The beatnik lives. So does the gypsy woman. And the bohemian poet. And the bead-and- buckskin-bedecked Indian maiden.
All these themes are evident in fashion accessories these days. Think of a privileged, peace-minded revolutionary who ran away from her gated community to take up with Ginsberg-quoting activists and you might get a good idea of the look for fall. Our fashion heroine might be sporting homemade love beads, but she’s got a great handbag and terrific shoes.
The accessories for the new season are all about hippie-luxe, according to the Accessories Council, a trade group for the $25 billion accessory business in the United States. That would mean fringe (shawls, belts, bags), folkloric jewels (beaded earrings and chokers, turquoise) and earth tones (suede boots, hand-tooled leather satchels).
“The easiest way to update your look this season is with some hip accessories inspired by the bohemian jet set of the early ’70s,” said Sheila Block, executive director of the Accessories Council. “Wear one key item or layer them all. It’s all about hippie deluxe, and it’s available at every price point.”
It’s easy. A great pair of suede boots will dress up a denim or prairie skirt already in your wardrobe.
Likewise, a fringed handbag or belt will instantly update slacks or a skirt. Layer beads under your peasant blouse and don’t forget colorful, dangly earrings. Now you’ve got the look.
“Make sure to have fun and buy items that work best for your lifestyle,” Block said, “and create your own individual look.”
