Bold, bright and beautiful: Accessorizing for summer

Summer is the most playful time of year for fashion, and especially for accessorizing.

Between boldly printed lightweight scarves, bright beaded necklaces and colorful sunglasses, summer’s accessories add some fun and liveliness to any outfit – all while keeping you breezy and comfortable in the hot weather. So, whether you love to rock long, flowy maxi skirts or shorter sheath dresses, take a look at these ways you can accessorize your looks this summer:

Scarves
Especially during early and late summer when the mornings and evenings are a little breezy, scarves make the perfect chic accessory. They’re colorful, lightweight, fun and can be worn in several different ways, including around your neck, as a headband and even as a belt. Plus, if you’re getting a little warm, you can simply take your scarf off and tie it around the handle of your handbag for a playful yet sophisticated look that’s perfect for the summer.

Woman in coral scarf over white lace tank and white pants

Jewelry
Jewelry trends for summer 2015 run the gamut from big geometric bangles to statement chokers, but they all have one thing in common: This season, jewelry is all about showing off your personality. It doesn’t matter if you want to dress up a simple top with a vibrant statement floral necklace or add some pizzazz with dangling metallic earrings. The important part of accessorizing with jewelry this summer is having fun with it – because pretty much anything goes.

Hats
We love the look of fedoras over the summer, because they have just the right amount of casual but stylish charm to look good on anyone. Over the warmer months, opt for a feminine white version or a box-weaved style to wear on the weekends while running errands, taking the family shopping or hitting the beach.

Woman in black floppy sun hat and black and white swimsuit

Shoes
After spending months in boots, sandals are a great way to celebrate warm weather. For the utmost comfort and versatility, look for strappy versions – like gladiator sandals, for instance – that won’t have any trouble staying on your feet while walking around all day. When looking for summertime sandals, wedges and even flats, don’t be afraid to choose colorful or embellished styles that will make a statement. If you’re looking for a neutral color, though, opt for nude or white over black to embrace the season.

Belts
Belts are a must-have for any season because they can accentuate curves while defining a waist, and this season it’s all about the thin belts. When wearing anything particularly flowy or loose, like a tunic or a maxi dress, consider adding a belt to pull the look together and add instant definition.

Woman in black floral maxi dress with brown belt

Handbags
No matter your style, a beautiful tote or cross-body bag is the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. If you can’t leave the house without a big handbag, opt for a colored, patterned or textured tote that adds some visual interest to your look while still being practical. If smaller bags are more your style, cross-body bags in bright or metallic hues are a great complement to any summer wardrobe.