Turn 'Plain Natural' into 'Glam Natural' with Accessories

Vogue Italia Editorial Tribute to Black Beauties

Are you afraid that sporting natural hair will put a halt on your femininity? Maybe you feel that a TWA will make you look boyish? There are ways to exude your feminine side and turn plain natural into glam natural. Do it with accessories!

Accessories have transformative powers. They can transform any outfit into a runway look and any hairstyle into a masterpiece. Jewelry, belts, shoes, handbags, scarves, hats, and headbands are accessories that can take you from winter to summer, day to night, drab to bright and cheery, soft to bold, casual to sexy, and plain to glam.

• Shoes can instantly change a look from casual to sexy. If you think you can't wear heels, think again! Heels can be comfortable but you have to shop around. Try on as many pairs as you can until you find the style that's best for you. You don't have to sacrifice fit for fashion. Try platforms, wedges, round toes over pointy toes, shoe pads, and low inch heels.
  
  
• Jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, and bracelets or bangles can add color to any outfit. Chunky necklaces are a great way to transform a plain tank top or shirt.
  
  
• Earrings, especially hoop earrings, have become a popular choice among naturals. They add an instant feminine quality.
  
  
• A handbag plays the role of a mobile medicine cabinet, makeup bag, it holds your important items like your wallet and cell phone, and even acts as a dumping ground. Your bag serves multiple purposes but fashion is at the top of the list. Oversized bags and small handheld pieces are all the rage. A handbag or clutch can be that extra time-saving piece that you go to when you don't have a lot of time to glam up or it can compliment the accessories you're already wearing.
  
  
• Want to add bold color or just a pop? A scarf not only keeps you warm but it can balance out an outfit by creating contrast and texture. It can also be worn in place of a necklace. They cost very little and can be tied and worn in more than 30 ways! A soft floral scarf can go a long way in adding to your feminine quality.
  
  
• Headbands come in a variety of styles and textures. They have a direct impact on your natural hair by transforming a plain hairstyle like a pony, puff, wash-n-go, or Afro into something stylish.
  
  
• Makeup is an accessory we definitely wouldn't want to overlook. Eye shadow, blush, mascara and lip gloss can go a long way in enhancing your feminine side.

Once you experiment with a variety of accessories, you'll know which ones compliment you best. Some great accessory stops include Forever 21, Charming Charlie, Icing, Pandora, and many women's fashion apparel retailers.

Go accessorize!