One-of-a-Kind Styling

‘The secret to one-of-a-kind styling is to take normal, everyday items and give them a new lease on life,’ agrees Durban-based stylist, Pippa Lynch. Ultimately, she adds, the best way of getting unique accessories for your wardrobe is to make them yourself.

From scarves and hats to jewellery and gloves, here are some great winter accessory suggestions for you to try.
• ‘Lost some pieces from your Monopoly or Scrabble sets? Instead of throwing old board games away, use these trinkets to make cute earrings, necklaces or charms for bracelets,’ suggests Lynch.
• ‘Winter scarves don’t necessarily have to be drab and boring,’ says COSMO fashion assistant, Nathirah Isaacs. Instead of wearing a normal, plain scarf, why not add pom poms to the ends. However, if you’d prefer to simply buy a scarf, she adds, go for bright colours or choose a scarf with pockets.
• And then you could use your scarf as a belt, suggests Lynch.
• ‘Beanies can be creative too,’ says Isaacs. Add sequins, badges, or even knit one to add your own signature style to it.
• Make brooches from toys, such as a piece of Lego or a toy car, says Lynch. Putting a clasp on the back makes for a statement piece you know no one else will have.
• ‘Add a vintage brooch to your hats or tie a satin ribbon around your hat to update it,’ suggests Lynch.
• Cut the ends of your favourite gloves off and make them fingerless, says Isaacs.
• Make your own hair-pieces, says Lynch. Take a piece of ribbon or an elastic and measure it around your head before cutting it to the desired length, she says. After sewing the ends together, she adds, sew buttons or flowers to your new hair-piece too for an added feature.
• Wear your leg warmers with brogues, over skinnies or with leggings, says Isaacs. Instead of keeping it black like everyone else, choose colours to make a statement.
• Don’t forget about thigh-high socks and stockings, she says. Keep them bright and pair them with boots and an oh-so-micro-mini for an updated winter look, she adds.

A DIY SHOPPING LIST
If you can’t take find anything inspiring lying around your home, says Lynch, here is a shopping list to get you started on your styling mission:
• A glue gun
• Brooch clasps
• Jewellery clasps
• Small nose pliers
• A sewing kit
• Ribbons, lace, elastic, buttons and fabric

If you need further inspiration, suggests Lynch, visit P.S. – I Made This… for tips on how to make your own pieces and add a personal touch to items you already have.

Author: Lindi Brownell