Dressing Up Your Spring Picks

Are you slightly strapped for cash? No worries. There are plenty of spring accessories to use to improve fit and dress up the simplest of spring clothes. Since I haven't bought any major spring pieces in a while, this is a great hold-me-over trick.

Ann Taylor LOFT

Brooches to Adjust Fit

Use a large brooch to make your shirt fit well. Crimp it on one side or fold it towards the back, and then affix it with a brooch of your choice. Grab a stylish pin on eBay, a homemade one at Etsy, or a cool one at Silhouettes. This is also a good selection for fitting menswear.

Scarves for Hair or Waist

Pick up slim scarves to fashion into belts or hair accessories. Fold one in half and tie it around your natural waist, or knot it into a quick headband as a nice change. I pick up a lot of silk scarves, but I think that cotton versions are far more versatile in terms of wear and tear, as well as appearance.

Buttons

Do you know how to sew on buttons? You're in luck if you do. Get on an auction site or have a root through someone's sewing box to find a pair of clay or Bakelite buttons. Grab an old black dress and switch things up with a new set of buttons that will make any dress look better. Vintage are my personal favorite.

Anklets

A lace-trimmed pair of fold-down socks will make you smile when you're wearing jeans and tennies, and I've found a ton of great pairs at Sock Dreams, one of my favorite places to get hosiery and socks. They've also recently updated their site, which makes it a dream to browse.

Slips and Camisoles

Foundation garments often go on sale, which makes them perfectly affordable for spring-- unlike a quick pick from the mall. Head online to look for slips to give your skirts a great swishy feel, and then drop by camisoles to grab one in a slinky black silk (great for layering and wearing at home!).

Bags with Clip-On Handles

Do you have a satchel with a removable handle? If you don't, now's the time to get one. You'll be able to buy satchel straps that coordinate perfectly with your outfit and clip right on, and that's a lot easier than switching your whole bag every morning.

Any spring looks you love?