If clothes make the man, as Mark Twain famously penned, we think that accessories make the woman. A well-chosen belt or slick pair of sandals can elevate a so-so outfit to the sublime and quickly communicate your personality. Of course, not everyone has equal accessorizing abilities. While some of us will always wonder if we’ve made the right choices, others are super-skilled and know exactly how to mix things up to great effect. Today’s insider falls into the latter category, of course, and is a top talent in her industry. Wickedly funny and wildly knowledgeable, Anne Slowey is ELLE’s Fashion News Director and (more importantly, for our purposes anyway) she also edits the great ELLE Accessories.
Despite her whirlwind schedule and insane workload, Slowey chatted with us about a few of her favorite spring accessories for today’s story. She illuminated us as to why these particular items caught her eye and even shared a few notes on how to wear each piece.
Iossellani Multi Ring ($720)
The mash-up of 18K yellow gold, silver, and sapphires is incredibly appealing to Slowey. She likes the vintage feeling of this ring, plus the interesting details make it a personal piece. We like the fact that the ring looks like it would punch you for calling it “pretty”, then swagger away in your Oakley sunglasses.
Shoes For Lovely People Crystal Flats ($125)
These multicolor snakeskin flats with cutout detailing charmed Slowey. “I love that the shoe is a little preppy and ethnic at the same time,” she said, and we completely agree with her assessment.
Ligia Dias for 3.1 Phillip Lim Necklace ($970)
This runway piece is the handiwork of French jewelry designer Ligia Dias. Prior to launching her eponymous line, the designer collaborated with Alber Elbaz at Lanvin for three years. The ethnic necklace with turquoise stones on the black rope is available at the 3.1 Phillip Lim store in Soho.
Chanel Pink Patent Belt ($920)
The classic Chanel signature buckle belt got a new wave update this season. The neon pink patent adds an of-the-moment touch to any outfit. Also, check out the Babe Belt ($99) by Acne Jeans for a skinnier style or the Melamed Demi Patent Belt ($160).
Wunderkind Vintage Acetate Cat Eye Sunglasses (price upon request)
These modified cat-eye sunglasses from Wunderkind are wonderfully usual and intriguing. Sunglasses junkies, we have the exact style number for you, just ask for the A 45: WKI 0002 B.
Jil Sander Bracelet Clutch ($595)
Slowey loves this smart, chic, dove gray mini clutch for evening. Though it’s super small (5”x5.5”x1”), her three essentials items—credit card, key card, and lip gloss—fit nicely inside.
Sergio Rossi Splash Patent Paint Drip Pumps ($475)
These perry winkle paint drip secretary pumps are a cheeky take on the season’s obsession with all things arty. If you’re not having a blue period, please note that they’re also available in red or black.