I Just Got Back From the South of France—These 5 Accessories Made Every Summer Outfit Look More Expensive

Kaye Bassey is a Who What Wear editor in residence known for her near-decade-long career as a fashion and beauty content creator, influencer, and writer. She recently launched a Substack newsletter, covering trends, outfit ideas, shopping recommendations, and other insider tips.

If you’re looking for ways to spruce up your summer wardrobe and make your outfits just a little more interesting and elegant, you needed to be in the South of France with me last month. A tried-and-true tip is to accessorize more, and the people I saw visiting Monaco and Monte Carlo did just that. The beauty of a great accessory is that it can completely transform an outfit without requiring an entirely new wardrobe. Finding what works and does not work can be challenging. Trust me—I know it is so hard to decide what you want to add to your cart with so many things to pick from. Think of these pieces as the finishing touches that make even the simplest linen dress or white T-shirt and shorts look intentional.

We have a bit more of summer left, so I would imagine it is important to find accessories that you can wear during the summer but also stretch over to fall. The goal isn’t to buy more. It’s to choose smarter pieces that elevate your wardrobe and give you endless styling possibilities. In the vein of investing in the right items for your wardrobe, it’s important that the pieces can stand the test of time and that you can get enough use out of them. Whether you’re heading on a late-summer getaway, enjoying weekends in the city, or simply trying to make the most of warm-weather dressing, these accessories will instantly pull your looks together.

Here are some accessories that you’ll want to get your hands on for the last few moments of summer.

Raffia Bags

People in the South of France basically invented wearing a raffia bag, in the best of ways. There is no bag that screams “summer vacation era” more than a good raffia bag—just ask Jane Birkin. It really captures the essence of summer.

Oversize Sunglasses

I’m so glad that this trend is coming back strong, and it was the perfect item to pack for my trip. There has been a resurgence of the style with tinted lenses and frameless silhouettes—I’m loving it. They feel playful and modern and carry just the right amount of nostalgia.

Statement Bangles

Statement bangles are one of those accessories that instantly make an outfit feel more considered. While they naturally lend themselves to summer styling, they’re equally versatile throughout the rest of the year. Stack several together with a linen dress or sleeveless top during the warmer months, then carry them into autumn by pairing them with knitwear, like an oversize cardigan, and tailored trousers. They’re timeless and endlessly versatile.

Scarves

If there’s one accessory I believe every wardrobe should include, it’s a thoughtfully curated collection of scarves. It can be styled around your neck, tied in your hair, wrapped around your waist, or even worn as a top, offering countless ways to refresh your outfits with minimal effort. Obviously, I was spotting this one on every corner during my trip.

Hair Accessories

A soft summer breeze has given us a reason to hold, clip, and slick our hairstyles back. Hair accessories are becoming more and more popular, as they have the power to instantly elevate a look while remaining timeless. You’ll also never regret packing them.