Fall Accessories 2008: It's the Little Things That Count

Accessories have always taken a backseat to more prominent fashion pieces – it’s always the must-have new pair of jeans or the pair of sneakers everyone talks about. But what about the crucial finishing touches? Those added minutes spent picking a cute necklace or the perfect handbag for the day might mean waking up earlier, but it is well worth the time! This fall, accessorizing is all about versatility – staying functional and on a budget without sacrificing style.

Headbands
You’ve seen them everywhere, whether on the head of your favourite Gossip Girl or sitting on the rack at your favourite store. Take the plunge and buy your own head accessory – in every colour, of course. Headbands are very versatile, and can dress up or down any outfit, depending on the style and type. Again, you can go crazy with a colourful headband complete with frilly bow (very “in” this season), or stay casual with a plain elastic one. Whichever way you do it, this style isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Headbands with bows, brightly coloured headbands and braided headbands (which can also be used as a belt) are all in this fall.
Zahra’s pick: American Apparel shiny headband, available at American Apparel stores and online

Scarves
Scarves are a must-have for any quick outfit turn-around. Dress up a classic dark coat with a colourful scarf (my personal favourite is red) and you’ve taken a drab outfit to fab, in mere seconds! They’re not hard to find – just hit up your favourite mall and you’re bound to find plenty at a great price.
Zahra’s pick: Cozy knit scarf from Aldo

Handbags
The perfect handbag isn’t minuscule, it’s efficient enough to lug around the heaviest of items. Yes, it has to be useful, but who says you can’t have a practical bag that’s also fab? A handbag can take any outfit from not-so-hot to extremely stylish. A lot of bags also come with a short and long strap, perfect for us style gurus on the go; lug your bag around by hand, or on the shoulder. For fall, you’ll see a lot of feminine touches like ruffles and tassels on what might otherwise be just a plain handbag. Great finds are at your local Mexx, Aldo, H&M or Urban Outfitters. Don’t be afraid to splurge – a great quality bag will last you a long, long time.
Zahra’s pick: “Latera” bag in mustard from Aldo

Jewellery
A great necklace or a fabulous bangle can dress up any outfit. If you’re looking to make a statement, stay simple with the outfit and let your amazing find do all the talking. Don’t go overboard with your jewellery – accessorizing is about balance. This year, the statement necklace is the piece to have so don’t go too crazy with your earrings and bangles. For great jewellery pieces, hit up Urban Outfitters or your closest Aldo Shoes/Accessories store.
Zahra’s pick: Orange statement
necklace from Mexx

Tights
Tights of all colours and textures have re-emerged in the fashion world. Don’t be afraid to go bold with your tights – they’re an inexpensive way to liven up even the dullest of outfits. Pair a white tee and a high-waisted black skirt with any brightly coloured tight and you’ll be brightening up the dreariest of fall days. Find them at any American Apparel, H&M, Urban Outfitters or Forever 21 stores.
Zahra’s pick: American Apparel opaque pantyhose, at American Apparel stores and online

Whichever accessory you use to take your outfit to the next level, you’ll be turning heads. It only takes a few dollars to make any outfit go from simply drab to simply fabulous!