Summer 2013 accessory trends

This summer, it’s the accessories that will make or break an outfit. Bold colors, distinctive patterns, and mixed materials are hitting the shelves. Some of the items harken back to the 80s, while others are inspired by movies like The Great Gatsby. The possibilities are endless, the options plentiful. It can almost be overwhelming. The good news: the trends and styles are so diverse you’ll be able to wear what works best for you and forget the trends you don’t like. All about the bold geometric neon necklaces? No problem. Prefer the thick-braided bead look? That’s on point too.

Neon: In a nod to the 80s, neon is back in full force. Bold pinks, yellows, oranges, and greens are in every storefront window. Whether or not you are daring enough to wear neon clothing this summer, a few bold accessories can give you a current look without breaking the bank or going overboard on a possibly fleeting trend.

Geometric Shapes: Also harkening back to the 80s, triangular shapes are making a comeback. Necklaces, earrings–even bracelets–are now sporting large geometric shapes in a variety of colors and looks.

Arm Party: This trend is still going strong. Mix-and-match bangles, bracelets, cuffs, and watches are all ways to create a work of art on your wrist. The more creative and diverse the arrangement the better.

Animal-Inspired: Move aside, animal print. Animal shapes and heads can beautify necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets, and even bags. They come in bright colors and fun designs, giving animal an entirely different feel from the safari of recent years.

Mixed Material: Designers are no longer sticking with one type of material when designing items. It is especially true this summer regarding purses and shoes. There are sandals with multiple types of fabrics and hardware. There are purses that combine both straw-like material and patent leather.

Beads: Beaded necklaces and bracelets are no longer mere summer camp creations. Necklaces string, braid, and loop multiple strands of colorful seed beads together, a fresh new approach to this craft staple.

Fringe: Not just for western wear anymore, fringe has made a comeback this season. It is especially popular on purses and necklaces. Adding a fringe necklace to an otherwise basic top can make an ordinary outfit extraordinary.

Solid Pumps: Move aside, classic black pumps. This summer, the classic office shoe has gotten a colorful twist. Patent leather heels in a variety of colors are replacing the black pump. Orange, green, pink, teal, baby blue. There is a rainbow of colorful options to enhance any outfit.

Minimal Clutch: Maybe it’s the warmer weather making people wear less clothing, but minimalism is also making a comeback in the purse category. Leave the oversized bag at home; go instead for a brightly colored clutch. Many of them now come with a wrist strap or handle for easier transport.

Structured Totes: Gone are the days of shapeless hobo bags. This season’s large purse is the structured tote. These totes have definite shape and a large enough size for you to fit everything you need. They come in solid, bright colors, which adds a little something extra to your overall look.

Colorful Eyewear: Forget the boring black or tortoise-shell frames. Today’s sunglasses come in a menagerie of colors and patterns. Purple, pink, yellow, red… frames and the glass itself is getting a colorful rejuvenation.

Dainty: After years of chunky, bold, colorful accessories, there are a number of lines that are moving toward more delicate and dainty items. Thin chains and small pendants are reappearing on the scene, especially on the West Coast.

So what will you be wearing this summer?