I Recently Returned from the South of France—These 5 Accessories Elevated Every Summer Outfit to Look More Luxurious.
Kaye Bassey serves as an editor in residence at Who What Wear and has nearly ten years of experience as a fashion and beauty content creator, influencer, and writer. She has recently started a Substack newsletter that discusses trends, outfit ideas, shopping suggestions, and other insider information. If you're seeking ways to enhance your summer wardrobe and add a touch of sophistication to your outfits, you would have benefited from being in the South of France with me last month. A reliable suggestion is to add more accessories, which is exactly what I observed in Monaco and Monte Carlo. A well-chosen accessory can completely change the look of an outfit without needing an entire wardrobe overhaul. However, it can be difficult to know what will work for you. Believe me—I understand the struggle of deciding what to add to your shopping cart with so many options available. Consider these items as the finishing touches that transform even the simplest linen dress or basic white T-shirt and shorts into something intentional. With summer still upon us, it's crucial to find accessories that can be enjoyed throughout the summer and transition into fall. The aim isn't to amass more items; it's about selecting smarter pieces that enhance your wardrobe and offer infinite styling possibilities. When investing in the right additions for your closet, it's important that they stand the test of time and provide significant use. Whether you're planning a late-summer vacation, spending weekends in the city, or maximizing your warm-weather fashion, these accessories will effortlessly complete your outfits. Here are some accessories you’ll want to grab for the final days of summer.
**Raffia Bags**
Those in the South of France essentially pioneered the raffia bag trend, and for good reason. Few bags epitomize "summer vacation" like a beautiful raffia bag—just ask Jane Birkin. It perfectly captures the spirit of summer.
- Jacquemus: The Spiaggia Round Bag
- MUUN: Sophie Canvas-Trimmed Woven Straw Tote
- Zimmermann: Goldentime Medium Raffia Tote Bag
**Oversize Sunglasses**
I’m thrilled that this trend is making a strong comeback, and it was the ideal accessory for my trip. There’s been a revival of styles featuring tinted lenses and frameless designs—I’m really into it. They are fun, modern, and evoke just the right amount of nostalgia.
- Miu Miu: Rectangle Sunglasses
- DIOR: DiorPacific M1U Acetate Sunglasses
- Le Specs: Parallel Universe Sunglasses
- Jimmy Fairly: Aela Sunglasses
- CHLOÉ: Izia Aviator-Style Acetate Sunglasses
**Statement Bangles**
Statement bangles are accessories that immediately elevate an outfit's appeal. While they are perfect for summer, they remain versatile throughout the year. Stack several together with a linen dress or sleeveless top in warmer weather, and then carry them into the fall by wearing them with knitwear, like an oversized cardigan, and tailored pants. They are classic and incredibly versatile.
- Anthropologie: Round Bangle Bracelets
- Anthropologie: Resin Bangle
- SAME: Layered Tower Bangle
- Meshki: Marah Resin Bangle Set
- Luv AJ: The Formentera Bangle Set
**Scarves**
If there’s one accessory that every wardrobe should have, it’s a well-curated collection of scarves. They can be styled around your neck, in your hair, around your waist, or even worn as a top, offering numerous ways to refresh your outfits effortlessly. I certainly spotted this style everywhere during my travels.
- TOTEME: Printed Silk-Twill Scarf
- DIOR: Toile de Jouy Floral Garden 90 Square Scarf
**Hair Accessories**
The gentle summer breeze invites us to hold, clip, and slick back our hair. Hair accessories are growing in popularity as they can instantly enhance an outfit while remaining timeless. You'll never regret bringing them along.
- SAINT LAURENT: Gold-Tone Hair Clip
- Free People: Belle Rosette Claw Clip
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I Recently Returned from the South of France—These 5 Accessories Elevated Every Summer Outfit to Look More Luxurious.
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