Accessorise or Die!
Transform your look with these exceptional, designer accessories
In association with Isabella's Wardrobe, Glasgow
“The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize”
These words, from the inimitable Clairee (played by Olympia Dukakis in Steel Magnolias), often make me smile when I'm styling an outfit! Indeed, I sometimes even start with an accessory - a handbag, necklace or scarf - and build a whole look around it.
Since I was a child, taken, as a treat, to a department store to pick out a shiny, colourful, new string of beads, I have truly loved accessories! Perhaps I was a magpie in a former life! I love that a simple pair of jeans and a t-shirt can be transformed into a whole outfit by the addition of a couple of key accessories. And I would simply feel incomplete (and probably quite irritable) if I left the house without a few well-chosen pieces to complete my outfit of the day!
So if you're looking for a quick, easy and stylish update to your spring/summer wardrobe, here's my pick of some of the best vintage and pre-loved pieces that'll make you look and feel fierce and fabulous!
Ciner Vintage Collar and Earrings
Click image to shop these pieces directly
This matching set by the prized, American, costume jeweller, Ciner, is a classic piece of 80s decadence. Handcrafted and hallmarked, high quality gold-plated jewellery like these clip-on earrings and necklace, are much sought-after by vintage collectors worldwide. I especially love the warm, golden tone of these pieces which would look especially beautiful on dark or sun-kissed, summer skin (unlike my pale, wintery pallor here)!
Gianni Versace Umbrella
Click images to shop this Gianni Versace Medusa Head Motif Umbrella
Let's be honest, British summers can be unpredictable, so why not insure your style against the inevitable downpours with this telescopic, Gianni Versace umbrella?
A huge, Versace print revival has rippled across the high street, but this is a rare chance to own a genuine piece of classic Versace, complete with signature Medusa Head motif, both in the print and on the silver badge on the wooden handle. And if the sun does shine, make like me, and use it as a parasol!
Vivienne Westwood Yasmine Handbag
Iconic. Rebellious. Punky. Fabulous! Vivienne Westwood is the ultimate Grande Dame of British fashion and this brand new, never been used bag encapsulates her eponymous brand's values perfectly.
The small 'Frame' Yasmine design is the ideal size for toting all your essentials around and the double top-handle is beautifully on trend. Style it with warm, amber tones or simply add this pop of punk to a classic LBD. Zip closure, real leather, logo-printed lining, iconic golden orb emblem - what's not to LOVE?!