Accessory Tips for Every Corporate Woman

There are just some things a girl can't do without, but when you are accessorizing in the corporate world, what you choose can project the perfect image or the wrong one. The good news is what's acceptable has become more flexible and a lot more colorful.

Bridgette Kirk, creative director of personal fashion consultancy The Style Agency says the biggest change we have seen with corporate women's accessories is variety and accessibility. "Women are not just wearing your classic black pumps with a black leather handbag, but they are branching out by adding color," Ms Kirk says.

But corporate style adviser Cosimina Nesci warns: “If used properly accessories can add to your personality or make you stand out for the wrong reasons." That's why it is important to choose carefully and consider what message you are sending.

The six rules of accessorizing

1. Accessories are a great way to show others that you have a polished complete look. If used correctly they allow one to show individuality while still looking appropriately dressed for the job.
2. Remember you need to be seen and remembered for your expertise not what you are wearing.
3. Get the best quality you can buy.
4. Accessories should be timeless and should not reflect fashion trends – unless you are in the fashion or creative industry.
5. Accessories should not overpower you but instead add to your professional image.
6. The accessories you wear to work are not the same ones you wear on a Saturday night.

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In Fashion - Fall 2012 Top Accessory Trends

Go big and go bold. That's the style message for best fashion accessories this fall. And yes, you can pile them all on at the same time -- the more the merrier. From chunky bangles to layers of necklaces, jeweled brooches, lots of booties and luxury handbags, the extras this season are statement makers and sure to make anything you wear much more special. Here are a few of the best extras:

--The structured handbag. The lady-like looks are back in modern shapes, such as trapezoid totes, cross-body bags, portfolio envelopes and clutches in exotic skins. For even more fun, check out a vivid color-blocked handbag or add a handbag covered with fur.

--Medieval-inspired jewelry. Think Gothic with a metallic twist. Coiling serpentine drop earrings and bracelets are two of the newest looks for fall. Chain metal bib necklaces in brushed silver and burnished black are other favorites of this tough, chic trend.

--Bright gemstones. Rubies. Emeralds. Sapphires. Oh, my! The more colorful the better. Wear them clustered, all together, in choker necklaces, large brooches or chunky cuffs.

--Sculptured rings. The big cocktail ring has grown up into a piece of art. The newest rings take on an artistic flair in icy crystals or molten metals.

--The embellished shoe. Perhaps one of the season's most exciting buys and one of the fastest ways to make old clothes look and feel new. Whether it's a pair of embroidered tuxedo slippers or a textured metallic high heel, the shoes are stunners this fall.

--The leather or suede boot. What's a fall wardrobe without at least one pair of boots? And this year, there are so many styles to choose from you may want to start collecting a whole wardrobe of boots. Start with a pair of edgy ankle boots. Or step out in a pair of classic equestrian-inspired boots. And if you're really adventurous, the spike-heeled, thigh-high boots are a real attention getter.

--A graphic printed scarf. It's another way to instantly update your fall clothes. Scarves have come a long way since the days of the fringed pashmina. This season wrap up in a colorful, printed silk scarf that's on the plus size for more impact.

--Colorful tights. Still love to live in an all black wardrobe? Never fear. Inject some color into your ensembles with a pair of opaque tights in cobalt blue, fiery red or emerald green.

--Short gloves. With all the lady-like handbags and shoes out there this fall, it doesn't come as a surprise that short, wrist-style gloves are back in a big way. Check them out in bold colors or classic black and white leather. Tres chic.

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