5 Summer Accessories to Invest in Now

Written By Kim Wallace – In-house Blogger

Stylish people in the know see accessorising as a crucial part of outfit building and treat it as an art form in itself. Coco Chanel famously advised against accessory overload when she said, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off”. On the other hand, fashion icon and style maximalist Iris Apfel opposed this theory by saying, “More is more and less is a bore”. Wherever your preference falls on the accessorising scale, adding details to your outfit can complete a look and show off your unique personality and flair - which is something we help you discover in your Style Analysis. 

In the summer months, we tend to wear fewer layers and simplified outfits, so it’s the perfect chance to add interesting elements to your look with ‘look at me’ pieces like a statement necklace or a customised handbag. To make it easy for you, we’ve selected the 5 must-have accessories to try out this season to elevate your summer looks – you’ll probably already have a few in your wardrobe!    

Sea-Inspired Jewels

Let the ocean be your muse this summer and add marine life to your jewellery collection.  

On the runway, pendants in the form of fish and shells dangled from necklaces and earrings at Etro and Roberto Cavalli, while strings of pearls are always the catch of the day at Chanel. Versace and Dior both used sea charms to decorate delicate bracelets, and Tiffany & Co. dedicated a whole high-end jewellery collection to the ‘wonders of the ocean’ using opulent diamonds, rare rubies and sapphires. If you don’t have the cash to splash on the real deal, the high street is full of fun, fish-themed pendants on cord necklaces, and don’t forget the joys of deep diving for a one-off charity shop treasure. 

Extra-Large Sunnies

Teeny 90s-style sunglasses, futuristic and sporty frames have dominated for the last few years, but this summer, XL sunglasses are so back. Loewe, Gucci and Tom Ford showed oversized butterfly styles with both acetate and metal frames, proving that bigger is better. Aviator glasses are still big news, with updated features like curved frames, coloured lenses or bug-eye finishes that make a statement. Lean into boho styling like Chloé and pair your XL frames with lace skirts, crochet details and a slouchy leather jacket for a look that’ll have you feeling nostalgic for the indie-sleaze era.

Kooky Bags

Maybe it’s the flip side of the quiet luxury trend, or maybe we just need some joy in our lives, but boring bags are out this summer. What started in 2022 with J.W. Anderson’s Pigeon Clutch has evolved into a flood of ‘fun’ shaped bags for SS25. Choose from giant bunnies by Simone Rocha, or maybe a Moschino pizza slice is more your bag? If a quirky design is too bold, show off your style and customise an existing bag with charms, jewellery and more, à la Jane Birkin. (We daren’t say the word ‘Labubu.’) Wearing jeans and a basic tee? A kooky bag can add some pizzazz to even the simplest outfit. We’re still coveting THAT Loewe Heirloom Tomato Clutch.

Chunky Cuffs

Dainty bracelets have reigned supreme for years, but this season, they’re stepping aside to make way for the return of the chunky cuff. Acne Studios and Balmain accessorised their runway looks with one jumbo cuff, while Alaïa gave us a lesson in symmetry with models sporting XL cuffs on both wrists. Stacking gold and silver bangles in high-shine chrome (bonus points for molten metal details) can add some luxe to a minimalist look, while colourful cuffs made from resin or acetate inject a playful and eclectic touch to a bold ‘fit. When it’s too hot to layer clothes, why not layer your jewellery instead?   

Bandana Scarves

A silk scarf is one of the hardest-working accessories you can own – knot it around your neck, loop it to your bag, wrap it around your ponytail, sling it through your belt loops – the possibilities are truly endless. This season, the fashion crowd are wearing silk scarves as bandanas – call it the Prada effect. Part noughties throwback, very Carrie Bradshaw and, it turns out, a great way to give an old accessory a new lease of life while protecting your head from the sun. Go for a classic bandana print or choose a bright scarf that clashes perfectly with your outfit.  

Need help accessorising? Book a personalised Style Analysis with one of our expert stylists today and make your wardrobe work for you this summer!