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Accessories 101: 3 Ways to Style a Bright Top & Denim Shorts

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Bright colors are often criticized as being hard to wear. It’s easy to re-wear the same dark denim jeans, but try to wear your fire engine red pants twice in one week and people will notice! However, it’s important to remember that bright colors can be just as practical as neutrals when accessorized properly.

This week, I’ll show you three ways to completely change the look of a summer staple outfit – a bright top and denim cutoffs – only using accessories.

Look #1: Look at Me Sparkle

How to style a hot pink top with sparkly flats, denim cutoffs, a clutch, a statement necklace and earrings
Product Information: Top, Shorts, Necklace, Earrings, Clutch, Loafers

I love how this outfit has not one, but two statement-making pieces. The pink sweater is the immediate eye-catcher, but skim down the body and you’ll notice a pair of fierce, studded, and sparkling loafers. The cutoff denim shorts and simplicity of the top ensure that this look isn’t too over the top. Such a casual base allows you to rock bold accessories – like a statement necklace and clutch – without seeming overdressed.

Wear this outfit to the movies, lunch, shopping, or girl’s night out. It’s time to put your hair in a cute bun, hold your head high, and wait for the attention to come your sparkling way!

Look #2: Flirty and Playful

How to style a hot pink top with denim cutoffs, basic white sneakers, a chain strap bag, a polka dot headband, sunglasses and a cuff
Product Information: Sunglasses, Purse, Headband, Bracelet, Shoes

Pink, in a word, is girly. So why not embrace that vibe and use this top in a flirty, retro outfit? A polka dot headband in mint green adds charm to this girly look and cat eye sunglasses honor the feminine pin-ups of the past. Simple jewelry and a small bag draw attention to the pink and green color combination. White Keds complete the look, and make this look perfect for playing by the river, swinging on a swing, or strolling through the park.

Look #3: Gladiator-Inspired

How to style a hot pink top with gladiator sandals, cutoff denim shorts, a gold cuff, spiky statement necklace and fringe bag
Product Information: Necklace, Bracelet, Shoes, Backpack

Although pink is usually associated with girly girls, you can also move away from that stereotype by styling it in a bold, funky way. Pair your pink top with a spiky statement necklace and a gold bracelet cuff. Add gladiator-inspired lace-up sandals and top off the look with a drool-worthy fringe leather backpack. This edgy outfit proves that pink is not just for the precious.

Your turn!

As you can see, the accessories truly make the outfit. The right pieces can completely change the vibe of a look, in this case turning pink from girly to glam to playful to fierce.

Now, it’s your turn. What do you think of the outfits featured above? Would you do anything differently? Can you think of other ways to make bright colors as wearable as neutrals? What’s your go-to accessory? Make sure to leave your thoughts below!

Posted on on June 21, 2012 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: , , , , ,

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12 Responses to “Accessories 101: 3 Ways to Style a Bright Top & Denim Shorts”

  1. 1
    June 21st, 2012 at 5:30 pm

    The outfits are really cute. I have many bright tops and sometimes I found myself wearing the same outfits with them. I would totally wear these outfits. Nice post!

  2. 2
    June 21st, 2012 at 5:38 pm

    Gladiator inspired is my favorite!

  3. 3
    June 21st, 2012 at 8:16 pm

    I really like outfits #1 and #2. I can’t decide on a favorite , but I love the green headband in #2 though.

  4. 4
    June 21st, 2012 at 8:35 pm

    is there a better picture of that bun? i want to learn how to do that to my hair!

  5. 5
    June 21st, 2012 at 8:50 pm

    yeah is there a tutorial for that bun? it’s gorgeous.

  6. 6
    June 21st, 2012 at 8:51 pm

    Those Gladiators are my Favourite, I would match them with Outfit #1.

  7. 7
    June 21st, 2012 at 10:56 pm

    Thanks for posting this I just ordered a bright yellow tee and a coral top from delias now I’ll have some outfit ideas =)

  8. 8
    June 22nd, 2012 at 4:34 am

    Hey ladies! I tried to look for the braided bun tutorial, but I found the picture on Pinterest (addicted) and the link only brought me to a larger picture. I found a similar style here: http://www.triplemaxtons.com/search/label/hair
    Good luck styling!

  9. 9
    June 22nd, 2012 at 7:47 am

    That’s a gorgeous and fantastic effort for this latest and informative article.Looking like appreciation.Have a great regards for this great post.

  10. 10
    June 23rd, 2012 at 9:22 pm

    I would like to know where you got that pic of the bun hairstyle! I love it! i want to learn how to do it

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