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The 7 Accessories Every Woman Over 30 Should Own, According to a Stylist

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Whether you’re gearing up for the big 3-0, or you’re well into your late thirties, there’s no better time to prove that just like wine, your style only gets finer with time. But sometimes you just need a little help when it comes to achieving sartorial success. Which is why we asked wardrobe stylist Stacee Michelle to share her tips on the must-have accessories for women over 30. From splurge-worthy handbags to timeless jewelry, these seven accoutrements will not only elevate your style, but they’ll also satisfy your need for practicality.

10 Pieces of Clothing Every Woman Over 30 Should Own


accessories to own by 30 a functional crossbody bag
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

1. A Functional Crossbody Bag

“Multi-tasking is a 30-something woman's superpower,” notes Michelle. That explains why a crossbody is a must, whether you’re slinging it on while running errands or pairing it with your favorite heels for a night out. Our personal favorite take on the classic? Scoring a hands-free bag with internal compartments that will maximize space without compromising style.

Save: Mali + Lili ($58); Treasure & Bond ($99; $60); Madewell ($88); Dagne Dover ($145; $89); Ralph Lauren ($150; $90)

Splurge: Tory Burch ($248); Zac Zac Posen ($295); See by Chloe ($470); A.P.C. ($595); Saint Laurent ($1,190)

accessories to own by 30 a silky bandana
Hanna Lassen/Getty Images

2. A Silky Bandana

It’s a neckerchief…it’s a headscarf…it’s a purse ornament! However you choose to style it (and whatever fun print you go for) the silk bandana serves as the one accessory you can tie anywhere, with almost any outfit. Michelle suggests looping it once around your neck or twice around your wrist for a modern yet elegant touch. For an very 2020 spin on your ordinary jeans-and-a-tee ensemble, take a page out of Audrey Hepburn’s style book and tie it loosely over your head—and don’t forget to add a pair of cat eye sunglasses.

Save: Fonyve ($15); Madewell ($25; $17); WeWoreWhat ($35); Kate Spade ($48); Ralph Lauren ($58)

Splurge: Burberry ($170); Diane von Furstenberg ($198); Alexander McQueen ($345); Givenchy ($370); Dries Van Noten ($390)

accessories to own by 30 fresh white sneakers
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

3. Fresh White Sneakers

“Your thirties teach you not to sacrifice comfort for style, so a white sneaker can be the most versatile shoe in your closet. It’s a simple way to look chic without any hassle,” claims Michelle. Pick leather or canvas—the material doesn’t matter—so long as you have fun wearing yours with dresses, skirts, jeans and trousers. These shoes are chameleons, meaning they go with everything and anything in your closet. Just make sure to keep yours clean.

Save: Vans ($50); Adidas ($90; $60); Converse ($75); Puma ($90); Sam Edelman ($100)

Splurge: Nike ($170); Vince ($250); Chloé ($495); Valentino ($695); Prada ($750)

accessories to own by 30 a dainty necklace
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

4. A Dainty Necklace

Whether you wear a pendant solo to adorn a plain top or prefer to layer a teeny chain with a chunkier chain, a dainty necklace is a fashion must-have. Pro tip: void purchasing any jewelry containing copper, as it’s commonly associated with temporary discoloration of the skin. “Invest a little more upfront for a simple necklace design that you can wear for years to come,” Michelle suggests.

Save: Kendra Scott ($50); Nordstrom ($55); Kate Spade ($60); Jenny Bird ($75); Joy Dravecky ($80)

Splurge: Monica Vinader ($175); Jennifer Zeuner ($198); ILA ($650); Jane Taylor ($1,485); Roberto Coin ($1,500)

accessories to own by 30 cat
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

5. A Pair Of Hoop Earrings

Contrary to popular belief, hoop earrings are not one-size-fits-all. “Shop for a pair that complements the shape of your face and don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes such as tear-drop or oval,” our expert advises. Whether you opt for a minimalist gold pair or a statement-making diamond-studded design, hoops can be worn with a T-shirt and a ballgown. Remember what we said about multitasking? Yeah, we like it for all of our add-ons.

Save: Madewell ($24); AllSaints ($44; $31); BaubleBar ($42); 8 Other Reasons ($66); Jenny Bird ($85)

Splurge: Set & Stones ($105); Missoma ($149); Jennifer Behr ($140); Lana Jewelry ($1,380); Roberto Coin ($2,100)

accessories to own by 30 designer shades
Kirstin Sinclair

6. A Go-to Pair Of Designer Frames

Now that you’re older (and obviously more responsible), it’s time to toss those mall kiosk sunglasses and treat yourself to some designer frames. “They’ll give you the confidence boost you’re looking for as you enter your thirties” says Michelle. If you’re not quite ready to invest in a designer handbag, sunnies are a great way to test the waters of luxury goods. Not to mention, they’ll hide your under-eye bags if you had one too many tequilas the night before (see, you’re not that responsible).

Save: Lele Sadoughi ($165; $66); Marc Jacobs ($120; $72); Rag & Bone ($225; $90); Tory Burch ($181; $91) Kate Spade ($160; $96)

Splurge: Ray-Ban ($154); Dior ($495; $347); Gucci ($375); Bottega Veneta ($440); Tom Ford ($495)

accessories to own by 30 flat brimmed hat
Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

7. A Flat-brimmed Hat

You don’t have to be suffering through a bad hair day to reap the benefits of a flat-brimmed hat. While most women flinch at the mention of fashion-forward headgear, this piece is guaranteed to add flair whether it’s the dead of winter or halfway through summer. “Like clothing, accessories are most flattering when they fit properly—so hats are no exception,” shares Stacee. “Try on different styles to find the best fit for the shape of your face.” Sporting a topper takes confidence; but now that you’re in your thirties, there’s no better time than the present.

Save: Lisianthus Fedora Hat ($17); Jelord Wool Fedora ($36); Roxy ($36); San Diego Hat ($45); Brixton ($59)

Splurge: Janessa Leone ($230); Bijou Van Ness ($325); Eugenia Kim ($435); Eugenia Kim ($515); Maison Michel ($710)