Spring Accessories 2013: Highlights from the S/S Runways

Spring has almost sprung, so

we’re looking ahead to the style trends we expect to see in stores come the new fashion season. Looking to the S/S 2013 runway collections, there are plenty of new accessories trends on the way. Everything from headwear to footwear has been given an overhaul, with jewellery undergoing the biggest transformation.

The new look is bold and chunky, with lots of futuristic clear plastic and high-shine metal on the cards. So if you’re looking for some inspiration, these catwalk highlights are sure to give you some ideas for putting those perfect finishing touches to your spring wardrobe.

Heavy metal

Marking a move towards chunkier accessories this season, heavy metal cuffs, rings, earrings and collars made a serious statement on the S/S runways. Givenchy gave their collection a futuristic vibe with a series of thick metal chokers, gold was used to bold effect to accentuate the minimalist feel at Balenciaga, while Dries Van Noten’s line of heavily sculpted collar necklaces proved that this is a strong trend for spring. Easy to work into any outfit, the simplest way is to slip a heavy metal ring on that finger, like this Daughter of David armour ring from BANK Fashion.

Headbands

Gossip Girl’s mini fashionistas might be slaves to the whims of the fashion world, but this year the tables have turned. When it comes to headwear, designers seem to have found some serious inspiration in Ms. Waldorf et al, filling their spring collections with headbands galore. It’s a deliciously feminine accessory that’s just right for spring, and as versatile as it gets. That means is easy to work into your wardrobe, and to fit around your own personal style. Fabulous fedoras

Anyone doubting the power of accessories just needs to take a look at the Saint Laurent S/S show. New director Hedi Slimane made his mark, not just by changing the name of one of the world’s most illustrious fashion houses, but by topping off his entire debut collection for the label with a series of to-die-for oversized fedoras. In one fell swoop, the hat for spring was born. AF Vandevorst opted for fedoras too, keeping things pared back with sheer materials, and with that all-important jaunty angle. So if you’re looking for a chic way to get some shade this season, make it a fedora – the wider the brim the better.

Transparency

One of the watchwords for accessories this spring, transparent plastics were a major theme running through jewellery, purse and footwear collections. An incredibly versatile material, plastic allowed designers to play with shapes, aesthetics and colour, all the while keeping things see through. Gucci went for tough transparent clutches, Fendi added see through splashes to their op-art totes, and Givenchy enhanced the futurism once more with transparent chokers. If you’re not comfortable showing off the contents of your handbag, you can work in the trend using chunky plastic jewellery, or look out for transparent heels and uppers on this season’s must-have heels and flats.