Trendy Accessories: Scarves, Belts and Jewelry to Wear Now

The trendy accessories that do the most work right now are a statement belt, a pendant necklace and a scarf you can tie more than one way. Pick one as the focal point of an outfit and keep the other two quiet.

Trends move quickly, so this guide sticks to pieces that keep earning their place: how to wear them, how to balance them and which outfit formulas make them look intentional.

Section 01

What accessories are trending right now?

I won't pretend to forecast a season. Across the shoppable roundups, the same families keep returning: belts with a visible buckle or wide cut, pendant necklaces and layered chains, silk and printed scarves, woven bags, hats and sunglasses, and hair accessories. For trendy accessories for women, the three that change an outfit most are belts, necklaces and scarves, so those are covered below.

Section 02

How to wear statement belts

A statement belt gives a shapeless outfit a waistline and a clear focal point. It works over a flowing dress, a long cardigan, a blazer or a trench coat, and on high-waisted jeans or trousers.

• Cinch a dress or long coat at the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the navel.
• Wide belts read as bold. Slim belts read as quiet, so choose slim when the clothes already have a print.
• Match the belt metal to your jewelry, or keep both neutral, so the look doesn't split in two.

Through the lens of evidence-based design, I'd treat the belt as the first thing the eye reads, because a strong horizontal line at the waist pulls attention to the middle of the outfit. If you want more on this, see defining your silhouette with belts and waist accessories.

Leather or embellished?

A plain leather belt in black or brown goes with almost everything and ages well. An embellished or metallic belt suits evenings and plain dresses. If you buy one, buy the plain one first.

Section 03

Pendant necklaces and cute accessories jewelry

A pendant is the easiest way into fashion accessories jewelry because it sits right at the neckline and frames the face. Match its length to your top: a short pendant sits well on crew necks and collars, and a longer one fills a V-neck.

• Layer two or three chains of different lengths, with only one carrying a pendant.
• With a chunky necklace, wear small earrings and one slim bracelet.
• With a busy neckline or a print, choose a fine chain and let it stay subtle.

For earrings, large chandelier or sculptural pairs look best with an off-the-shoulder or strapless top, where nothing competes. With a high collar, go for studs or small hoops.

Mixing metals

Gold and silver can share an outfit if there is a bridge, such as one two-tone piece or a watch. Otherwise commit to one metal for a cleaner look.

Section 04

Scarves and headscarves

A silk scarf is the most flexible accessory you can own. Tie it at the neck, on a bag handle, in your hair or through belt loops. A knit or printed scarf adds color and warmth.

Texture changes how a color reads. A glossy silk and a matte wool in the same red will not look like the same red, because the surface changes how light reaches your eye. As an architect trained in evidence-based design, I'd pair a shiny scarf with a matte knit so each one stays distinct.

For more ideas, read how to style oversized scarves, choosing a bold scarf and soft infinity scarves.

Which fabric for which season?

Silk, cotton and linen are light and breathable for warm weather. Wool, cashmere and thick knits suit cold months.

Section 05

How to balance accessories so an outfit doesn't feel crowded

One focal point is usually enough. If the belt is bold, keep the necklace fine. If the necklace is chunky, wear a slim belt. A plain outfit can take two statement pieces, while a printed one can take almost none.

1. Choose the piece you most want noticed.
2. Set the others a size smaller or a shade quieter.
3. Check your colors: a neutral base lets a bright scarf lead.
4. Mix textures, such as leather with velvet or silk with chunky knit.

If a look feels fussy, take off one item. That is a balance problem, not a you problem.

Section 06

Outfit formulas to copy

Office

Navy trousers, a white tucked blouse, a black leather belt, a silk scarf in a color that picks up the navy and a fine silver necklace.

Casual day

Striped sweater, high-waisted jeans, white sneakers, layered gold necklaces and a patterned scarf worn loose.

Evening

A little black dress with an embellished belt, a statement necklace or chandelier earrings (pick one) and a small clutch.

Weekend brunch

A floral midi dress, a light denim jacket, ankle boots, a woven tote and a wide-brimmed hat. Add delicate bracelets and keep the necklace off.

If you prefer fewer pieces, accessories for minimalist wardrobes and a seasonal capsule wardrobe show how to build a small set that works every day. For belts you can wear hands-free, see adjustable belt bags.

Section 07

Caring for your accessories

Clean leather belts with a damp cloth and follow the care label for conditioner. Check silk scarf labels, since many need hand washing or dry cleaning. Store jewelry in separate pouches or compartments so pieces don't scratch each other, and take it off before exercising or cleaning.

Backstage Q&A

Frequently asked questions

Filed under Wardrobe Basics