Shelly-Ann Thompson, Freelance Writer
LEFT: Without accessories an outfit can be drab and lifeless. RIGHT: Accessorising for a casual occasion should not be overdone. The pants and top were embellished with brass earrings, brass cuff bracelets with semi-precious stones, brass chain belt with coins and garnets and a Vermeille necklace with wooden and glass beads. A black and natural tones straw tote bag with beads as well as Hazaianas beaded sandals were also added. All items are available at Kerry manwomanhome, 18 South Avenue, Kingston.
NO OUTFIT looks complete without a complementary accessory. The addition of earrings, a necklace, a few bracelets, that great purse or a colourful scarf, can do fashionable wonders for an ensemble.
For most evening gowns, the popular accessory is a shawl or jewellery that glitters, but casual outfits are jazzed up with chunky neck, wrist, and ear jewellery.
Some persons, however, have an eye for accessorising. It's like tasting cake batter and knowing that some vital ingredient is missing and then knowing the perfect "spice" to provide the oomph-factor.
Have fun, but maintain a balance. Too many beaded necklaces can crowd an evening dress making it fussy instead of classy. And a jewelled neckline needs no further embellishment. When dressing, find your central focus. It can be your hair, bust or waist - accessorise that area. The fashion tip is not to accessorise more than one area of an outfit.
Pat Wright, Montego Bay-based stylist noted that lots of layers and chunky jewellery are definitely hot for 2006 along with big, bold strands of beads.
"When wearing silver, gold or beaded necklaces they should be layered. Gone are the days when you wear one chain, now it's three at a time. However they should not be of the same length," Mrs. Wright told Flair.
The hottest fashion accessories for this year are: bursting-with-confident colours, fabulous floral prints, eccentric beads and lace galore. Stock your wardrobe, and allow your outfits to stand out.
