is a great accessory as this color is perfect for shirts in any color. In fact, silver cufflinks don’t distract the eye from your sharp cuff line or a designer watch like some bejeweled cufflinks can.
Wallets
Wallets are certainly one of the most important accessories for holding cash. With the advent of plastic money, when paying for your grocery or movie ticket is as easy as a swipe of a credit card, it says something that wallets still remain in style. Although wallets were created primarily for the purpose of storing your cash in a crease-free way, they are now very much a fashion accessory.
Wallets come in all shapes, sizes, and fabric and are appropriate for all occasions. Chunky and colorful wallets are good for the casual setting; however, when you are in a formal or conservative setting, nothing beats a black or brown wallet made from aged leather.
In fact, there are men who engrave their leather wallets with their initials, a move that says they intend to keep these classy accessories for life, even if the money inside doesn’t last them a week.
Pocket Squares
Pocket square, the wonderful gentlemanly accessory, has lifted millions of suits since they were first popularized in the 1920s. From celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Daniel Craig, Robert Downey Junior, and Justin Timberlake, pocket squares are the perfect accessory for people of all ages.
Historically, carrying a pocket square had a deeper, more romantic meaning. These squares were carried by gentlemen for ladies; if these ladies became sad, the gentlemen offered them their pocket squares to dry their tears.
Although pocket squares are no more used, for this reason, a crisp white kerchief can present an air of quiet confidence in a man.
Scarves
Source: Burberry
In many ways, scarves are one of the best accessories, especially when the cold hits. During the winter season, scarves are used to fend off the icy biting winds. However, scarves with a thinner cloth can be worn in the warmer season as well, to lend a pop of color and character to your outfit.
Although the scarves were once considered women’s accessories, men have taken over this apparel – and make it look good too. Two of the patterns and fabrics that best fits a man’s wardrobe are the tartan and cashmere scarf. These scarves can come in classic black and white combination or a number of different hues that provide contrast and complement to a man’s outfit, as a whole.
One big evidence about men’s dominance over scarves is from the Burberry brand. The designer brand used to sell a camel-based Burberry check scarf, but now it is available in 20 different hues for men.
Hats
Hats can be difficult to wear as not many men know how to wear them properly. However, if you are willing to get out of your comfort zone, you may be completely surprised by the results.
Classic hats like the trilby and fedora are super smart and should not be paired with casual clothing as it can look very awkward. For a very casual occasion, you can wear bucket hats. Hats that have wide brims, like the panama, should be reserved for when you are wearing a shirt with a collar. Straw hats are wonderful and very light-weight and perfect for a day on the beach or out in the bright sun.
If you decide to wear a hat, you must know that they are more of a statement piece rather than an understated accessory. They can give your outfit a whole dose of personality or completely ruin your entire look if they are not well-suited to you. However, don’t be afraid to try on new styles to see what works best for you.
Leather Gloves
Generally speaking, the best gloves that suit men are made from wool or leather. Wool gloves should be reserved for casual outings or to protect your hands from the cold. However, it is the leather gloves that take center stage when it comes to fashion statements.
The soft, supple material of leather is perfect for encasing your hand. Not only they provide improved dexterity and comfort, but they also offer a much more elegant, sleeker option when you are wearing formal wear.
Leather gloves can be worn at both casual events like horse riding, or formal events like attending a gentleman’s party. The most popular color choices are black, white, and brown.
Baseball Cap
Nothing symbolizes “man at leisure” than the baseball cap. Baseball caps are a staple accessory of athletes and sports aficionados and have successfully invaded the wardrobes of even the most conservative of men.
These are one of the most versatile types of headwear and come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles. You can invest in sun-faded bright colors or go for muted, neutral tones that look just as good. Many baseball caps come with some judicious use of embroidery and artfully placed slogans.
Beanie
Beanies are soft, warm, and comfortable and there is no reason why every man should not own one. The best thing about this headwear is that you do not have to spend a ton of cash to buy one; they are very inexpensive and come in a huge variety of colors and patterns. Usually, they are made of wool since their function is to keep your head warm in the winter.
The Weekender
These days it has become very stylish for men to carry messenger bags or “weekenders”. Not only is this large bag very useful and can hold your camera, cell phone, and various articles of clothing, but it also enhances the appearance of the person holding it.
This kind of accessory is best suited for young college-aged men. The best fabric to go for is leather, even though the messenger bag comes in a variety of fabrics. Most men prefer the color to be simple brown or black, and sometimes a mild olive shade. These bags are usually monochromatic and come with minimal designs and embroidery as that can make men feel awkward. Hence, these bags are great for matching with the color of your jeans or jacket.
Rings
Although most men generally prefer to not wear jewelry, rings are one type of accessory that works just as well for men and women. This is because this small jewelry is fairly understated. Rings with large jewels and baubles may look good on women but on men, they tend to look gaudy and fake. Therefore, plain, simple gold and silver bands are usually the best
Not all men are confident wearing rings as many people believe they should only wear a wedding band. However, in recent times, things have fortunately been looking up for men who prefer to wear rings. A lot of celebs have also started wearing rings and pretty soon, rings are bound to become a very common sight on men.
Necklaces
Necklaces often seem to go out of style and are not as common as rings on men. Usually, men prefer to wear understated, subtle necklaces, with gold or silver chains. They often do not have a pendant or have a small modest pendant, often in the shape of a cross, for Christian men.
However, in the hip hop and rock metal culture, very long and thick chains around the neck are very much in style among men.
Men are also sometimes given sentimental necklaces from their loved ones as gifts for their birthdays or anniversaries.
Bracelets
Bracelets are one type of jewelry that seems to have exploded in the men’s fashion circles. The great thing about bracelets is that they come in a wide variety of fabrics and styles and are great for both very casual and very formal events.
Leather cord bracelets are an extremely common style these days which look good on all men. Another popular type of bracelet is beaded bracelets, or Mala bracelets, though they can be a bit controversial as they are worn by Buddhists.
For a conservative setting, solid platinum or silver can enhance your personality as well as complement your designer wristwatch.
A Classy Pen
When we day a classy pen, we don’t mean a ballpoint but rather an elegant fountain pen, either a vintage variety or something that has been bought from the likes of Montblanc. This kind of pen is only used on a very special occasion like signing the papers after acquiring a business. They also look very regal and sophisticated attached to your pocket.
Even though they can be a bit expensive, these beautifully crafted calligraphy instruments can give you an air of confidence and magnetism. You don’t have to break your bank to get one either (no, you don’t have to buy the Montblanc one, if you don’t want to).
Cologne
Although it is not exactly an accessory, nothing is more repulsive than a man who smells — in a bad way, that is. Every man should consider having a signature cologne which can turn heads. When it comes to colognes, it is best to wear one that is simple, unique and memorable.
Some of the best scents for men are sold by Creed, Hugo Boss, Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, and Comme Des Garcons. Even though a bottle of one of their colognes may cost a lot, a little goes a long way and they can last you for a very long time.
Gym Bag
Almost all men own a gym bag. This duffel-style bag is great for taking to sports matches or beach picnics and is perfect for carrying your clothes, gadgets, and even food. If you have a gym bag that is sweat-stained and ripping at the seams, it is time to buy a new one as gym bags are one of the latest fashion accessories. Get a gym bag that is sweat and odor proof and comes with additional compartments in which you can stow away your shoes.
Although most men are onboard for many of these accessories, there are some accessories, like jewelry, that men are still not very comfortable wearing around others. If that’s the case with you, now is a great time to start as these accessories are building steam quickly. Try the styles that suit you the best from our list and become a trendsetter among your friends.
Fashion has evolved a lot through the ages but many accessories have remained the same. Their designs, colors, patterns, or materials may have changed but the essence of their marksmanship has stayed the same. They have been part of human clothing and experience for thousands of years and hold a special significance.
Fashion accessories in the modern world have changed a lot but their target is the same. They are still designed to complete the outfit according to your personal tastes and will continue to do so for the centuries to come!
