Enhance your fashion looks by reaching for one of these accessories from head to toe.

By: Alissa Lee 

Sure you want to use fashion to express yourself. But you don’t have to shell out $150,000 for a Schiaparelli or Louis Vuitton gown to do that.

Annabelle “Kanah” Vue, a junior at the University of Minnesota, has participated in fashion shows such as two V-Shows held by VIIVNCAUS, a club for Hmong women on campus. Vue also has an Instagram account focused on her fashion endeavors. 

“Enjoying what I’m wearing and how it presents me, really sets the tone for the rest of my day,” Vue said. 

Vue says every look that she curates is a form of self-expression. Here are the strategies she agrees can elevate any style on a budget: 

1) Sunglasses 

One of the easiest and simplest ways to style is to throw on a pair of sunglasses. Not only can they protect your eyes from the beaming sun, they can change the vibe of your outfit while complementing any outfit you wear. Sunglasses come in different colors and frames, which can match any aesthetic. They can bring harmony to an outfit and transform a simple look, such as a basic tee and jeans, from low-effort to curated. 

2) Bold jewelry 

Industry trends suggest consumers who buy jewelry often gravitate toward minimalist styles,  with simple designs that can blend in with an everyday look. But fashion is often about being OK with standing out. Touch up your style with layers of jewelry on your wrist, around your neck and on your fingers. Wear brightly colored gems that attract the eye, ones that shimmer in the sun and pick bold designs that might include chunky pendants. 

3) Belts

Much like jewelry, belts can add pop to an outfit. You can get creative with belts, as with many accessories, and there is no right or wrong way to wear one. A belt can go with a dress, trousers, jeans or skirt. Wear it on your waist, hip or anywhere you like if you’re feeling experimental. Belts are a great way to make a statement. You can wear a classic leather belt, but you can also opt for chain or cloth belts with a thin or thick width. The buckle of the belt is important too. It can sometimes represent something personal about you or your style. Some people opt for buckles that have an animal, a luxury brand logo, a shape or even words adorning it. 

“It’s a good way to add a subtle pop of something to the outfit and [it] lessens the feeling of drowning in color,” Vue said. 

4) Boots

Footwear is as important as any other article of clothing. Sneakers are classic footwear. You can wear them with almost any outfit. But if you’re looking for a step up, reach for a pair of boots. This can be anything like combat, knee high, ankle, heeled, slouched and of course Timberlands. You can dress boots down or up. It can be the final touch that an outfit needs to feel complete. 

“[Boots] is what often times brings my outfits together,” Vue said. 

5) Cultural clothing/pieces

For some people, their culture is central to their identity. Fashion can express that. Wearing cultural pieces from your cultural background can be a powerful and meaningful way to enhance your style. Maybe it’s a simple pendant, a scarf, a pattern, symbols, phrases or temporary tattoos, etc. Incorporating this element into your looks can make it more unique to who you are as an individual, while also paying homage to your family and ancestors.