Fashion 15 Accessory Tricks That Will Transform All of Your Simple Summer Outfits When layering is out of the question, look to these styling tips for a quick outfit upgrade. By Samantha Sutton Samantha Sutton Instagram Samantha is InStyle's senior fashion editor. She joined the brand in 2019 and oversees the site's fashion coverage, including trend reporting, fashion exclusives, celebrity style interviews, and Fashion Week coverage. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on July 7, 2022 @ 02:35PM Pin Share Tweet Email There are a handful of reasons why we love summer — beach days, vitamin D, the occasional three-day weekend, etc. — but among our favorites is summer fashion. For a few months, our outfits mostly consist of T-shirts, shorts, coordinating sets, and sundresses, which makes getting dressed for warmer weather feel easier and more carefree than any other time of year. However, without the addition of extra layers, we sometimes get stumped when it comes to making summer outfits seem more interesting. That's where accessories come in. A chain necklace or statement earrings have the ability to transform a plain old tank top into a practically brand new, non-boring look. The same goes for wide-brim hats, crew socks, and colorful bags, all of which add some flair and help us express our personal style in a way that won't make us sweat. Unsure What to Wear to the Office This Summer? Here Are 7 Outfit Ideas From Fashion Experts If you're on a mission to spice up your summer outfits, we've got 17 easy accessory tricks to try, ASAP. These ideas revolve around classic pieces that are likely already part of your collection, so all you need is to throw them on before heading out the door. 01 of 15 Chain Necklaces Getty Images Chunky or thin, layered on or a single, delicate piece, chain necklaces will pop against simple summer outfits, especially if you're wearing neutral colors. RELATED: You're Probably Layering Your Necklaces Wrong 02 of 15 Statement Earrings Getty Images No need to hold back, especially if the rest of your look is somewhat traditional. Big, bold, beaded drop earrings or even hoops will give you a little extra oomph. 03 of 15 White Socks Getty Images While long, white socks still stand out when styled with pants and sweats, they'll really shine against an exposed leg, giving your outfit a slightly preppy twist. 04 of 15 Pearlcore Getty Images You can't go wrong with a sweet strand of pearls, a regal trend that's really taken off in 2022. Rock your necklace solo or add a few chains to mix — whatever suits your own aesthetic. 05 of 15 An Eye-Catching Bag Getty Images If you're headed out to dinner, drinks, or even a day full of activities, choose your purse wisely. A unique shape, prints, or a vibrant color is a quick way to turn your basics into a fashion-forward ensemble. RELATED: Commuting Is Hard Enough — These 6 Work Bags Will Make It That Much Easier 06 of 15 A Big Hat Getty Images If glamour is the goal, slip on a wide-brim, straw hat. Alternatively, a bucket hat will help you nail the Y2K trend. 07 of 15 A Baseball Cap Getty Images Keep sundresses from feeling too fancy with the help of a the ultimate casual and slightly-sporty staple, a baseball cap. RELATED: Luxeleisure Is the Opposite of Being "That Girl" — and That's Exactly Why We Love It 08 of 15 A Scarf Getty Images Although we usually associate scarves with colder weather, a silk option or even a bandana is light enough to wear on warm days. Aside from knotting one around your neck, you can also get creative, wearing this piece as a headband, a belt, or tying it around your purse. 09 of 15 Sunglasses Getty Images It's fine to keep things classic, but if you're hoping for a more playful vibe (or even a throwback spin), reach for geometric shapes and colorful lenses instead. 10 of 15 A Blazer Getty Images Packing an emergency top layer is a must for many — especially if there are plans to chill inside, where the AC may be turned on full blast. Cardigans and sweatshirts are still great solutions, but if you're really looking to pull your outfit together and make it seem luxe, a structured blazer is the go-to. RELATED: 9 Different Types of Blazers Worth Adding to Your Wardrobe 11 of 15 A Vest Getty Images A vest will give you the same benefit of layering minus the sweat. This piece provides that little extra something your look may be missing, while also ensuring you remain cool. 12 of 15 A Bra or Tank Top Getty Images Letting a strappy bra or cami peak out from underneath a dress or shirt — especially if that dress or shirt is see-through — is a quick trick that's not only fun, but practical, too. RELATED: 8 Ways to Wear a Sheer Lace Dress, According to Stylists 13 of 15 A Headband Getty Images Create a uniform, monochromatic look with a coordianting option, or dress up your look with something shiny and embellished. 14 of 15 A Belt Getty Images If you're wearing an oversized sundress, a classic black or brown belt will work to cinch and define your waist. However, the same piece can also toughen up shorts or breezy pants, especially if your bottoms are lighter in color. 15 of 15 A Fanny Pack Getty Images Pull the famous '90s dad style move and rock a fanny pack. It will not only make your summer outfit feel more laid-back and relaxed, but allow you to go hands-free throughout the day.