Accessorize

I love shopping for clothes, but I must admit that I have a bit of an obsession with fashion accessories. It always amazes me how you could take one fairly basic outfit and change your look instantly by adding those key pieces: a fierce pair of heels, a statement necklace, a cocktail ring. Even the right bracelet changes my mood right around, taking an outfit that is just “okay” and pulling it together perfectly to make it a “wow.” The same goes for the guys: take a simple outfit and add the right belt or chain–instant transformation. It can be easy to find these great pieces if you shop in the right places, and luckily we have some gems right here in Uptown.

For a unique place that has amazing accessories for both men and women, look no further than Revolution. Located on the second floor of the Epicentre, the sprawling shop is home to a plethora of designer clothing and accessories. They’ve got a great atmosphere, and their fun and down-to-earth staff will make you feel right at home and help you find whatever it is that you are looking for. You can score big here no matter what your personal style is, and they are always running great sales. Ladies, check out the jewelry line here from Diana Warner. Her pieces seem as though they’ve been hand-crafted just for you, and she’s got everything–funky earrings, beautiful necklaces, and gorgeous bracelets. My favorites were these cuffs (shown), that have sayings such as “future” and “hope,” for $45. While you’re browsing, make sure you check out the pieces from Mark Edge. I fell in love with this antique gold and silver lariat, complete with a gorgeous purple gem (shown), for $129.

Guys, listen up: you’ll want to check out Revolution too. Accessorizing is just as important for you–I know several of you realize this already, but many of you don’t. Having three older brothers, I understand. Something as simple as the right belt, like this worn-in brown leather option by J. Lindenberg for $110, can take your run-of-the-mill button-down-and-jeans outfit and kick it up ten notches to a trendy ensemble that will set you apart from the crowd. Not too much, but just enough. Chicks notice this. I’m just saying. Make sure you take a peek at the line of masculine cuffs from Cynthia Desser (shown), ranging from $99 – $155.

Back to the ladies: another great place for show-stopping pieces is Butterfly, located in the Bank of America building. Here you will find stunning necklaces, striking earrings, and elegant cocktail rings, to name a few, all at great price points. Most of their jewelry is handmade, which means you are finding unique pieces that you won’t see anywhere else. I scored big with a sterling silver cocktail ring with mother-of-pearl stone for $35, and also found a one-of-a-kind two-tone lariat necklace that goes great with a formal dress for $39. If you are shopping for a gift, make sure you ask to have it gift-wrapped–their fun ribbon and colors will make you happy you did. While you are in the Bank of America building, head up to the second floor and browse around Ivy & Leo. Among their adorable dresses, you can find some great necklaces here as well.

I’m always intrigued when people tell me they don’t know how to accessorize. Of course they do. I think that the real problem is that they just haven’t found the right places. Hopefully the above will inspire you. Happy shopping!

~ Alessandra Salvatore