Timeless Fashion Accessories That Never Go Out of Style

Trends come and go at speed, but a handful of accessories have stayed in steady use for generations. They survive because they are practical, flattering and adaptable: each works with jeans as well as tailoring. Investing in a few of them, and choosing them carefully, gives a wardrobe a stable base that newer pieces can play off.

A classic watch

Wristwatches became widespread in the early twentieth century, and simple designs from that period still look current. The most versatile style has a clean dial, clear markers and a case of moderate size on a leather strap or metal bracelet. Choose a case that suits your wrist: it should not overhang the edges. Leather straps can be swapped seasonally, and a mechanical watch can be serviced and kept for decades.

Pearls

Pearls have been prized for centuries, and cultured pearls made them far more accessible during the twentieth century. A single strand or a pair of pearl studs suits formal occasions but looks just as good with a white T-shirt or a knit. For a modern feel, try one baroque (irregularly shaped) pearl on a fine chain, or mix pearls with gold. Put pearls on after perfume and hairspray, and wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing, as chemicals can dull their surface.

Gold hoops and simple studs

Hoop earrings appear in jewellery from many ancient cultures and have never truly disappeared. A medium hoop in gold or silver works almost everywhere; small huggies are ideal for everyday wear, larger hoops for evenings. Simple studs, whether diamond, lab-grown stone, pearl or plain metal, are the other essential. If you have sensitive ears, look for solid gold, platinum or titanium rather than plated base metals.

A well-made leather bag

A structured leather tote or top-handle bag in a neutral colour such as black, tan, cognac or burgundy carries you from work to dinner. Look for full-grain or top-grain leather, neat and even stitching, sturdy hardware and a shape that sits well on your shoulder. Condition the leather occasionally, stuff the bag with paper when stored, and keep it in a dust bag to preserve the shape. A small crossbody or clutch in a similar tone is a useful second piece.

A silk scarf

The printed silk square became a luxury staple in the twentieth century, with Hermès introducing its famous carré in 1937. A silk scarf is endlessly adaptable: knotted at the neck, tied through a bag handle, worn as a headband, or folded as a belt. Choose a print that includes one or two colours you already wear, and hand-wash or dry-clean it to protect the silk.

Classic sunglasses

Two frame styles have lasted better than any others. Aviators, with their teardrop lenses and thin metal frames, were originally developed for pilots in the 1930s. The thicker, trapezoid-shaped acetate frame popularised by the Ray-Ban Wayfarer in the 1950s remains another enduring shape. Round and cat-eye frames also return regularly. Beyond style, sunglasses should offer full UV protection; look for a UV400 or equivalent label.

A quality leather belt

A plain leather belt with a simple buckle is one of the most useful pieces a wardrobe can have. It finishes trousers and jeans and can define the waist over a dress or long coat. Choose a width that fits your trouser loops, and pick a buckle in the same metal as your other jewellery. Black and brown cover most needs.

Signet rings and simple gold chains

Signet rings were once used to press a seal into wax and have been worn for many centuries. Today they are worn plain, engraved with initials or stacked with finer bands. A fine gold chain, alone or layered with a pendant, adds polish to an open collar or a simple neckline.

Leather gloves and a classic hat

Unlined or cashmere-lined leather gloves have been a practical cold-weather accessory for generations and add polish to a winter coat. For hats, the wide-brimmed fedora, the straw Panama (which is made in Ecuador despite its name) and the wool beret have all stayed in circulation because they are simple, practical and flattering.

How to choose accessories that last

• Prioritise materials. Solid metals, real leather, silk and good acetate age well; plated metals and coated fabrics tend to wear quickly.
• Choose restrained design. Clean shapes and a limited number of logos date more slowly.
• Consider your palette. Match metals to your skin tone and to each other, and choose leather colours that work with your main neutrals.
• Buy secondhand. Vintage watches, bags, scarves and jewellery are often well made and can be better value than new.
• Look after them. Clean jewellery gently, service watches, condition leather and store everything away from sun and damp.

A small set of well-chosen classics makes getting dressed easier. Add seasonal pieces around them, and let these long-standing favourites carry the rest.