Accessory help - YouLookFab Forum

Hi, my first WIW : )

I am short (5'2) and short waisted, so typically do not tuck, but I love this top, it's perfect for hot weather business casual office wear. The skirt has belt loops, so I felt I needed a belt otherwise the exposed loops would make me feel unfinished. However, I struggled with a belt and necklace combo based on the bronze shoe.
In a perfect world I could see a bright colored pump or sandal, but in the absence of such shoes, are the bright silver necklace and silver belt in conflict with the shoes? Am I over or under accessorized? Do I need more color in the outfit? Any suggestions are appreciated!

White sheer cotton tuxedo shirt layered on white camisole
Talbots Dark blue Denim pencil skirt
Clarks bronze sandals

thanks!

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12 years ago

Kari

Veteran

I think it's just a tad over-accessorized, but just barely. If it were me, I would remove the necklace. The chain belt adds great visual detail, but the blouse already has a lot going on with the ruffles, and the large statement necklace just isn't necessary. You could always add a very delicate necklace in its place. Love the metallic shoes. I am a huge fan of color, but don't think that it's always necessary, either - a pretty, polished neutral outfit does the trick too, especially with the sheen of the metallic pieces and the textural interest in the top.

Carolyn

Active Member

I love the belt. I think I would keep it over the necklace if you feel like it's too much. And I adore the ruffles!

rute

Great outfit! You look lovely with the tucked top! I would show the belt and take off the necklace.
belt+ruffles+boldnecklace.. is too much, instead you can wear a nice ring or earrings!

Jjsloane

I agree with all, the belt works, the blouse is beautiful, but the necklace is overkill for this outfit. I think the shoes act as a neutral so wouldn't worry about the metallic mixing (which is in anyway). For another mix you could try a colorful belt (or a long patterned scarf as a belt?

Janet

(website)

Yep, I'm in agreement with the suggestions that the necklace could be left off. Sometimes when I take off a necklace in a situation like this, I go with larger, danglier earrings.

It's a great outfit! I'm a big fan of metallic shoes.

Suz

I agree with the rest—the necklace can go (this time, but it's a lovely piece and will look great with another outfit!)

I love that belt with this outfit. It looks super with the shoes. BTW, are those shoes comfortable for you? I was eyeing them recently....

Joy

I agree with the others. Remove the necklace. The necklace is beautiful, so I can see why you would want to wear it. You might try a plainer top tucked, the necklace, and a plain low contrast belt like black leather that won't compete with the necklace.
You have some lovely things to work with. Love the skirt on you and those gorgeous shoes!

teri

I also agree with the others. That is a great white ruffle top

Freckles

I'm also in accord with everyone else. Beautiful combination which seems perfect for your work environment. Totally respectful and the gorgeous blouse softens up a strong look.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

I think this outfit works if you like a very accessorized style. Very nice!

modgrl

Hey there fellow shortie! I think you look lovely. Keep the earrings to a minimum, studs if anything at all and you are all set.

Kappy

Great first WIW. Love your shoes (and the whole outfit).

Aida

Very nice outfit! I agree with Kari, Rute, and Angie

I think your key questions about color and over/under accessorizing are personal preference items Did YOU feel like you needed more color, or more/less accessories?

As far as other accessory options, I'd also second the suggestion of a colorful thin belt, if you like color and feel like you need some, or even a leopard print/snakeskin belt. No necklace+small glittery earrings would look cute. If you want to wear a necklace, a single strand of something (pearls, colorful stones, glass beads...) would be less competition with the pretty ruffles.

Briar

Thanks, ladies! This is exactly the feedback I was hoping for!

My challenge has been dressing with more visual interest, but finding the right balance for my size, shape and style. I have been purchasing more tops/blouses with texture/detail instead of my typical simple, solid knit t-shirts and plain cardigans. I am also replacing simple and delicate accessories with more interesting and substantial items, but this outfit was a perfect example of where simple jewelry would have worked better. I'm still trying to develop an eye to know when I have on too much (overdone) vs. too little (plain) so really appreciate that YLF members are here to help!

What I gleaned from your feedback that I believe will work for me is

1) the ruffles and the statement necklace together was too much for me and I didn't even think about earrings. I agree that statement earrings or a simpler necklace would have been best with the ruffles. I just couldn't wait to wear my new necklace!

2) @jssloane-needed the reinforcement to mix metals, thank you!

3) @aida-I did feel that either color or metallic shine would liven up the blue/white outfit. The snakeskin belt is a great suggestion for both metallic and nude shoes, so this is going on the shopping list! What my left/matchy-matchy brain cannot reconcile is wearing a colored belt with the metallic shoes. I'll have to try it with my red belt and a colored scarf per @jssloane and resubmit for feedback.

@suz-These shoes are similar to the Clarks Artisan Splendor Plume sandal. The color is called grey metallic, but they are closer to bronze and the color works really well as a neutral against my pale skin. I have fussy feet and these are WONDERFUL. I wear a 6C shoe and I fit in the Clarks 6.5 M US/5 D UK.

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