Keep fashion forward and indulge in a chemical free high with this season’s accessories, says fashionista Natasha Faruque
Cheryl Tiegs once said like anyone else, "There are days I feel beautiful and there are days I don’t, and when I don’t I do something about it." Like most women nowadays, she probably rushed out and splurged on accessories to give herself a chemical free high. Accessorizing gives any look (not to mention ego) an instant boost. There is no bemoaning going up a size as in the world of accessories, even high fashion designer ones, one size generally fits all and your feet don’t pile on those tell tale pounds.
Shoe fetishists are squandering money on this season’s mandatory footwear; the ankle boot. Splash out on Christian Louboutin’s round toed suede version with his trademark acidic red sole or perhaps Jimmy Choo’s goldtone studded ones with a four inch heel and a chain detail. Fans of Stella McCartney have their names on the list for her black suede pair with a pointed leather toe and a spindly red heel; these are seriously sexually charged shoes. Those with serious cash to flash will head straight to Manolo Blahnik and purchase a pair of his limited edition re-issues; the OTT ‘Davee’ evening boot in black lace and jet beading.
Those of you who have taken the trend of the big bag to heart and are still clutching those mammoth Spy bags need not fear. In handbags at least, super-sized is still all the rage. Yves Saint Laurent’s ‘Maia’ Buffalo leather bag, Bottega Veneta’s ‘Intreciatto’ shopper, the Mulberry ‘Emmy’, not to mention the Jimmy Choo double ring bucket bag in khaki are all causing a stir. Those wanting something a little more New York style uptown chic may opt for the vintage inspired quilted leather frame Hobo by Marc Jacobs.
Whilst the thought of wide belts may make you shudder, no fashion forward wardrobe would be complete without one. Emulate the catwalks of everyone from Proenza Schouler to Anna Sui and wrap up the look in a cinch with the help of a leather belt by Michael Kors.
The jet set will be splashing out on a black Havana calfskin travel clutch from Smythson of Bond Street. Team it up with the limited edition dusky damson and gold leaf overnight bag by Temperley for Penhaligons to create the perfect first class fashionista look.
Lastly, banish bare legs; tights are de rigeur for chilly autumn days. Make sure they are opaque and dark, preferably black. Or else splash out on a pair of Marc Jacobs leg warmers as seen paraded down his catwalk and much copied high street stores like the every dependable, finger on the pulse of fashion, Topshop.
Being sobre and sombre, (but only in regards to your colour palette), is very much in vogue this season. Style sirens are investing in deep, rich shades of greys and maroons and after a summer awash with white, black is back with a vengeance. In the world of accessories, it’s not that hard to buy beautifully as long as you pick your pieces and stay on trend.
Natasha Faruque is a freelance fashion journalist. She is Associate Editor of the European Lux Magazine www.lux-mag.com , Managing Editor of Estee Lauder's Platinum Magazine and writes for the Resident, Square Mile, City to Cities and Rise.
