Summer 2024 Accessories
I’ve been on a mission to not only be more intentional with purchases for my closet but also with those that I make for the vintage shop. I truly want you to love and wear every piece that you find from me! Spending time styling and wearing the pieces I have available for sale help me feel really confident about what I curate for the collection and why. From my experience in the industry, I’ve learned that just loving a piece and it’s history doesn’t mean it will sell. It also has to make sense for someone’s lifestyle today!
Back in the S&S days, I was so busy with the day to day management of the business that I didn’t spend as much time as I wished researching the industry and being strategic with the purchases. When I launched the new shop under my name here a few years ago, the assortment was only about a quarter of the size it is now! The focus was on the best of the best stuff so the value proposition was so clear for my top clients which are vintage collectors. I’ve grown the collection a lot in the past fews years, expanding into fine jewelry and I’m starting to dabble in blazers now too. With that, I’ve felt the pull to shift into talking more about style as a whole and how accessories really give you an opportunity to add depth to your closet and looks.
When I think about purchases for the shop, I’m starting to apply the same three style filters that I do for my personal style. The classic element is obviously all about iconic Chanel bags and jewelry, as well as timeless leather bags and all the solid gold dainty layering necklaces, rings and earrings. The catchy aspect is covered by the fun seasonal motifs, colors and styles that shift a few times a year,which I’ll be talking about more in this post for Summer 2024. Lastly, comfort is all about feeling polished and practical in your outfits. Having an accessories collection that you love expands your outfit options exponentially!
I know Summer is nearly over but I’m planning to do a post like this seasonally so figured I’d start here since I have a ton of good options in the shop now! When you think about the vision for your Summer accessory lineup, these are the elements I’d consider investing in.
1. Bright Bags
You know I love a good pop of color! If I were to recommend you prioritize any new purchases for your summer accessories collection it would be a colorful bag. Given the time of year, I also prefer a more casual sensibility in style like a crossbody, pochette, slouchy shoulder bag. This year I’ve been all about the bright primary colors with hits of neon. Some of these have already been sold but you can shop all bags here. Next year I think I’ll plan to try some more printed bags (I had a cute little Pucci clutch this year that sold fast) and also some colored straw/raffia bags, Marni comes to mind on that note!
2. Bright Scarf
When the weather warms up the first designer that always comes to mind is Emilio Pucci, I love the traditional kaleidoscope printed scarves and multi colored prints that feel modern….some prints and color ways feel a bit too kitschy for me. I’ve also been into black grounded prints lately that have bright colors. You can shop all vintage scarves here! Next year I think I’ll try to find some more white grounded prints with bright colors as well as some that are more green, blue, purple focused.
3. Light Bag
I notice that I wear a lot of white in the summer months and I naturally want to grab a lighter colored bag when I step out of the apartment. The Gucci Soho bag in the first photo is from my personal collection and I’ve made note of how practical this style and color is. Hope to hunt another down for the shop soon! I don’t have a straw/raffia tote in my own collection but I did notice that I grabbed this YSL tote one to try out for a few weekend occasions so I definitely think this is a style I need to invest in. I adore the dark brown leather straps on it and it’s also the perfect size for a picnic in the park or day trip out of the city. It fits the larger essentials like a big blanket, water bottle, sunscreen and snacks too! The Chanel Chocolate Bar Bag feels more like a going out bag to me while the Gucci Bamboo handle one has a 60’s Palm Springs vibe to me which I love in the summer time because I think this type of style looks so cute with printed dresses and skirts. I did find an unusual YSL white scalloped crossbody bag this year which sold so quickly in my weekly unboxing stories on Instagram. I think there’s a lot of opportunity to expand my offering of light colored bags next year!
4. Seaside Motifs
The bigger the motif, the better in my world! Although I did find some delicate options that were so cute too. Such a thoughtful way to add a little something special to your outfit. These are all by American costume jewelry designers from the 1960s, 70s & 80s but perhaps next year I can dig up some designer options too. YSL has an incredible archive of seaside motifs from the 80s. I did have a special pair of statement shell earrings by Karl Lagerfeld that sold quickly.
5. Colored Beads & Earrings
This may have been one of my favorite categories to shop for this summer! I loved seeing the explosion of colorful beaded necklaces take over my IG feed. The more stacked, the better. The idea inspired me to learn more about precious stones and to find/price them which wasn’t something I knew much about prior to this season. Some stones are so rare! I’ve personally found myself gravitating towards wearing more necklaces recently so I plan to keep this category stocked going into fall. I will probably add some darker colored stones options like jade, tigers eye and jasper. Curious if you like the shorter or longer lengths? I’ve played around with both and like having both options. Next year I also think there’s a big opportunity for me to search around for more colored stone earrings. Totally missed offering that this year!
6. Light Leather Belt
I’ve always wanted a white leather belt! And I actually have one on the way for the shop soon. They’re actually harder to find. In general when you think of lighter fabrics and leathers, you can imagine that they require a bit more care than traditional black and dark brown. I love classic Ferragamo belts like this nude one I have available but what I learned sells the best is a bit more casual. Good note to self! Also this YSL statement belt was from last summer but I do think it’s a good idea to always have a wider belt option like this in your closet to take summer maxi’s to the next level! In general I’m a big fan of belts and this is a category I want to grow in the coming months.
7. Bright Belt
Talk about needed a wide statement belt in your summer collection, I also think you need a skinny mini one too like this eggplant purple Prada one. I’ve been meaning to style her with a dress but I just haven’t found the right one. The LV monogrammed one sold but I do still have the Gucci canvas one available. She’s so unique! Next year I think there’s an opportunity for more solid colored leathers, maybe some LV colored Epi leather! I think a fun belt with a basic tee or sweater really adds a summer element to a foggy San Francisco outfit.
8. Chunky Bangles & Cuffs
Okay, admitting I totally neglected this category this season but I do traditionally love chunky cuffs and bangles with dresses. I’m obsessed with the turquoise/marigold color combo of this Hermès enamel bangle. Would be so cute with a white, navy, black or tan linen getup!
9. Statement Necklaces
I’m delighted that statement necklaces are making a comeback. I’m obsessed with the unique ones I’ve dug up from YSL, Etro and Chanel. When you have some sort of open neckline, these really make the entire outfit feel more YOU! You can shop all statement necklaces here and I promise, more coming soon.
10. Casual Beltbag/Backpack
Curious what you think about belt bags and backpacks? I’ve found that I like to throw on a cute belt bag (love this rare Dior one) to run out for coffee or to the grocery store. And with less layers needed in the summer, backpacks are such a fresh option for park days! I have another LV MM Montsouris backpack coming soon. I always get messages about this style! I tend to go for monogrammed styles here but next year will be a good idea to try some neutrals. Maybe some Prada nylon or Chanel caviar leather options?
