My fashion style has evolved with every era of my life. And when it comes to accessories, I’m all about pieces that elevate an outfit while staying true to my personal style that’s minimal, cute, and cool.

I’ve come a long way from wearing tiny stud earrings as a kid (shout out to Claire’s for my first piercing) and getting an illegally obtained belly button ring at thirteen in LA (I was a little rebel).

Now, at 31, I’ve refined my accessories to four essentials: earrings, press-on nails, purses, and sunglasses.

Earrings

Earrings were my very first accessory and they’ve been a staple ever since. From flower-shaped studs to classic hoops to 70s-inspired dangles, earrings are my go-to for a touch of style to match any mood I'm in.

And having two piercings in each ear levels up my styling game, like pairing dainty bow-tie studs with bold silver hoops.

Earrings were the OG accessory that made me feel like the coolest girl growing up and they’re continuing its legacy as I evolve.

Press-On Nails

Press-on nails are the newest edition to my accessory lineup. I used to go to nail salons often, first acrylics and then Gel-X, but over the years the appointments lessened and press-ons became the move.

They are quick, affordable, and much less damaging to my nails. They may not last as long as a salon set, but they give my nails time to breathe between styles.

Since I’m still new to the press-on game, I’ve been trying different brands to see which ones hold up and actually look cute. So far, Olive and June and Nail Reformation are my top picks because they are comfortable, natural-looking, and cute.

Nothing is cooler than having fabulous nails that are convenient and budget-friendly.

Purses

Purses are the perfect blend of style and function. They carry all the essentials like my phone, wallet, keys, lip gloss, sanitary products, hair ties, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and whatever else I need to survive the day.

My preferred styles are hobo bags and shoulder purses. Hobo bags have a slouchy, flexible silhouette I love and shoulder purses are the perfect size to grab and go when I’m in a rush. I gravitate toward minimalist designs (less is more!) in earthy or neutral tones and sometimes I’ll throw in a pastel color if I’m feeling playful.

A purse is the best practical cool-girl accessory. It allows me to stay prepared while I’m out and about doing cool-girl things like going to concerts, thrifting, or trying new food spots.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are the number one accessory that instantly makes me feel cool. It all started with Audrey Hepburn’s iconic, black Manhattan frames in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961).

There’s something about wearing dark shades that hide my eyes that create a mysterious aura. Whether it’s Hepburn’s frames or Ray Ban Wayfarers, as long as they’re black they deliver chic, classy, and cool.

Sunglasses are the ultimate cool-girl accessory and I refuse to leave the house without them, even when the sun isn’t shining.

My Cool-Girl Accessories

Earrings

Press-On Nails

Purses

Sunglasses

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