Update Your Summer Style: The 5 Accessory Trends You Can't Miss in 2023

Accessories are to outfits what icing is to a cake. 

Both are fine on their own, but they’re so much better together! 

A few well-chosen pieces can be exactly what takes an outfit from basic to better, just like icing on a cake.

Creating a great outfit can be challenging to many; adding accessories to the mix is even tougher for some.  Even though they can be transformational, accessories are often overlooked and forgotten for that exact reason.

How To Make Your Outfits Effortlessly Amazing With Accessories

First thing to know, getting dressed doesn't need to be complicated. Whichever accessory you choose, it doesn’t have to be extravagant and bold if that’s not your style. You can still make a noticeable statement with simple pieces. The key is to strike a balance by adding interest through accessory size, materials, texture, and colors.

On top of their everyday super powers to transform any outfit, accessories are an easy way to refresh a wardrobe when you may not want to update your entire closet. Simply adding a few key pieces each season can breathe new life into your existing clothes. And the best part? You don't have to spend a lot of money to do it.

If you're looking for a seasonal refresh by adding some practical but fun accessories this summer, keep reading. No matter your age, profession, style, or body type, anyone can rock these trends in their own unique way!

The Top 5 Must-Have Accessories For Summer 2023

An eye-catching crumpled foil wrist cuff from Etsy

1. Bold Bracelets
From chic cuffs to stacked bangles, bracelets are having a moment! And now that short-sleeve season is upon us, it’s the perfect time to add some wrist candy.

Bracelets are an easy way to add a pop of color or texture to an outfit, and they work well with everything from casual weekend wear to dressier looks. If you’re not feeling a bold chunky style like a cuff, you can always choose to stack delicate pieces with a mix up of metals for a subtler take on the trend.  I’m loving some new, unique finds on Etsy, like this crumpled foil wrist cuff.

Polene’s “Numéro Un” top handle bag in textured lilac

2. Top Handle Purses
Every season has an ‘it’ bag, and right now it’s all about the top handle purse. Small, fun, and functional, these bags are perfect for adding classic but modern refinement to any look. To have a bit more edge this season, why not try a hue you wouldn't normally choose?!  A bright lime or hot pink? It’s a perfect way to embrace this year’s vibrant color trend with just a small pop of color.

If you haven’t heard of this chic Parisian brand, Polene, check them out, they have such gorgeous bags!  (I recommend that every woman have a stylish statement bag that suits her style AND is functional.  For more of my top recs, sign up for our newsletter to get your free Elevated Style guide.)

Sezane’s “Artemis” big buckle belt

3. Big Buckle Belts
If you're looking to define more of your shape when wearing summer dresses, consider a big buckle belt. (Pro style tip: I suggest that clients remove any belt that comes with a dress. They are usually made of the same fabric as the dress, or faux leather, and can cheapen the look.) Try an authentic leather wide belt in a contrasting color to the dress with a quality hardware buckle as an alternative.

Also keep in mind, the belt that you would normally wear over a dress isn't usually the same size belt you wear for pants.  Choose a “waist-belt” for dresses and make sure to place it on the smallest part of your waist. Don’t place it too low, so you flatter your waist the best. Maybe give your classic Gucci belt a break - there are so many options that are affordable, stylish, yet have great quality. This Artemis belt by Sezane is a great one to wear over a casual chic summer dress.

Altuzarra’s “Watermill” small raffia bag

4. Raffia
Raffia is popping up everywhere this season. Yes, it’s a summer staple usually seen on hats, or beach bags, but this year you can see it on shoes, belts and even jewelry.  Raffia adds a casual-chic summer vibe to any look.

There are plenty of ways to incorporate it into your wardrobe, whether it’s a small detail or an all-out statement piece. Try embracing that French girl feel by pairing a raffia bag with a denim look.  Raffia is not just for the beach though! If you opt for a structured version like the Watermill Bag by Alturzarra, it can easily go from work-to-weekend.

“Capri” statement earrings from Wolf & Badger

5. Statement Earrings
Finally! Earrings are back in a big way. Now that mask-wearing days are mostly behind us, we don’t have to worry about earring tangles anymore. It’s time for statement earrings to shine again! 

From modern pearls to unique drop earrings and bold hoops, earrings are a great way to add personality and draw attention to your beautiful face! These Capri Earrings have just the right amount of color-pop to make any all-black or all-white outfit more interesting. Pair them with a bold cuff and you’re good to go.

The moral of the story is, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun. Our philosophy at Elevated Style By Aliya is always to wear what makes YOU feel good, not just sometimes … every day.  You deserve it.  

For more style tips on how to effortlessly make the most of your wardrobe, be sure to sign up for our newsletter.