Timeless Doesn't Always Mean Tasteful
Plenty of accessories have been around for decades, but longevity doesn't always equal taste. Some are impressively timeless and manage to look good no matter what era it is, but some, well, they don't exactly deserve applause. These pieces can make an outfit feel dated, messy, or unnecessarily dramatic, even if you don't mean to. Here are 20 accessories we'd say it's time to say goodbye to.
1. Tiny Sunglasses
If squinting were a stylish thing to do, then these tiny sunglasses would make a lot more sense. Unfortunately, though this accessory might look good in high-fashion editorials, in real life, they just make you look a lot more judgmental. The worst part is, they're not even as practical as regular sunglasses!
Abdul Raheem Kannath on Unsplash
2. Oversized Logo Belts
Oversized logos on any piece of fashion just seems excessive and attention-seeking. When the buckle is the first thing anyone notices, it becomes clear exactly what your goal is. It doesn't help tie the outfit together, in fact, a cleaner belt might look more expensive with your look.
3. Fedora Hats
Fedoras have had many lives, and not all of them were graceful. Sure, they can work in very specific outfits, but more often than not, it's almost a skill to pull them off. The shape just tends to clash with casual clothing, which makes the whole look feel weirdly formal yet not formal enough.
4. Chunky Statement Necklaces
Just because something looks minimalistic doesn't mean you need to throw on every statement piece you own. Chunky, dramatic necklaces overpower the entire look and vibe you're going for, and it adds personality, but not in the way you want.
5. Fingerless Gloves
As a fashion accessory, fingerless gloves can make outfits look like they're stuck in limbo between edgy and unsure. And as a practical item, they do little to keep your palms warm, while giving your fingers absolutely no coverage. Unless it's a sports accessory for biking or outdoor activities, we'd give these a pass.
6. Bedazzled Phone Cases
Sparkly phone cases can be fun, but bedazzled, "in your face" versions don't really age well. They can look quite tacky, and when the gems eventually fall off, you're left with a spotty, grimy case that looks a mess. If you want timeless, opt for something more sleek.
7. Skinny Scarves
Skinny scarves seem elegant in theory, but they’re usually more decorative than useful. They don’t keep you warm, they don’t add much structure, and they often sit awkwardly around the neck. You might think they're adding a pop of color or texture to your look, but it's more likely to make you feel uncomfortable.
8. Giant Hoop Earrings
Hoop earrings are classic of course, but the giant versions can become a bit too much. They just seem a bit too excessive for casual everyday wear, and not to mention, they're not very practical either. You'll often find them catching on hairs, clothes, headphones, and other little things that'll make them an annoyance.
9. Decorative Suspenders
Suspenders for formal events can look charming when they match your look, but decorative ones with strange colors or patterns can make your outfit feel more like a costume. Not to mention, clip-ons with no purpose look exactly as described: confused.
10. Oversized Tote Bags
There should be a limit to how big your tote bags should be. These are useful and often very stylish bags to carry your stuff around in, but the bigger they get, the funkier they look. They can easily distort your entire outfit's proportions when they start looking more over-the-top than functional.
11. Beaded Bracelets
Beaded bracelets have a relaxed, casual charm, but stacking too many can quickly look messy. The colors, textures, and elastic bands often compete with watches, rings, and sleeves, leaving you with an unintended vibe. A single refined bracelet usually carries more impact than a crowded wrist.
12. Novelty Socks
Novelty socks are harmless fun, just don't wear them to serious or formal events that make them immediately feel out of place. A little pattern can show personality, yet cartoon prints and loud slogans can undercut an otherwise polished outfit.
Rohan Gangopadhyay on Unsplash
13. Newsboy Caps
This fashion accessory has a long history, but it doesn't always work with modern styling. When worn on the right person, a newsboy cap has the potential to look charming, but it's definitely difficult to pull off. Their puffed shape simply feels hard to balance with modern jackets and casual layers.
14. Rhinestone Hair Clips
Rhinestone hair clips can be pretty, but too quickly can they overstep their boundaries. One delicate clip can look sophisticated, but wearing too many creates a glittery mess. They also tend to pull attention away from your face instead of framing it.
Preillumination SeTh on Unsplash
15. Wide Corset Belts
Though these have been around for many trendy cycles, we're tired of seeing oversized corset belts that shorten the torso, bunch up fabric, and make simple actions like sitting down feel like a challenge. They’re meant to define the waist, but they often make an outfit look more complicated than stylish.
16. Wraparound Sunglasses
Wraparound sunglasses are practical for sports, but we wouldn't say they're ideal for casual outings. Their aggressive shape can make any outfit feel oddly intense or misguided, so unless you’re cycling, skiing, or doing something that requires serious eye protection, just wear normal sunglasses.
17. Charm Bracelets
Charm bracelets might be sentimental, which is sweet, but you can't deny that too many charms can make them look noisy and crowded. We're not saying they don't have meaning, simply that the look can overwhelm the wrist. If anything, just opt for fewer charms!
18. Micro Handbags
Realistically, what are you keeping in your micro handbag? They don't fit anything larger than a lip balm! They might look stylish for a moment, but the lack of practicality makes them feel less fashionable by the second.
19. Patterned Bandanas
Patterned bandanas are versatile, but there's a time and place for them. You need to match them to the occasion, or else they look far too themed to be wearing out on a casual Saturday.
20. Anklets
There's just something about anklets that feel more youthful than stylish. When they include charms, shells, or bells, the whole accessory can become distracting very quickly, and not in the ideal way. A simple chain works far better for an elegant touch.
