Posted on 19th Sep 2011 @ 9:00 PM

Accessories embellish any outfit, and a formal evening is the perfect occasion to go to town. From amber to zircon, hats to hose, scarves and shawls to shoes and slip-ons, consider the occasion and the season.

• 1

  Accessorize one (or all) of your most visible areas: neck, wrists and shoulders.

• 2

  Think seriously about costume jewelry and faux gems; they are relatively inexpensive and readily accessible at department stores and secondhand boutiques.

• 3

  Evaluate your formal outfit carefully: Is it simple and elegant or fancy and froufrou? (Remember that a hot pink feather boa will be a showstopper at a ball but will merely attract stares at a college graduation.)

• 4

  Ponder the notion that less is usually more ... and almost always suffices.

Jewelry

• 1

  Choose a matching bracelet and necklace.

• 2

  Get real, cultured or faux pearls and wear them anywhere.

• 3

  Wear a tennis bracelet - such as a single strand of diamonds - for a dramatic look. Or consider an evening watch instead of a bracelet.

• 4

  Try elegant pearl or diamond studs for your ears. Vintage clip-ons or exotic dangling earrings could also work.

• 5

  Adorn your hair with sparkling clips, tortoiseshell barrettes, a diamond tiara or even a fresh gardenia.

• 6

  Find a ring that complements your other jewelry.

Shoes, Shawls and Silk Purses

• 1

  Put on your fancy shoes, no matter how elegant or frivolous, but be sure they are comfortable enough to dance the night away.

• 2

  Choose stockings in a neutral palette. If you want hose with a design, make it subtle.

• 3

  Go with gloves to the opera, a debutante ball or the Ascot races.

• 4

  Toss a shawl around your shoulders; make sure it goes with your outfit in terms of color and texture.

• 5

  Try a lace mantilla or a vintage smoking jacket for "a look" or for warmth.

• 6

  Carry an evening purse or a beaded bag large enough to hold business cards, keys, cash and lip gloss.