You know that moment when you've got your outfit sorted – perfectly lovely, completely appropriate – but something's missing? It's like the outfit equivalent of a cup of tea without the biscuit. Technically fine, but not quite there.

That's where statement accessories come in, and I promise you, they're not nearly as scary as they sound.

As someone who works with brilliant, professional women like you every day, I see it all the time: you've mastered the basics, your wardrobe's full of quality pieces, but you're hesitant to add that final flourish that says "yes, I'm professional, but I'm also interesting and fabulous."

Here's the truth: statement accessories aren't about being loud or attention-seeking. They're about expressing your personality and adding that little spark of joy to your everyday dressing. And the best part? Once you understand how to use them, they make getting dressed so much more fun.

Bold Jewellery (And Why You Shouldn't Be Scared of It)

Statement jewellery – those chunky necklaces, oversized earrings, or gorgeous bold bangles – can genuinely transform a simple outfit into something memorable. But I know what you're thinking: "That's not really me, is it? I'm a bit old for all that?"

Absolutely not. In fact, women over 40 wear statement jewellery better than anyone else because you've got the confidence to carry it off.

For Work (Where You Still Want to Look Like You Mean Business)

The secret is balance. If you're wearing a larger piece – say, a statement earring & bangles – keep your clothing simple and streamlined. Think sleek blouse, tailored trousers (or shorts!) and complementary colours throughout. Let the jewellery be the star of the show.

I always suggest sticking with gold or silver tones in professional settings – they feel polished and intentional rather than costume-y. A beautiful gold cuff with your navy blazer? Perfection. Oversized silver hoops with a crisp white dress? Absolutely stunning.

And here's a little insider tip: if you're wearing statement earrings, skip the necklace, or wear the matching piece. One bold piece at a time is elegant; too many competing pieces can feel chaotic. You want people focusing on what you're saying, not trying to take inventory of your jewellery collection.

For Weekends (When You Can Be Properly Playful)

This is where you can have some real fun! Casual wear is your playground for experimenting with colours, textures, and pieces that make you smile.

Try pairing chunky, colourful jewellery with a simple tee and jeans – it instantly elevates the whole look from "I've given up" to "I know exactly what I'm doing." A bold green and blue pair of earrings, gold necklace with an on-trend orange co-ord? Gorgeous. Stacked bangles in mixed metals with a casual dress? Yes please.

The beauty of statement jewellery with casual outfits is that there are really no rules. If it makes you feel fabulous, wear it. If it sparks joy when you put it on, that's all the permission you need.

The Magic of a Colourful Scarf (Your Secret Weapon)

Oh, I could write love letters to scarves. They're possibly the most versatile accessory you can own – they add style, warmth, and personality all at once. Plus, if you're having a bit of a rubbish hair day or feeling a bit "meh" about your outfit, a gorgeous scarf fixes everything.

At the Office (Sophistication in Silk)

For work, a silk scarf is absolutely transformative. Choose one in a sophisticated print or a bold colour that complements your personal colour palette, and use it to bring life to neutral outfits.

That black blazer you wear every week? Suddenly looks completely different with a jewel-toned scarf at the neck or draped over your shoulders. Grey trousers feeling a bit dull? Add a patterned scarf and everything changes.

The key with silk scarves at work is to keep them looking intentional, not accidental. Learn a couple of classic tying methods – the Parisian knot is my favourite for effortless chic – and practise them until they feel natural. There are loads of brilliant tutorials online if you need them.

For Casual Days (When Comfort Meets Style)

This is where chunky knitted scarves and vibrant patterns come into play. A cosy oversized scarf in autumn colours adds texture and warmth to any casual outfit – jeans, jumpers, even athleisure if we're being honest.

Don't be afraid of prints and patterns here. A leopard print scarf is surprisingly neutral and goes with almost everything. Bright florals can lift your mood on grey British days. Even a bold stripe can add interest to an otherwise simple outfit.

And here's something lovely: scarves are brilliant if you're conscious about your neck area. They draw the eye exactly where you want it whilst providing a bit of coverage if that makes you feel more comfortable.

Your Statement Bag (Because Functional Can Be Fabulous Too)

Let's be real: at this stage of life, your bag needs to actually work. It needs to hold your laptop, your diary, your emergency snacks, possibly your teenager's forgotten PE kit. But why should functionality mean boring?

The Professional Power Bag

For work, you want a structured bag in a shape that stands up to daily use. But here's where we can have fun: it doesn't have to be black. It really doesn't.

A rich navy, a sophisticated burgundy, even a gorgeous forest green – these colours are just as professional as black but so much more interesting. They show that you've put thought into your appearance, that you care about the details.

Look for clean lines and quality materials. A large, elegant tote in beautiful leather will hold everything you need whilst adding real sophistication to your look. And please, make sure it has proper compartments. Life's too short to be fishing around for your keys at the bottom of your bag whilst everyone waits.

The Weekend Wonder

For casual outings, this is your chance to express more personality. A vibrant coloured bag, a gorgeous print, interesting hardware – all fair game.

A crossbody bag gives you that hands-free ease for shopping or meeting friends for coffee. A slouchy hobo bag creates that relaxed, chic vibe that says "I'm off duty but I still look fabulous." Even a small statement clutch for evening drinks can add that perfect finishing touch.

Don't feel pressured to match your bag to your shoes, think about complementary colours or using your bag as your statement piece against more neutral clothing.

Footwear That Speaks Volumes (But Doesn't Make You Hobble)

Right, shoes. This is where practicality and style need to have a serious conversation, because gorgeous shoes that hurt are not worth it. I don't care how stunning they are.

Professional Shoes That Work All Day

For your working wardrobe, invest in classic styles that you can actually walk in. Proper investment pieces that make you feel confident without destroying your feet by 2pm.

Classic heels (block heels are your friend here), knee high boots, elegant loafers, or pointed flats – these are your foundation pieces. A sleek pair of black or nude pumps will genuinely never go out of style. Navy is also brilliant if you wear a lot of blue tones.

But here's the thing about "statement" work shoes: the statement can be in the quality and fit rather than wild colours or dramatic designs. Beautiful Italian leather, perfect proportions for your feet, a heel height you can manage all day – that's a statement in itself. It says "I value quality and I know what works for me."

Casual Statement Shoes (Where Fun Happens)

This is where you can really play. Bold coloured trainers with your jeans, striking ankle boots with your midi skirt, interesting flats that make people ask "where did you get those?"

Statement casual shoes work beautifully because they're unexpected. That pop of colour from your trainers adds personality to an otherwise simple outfit. Those gorgeous patterned flats transform a basic dress into something special.

The trick is to keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple when your shoes are doing the talking. Let them be the star – they've earned it.

And Don't Forget Your Sunglasses (Practical Glamour)

A stylish pair of sunglasses is honestly one of the best investments you can make. They're practical (protecting your eyes and all that), but they're also instantly chic.

For Professional Polish

In work settings – or when you're heading to and from the office – classic frames in neutral colours work beautifully. Black, tortoiseshell, or metallic finishes are timeless and complement everything from your business attire to your weekend wear.

The key is finding a shape that flatters your face. If you've got a rounder face, angular frames add definition. Square face? Try rounded or cat-eye styles to soften your features. Oval faces (lucky you) can wear pretty much anything.

Good quality sunglasses are worth every penny. They protect your eyes properly, they don't break after two weeks, and they make you feel like you've got your act together even if you're running on four hours sleep.

For Casual Confidence

For more relaxed settings, don't hesitate to go for bold, oversized frames or unique shapes that express your personal style. This is your moment to channel your inner Italian movie star.

Coloured lenses, interesting frames, vintage-inspired shapes – they all add personality whilst keeping you protected from the sun. And here's a lovely bonus: a great pair of sunglasses can make you feel more confident on days when you're not feeling your best. They're like stylish armour.

Here's What It All Really Comes Down To

Statement accessories aren't about following rules or wearing what fashion magazines tell you is "in" this season. They're about finding pieces that make you feel more like yourself – more confident, more interesting, more you.

The beautiful thing about accessories is that they're low-commitment ways to experiment with your style. Don't like bold earrings after all? Pop them in a drawer. Scarf not working? Try a different way of wearing it. Compared to buying a whole new wardrobe, accessories let you play without the pressure.

Start with one piece that genuinely excites you. Maybe it's a gorgeous scarf in colours that make your eyes sparkle, or a pair of earrings that make you smile every time you put them on. Wear it, see how it makes you feel, and build from there.

Because here's the truth: you've earned the right to dress in a way that brings you joy. You've worked hard, you've achieved so much, and if a pair of fabulous earrings or a gorgeous bag makes you feel more confident and happy, that's reason enough.

Your style should support you, celebrate you, and make getting dressed something you look forward to rather than another task to tick off. Statement accessories are just one more tool to help you feel absolutely fabulous every single day.

Ready to discover which accessories will work best for your colouring, your style personality, and your lifestyle? I'd love to help you find your perfect statement pieces – the ones that'll make you feel like the brilliant, confident woman you are.

Because you deserve to feel radiant, darling. Every single day.