How many times have you seen a pair of cute earrings and wondered what outfit you’d wear with… How many times have you seen a pair of cute earrings and wondered what outfit you’d wear with them? Or found the perfect top, but realized you’d need a sexy necklace to go with it? If you’ve answered yes to either of these questions, congratulate yourself – you understand that accessories are the backbone of everyday trends.

Now I’ve never been too big on shoes, but lately when it comes to clothing and accessories, hold me back! Now more than ever, I’m beginning to notice how a basic piece of jewelry can update your pieces of clothing to create the illusion of having more clothing. And if you’re a “financially challenged” student like myself, you’re all about the business of stretching your limited wardrobe.

Maybe it’s just me, but doesn’t it seem like the popularity of cute little accessories is steadily increasing? Meaning, everywhere you turn, someone is purchasing beaded, dangled earrings or a metallic belt to accentuate her outfit. But surely I’ve been bitten by the accessory bug, too: Classic accessories always leave me smiling.

Nevertheless, the hardest part when shopping for accessories is discerning between what’s a classic piece and what’s, how do you say, too trendy? Open-weave, braided belts and oval-wood drops are exempt from this deliberation process, though – they are oh so cute and can hide shortcomings in any outfit.

So what’s a classic accessory? They are usually the pieces you find in your grandmother’s jewelry box, and deep in the depths of her closet. These timeless pieces go in and out of style but always, always complement fashion.

Take pearls, for example. They are the ultimate symbol of purity and perfection. Created inside living organisms, pearls come in a variety of different sizes, colors and forms, leaving the precious gem with sheer splendor and versatility. And because pearls are so elegant, manufacturers have created imitation gems with the same luster as authentic pearls.

Think pearls just aren’t for you? Try oblong bead necklaces. They, too, come in different shapes and sizes and the more popular styles are often oval shaped – or perfectly round – necklaces. While some of these beads aren’t as sophisticated as pearls, they offer elegant looks and give more feminine appearance to any style.

Another traditional accessory is the classic pouch that every woman should own. This is the small- to medium-sized bag that can easily be worn over the shoulder or carried in your hand. Its convenient size allows plenty of room for all your everyday essentials (lip gloss, wallet, cell phone – you know the rest), and this classic bag is typically lined and is complete with a small pocket inside. Who could ask for more?

However, if you’re the more daring type, or if you just have tons of junk that you like to lug around, a large leather weekend bag may be more optimal. They’re wonderful for carrying books and are great for huge shopping trips.

If you’re petite like me, though, you may opt for a medium-sized bag. But please, please make sure your accessories are scaled to your figure, for we don’t want to look like the Leaning Tower of Pisa walking to class.

It’s not brain surgery, ladies – accessories complement fashion, and if you want to complete the look you’re going for, highlight your apparel with simple embellishments. It’s glam, it’s stunning, it’s the answer.

And, as always, if it doesn’t flatter your personal style, forget it. Why waste your money adding pointless sequins, trims and studs to your outfit that won’t harmonize with your image? For maximum impact, be yourself and prepare to instantly update your wardrobe in no time flat. Mark my words.

Deena thinks accessories can be great as long as they aren’t overdone. If you think you wear too many accessories and look like a sparkling bag lady, e-mail her at [email protected].