In my younger years, safety was not a consideration in my fashion choices. I endured shoes that challenged my balance and destroyed my feet, as well as waistbands that crushed my core. Those pieces may have looked amazing, but they felt awful — and I didn’t mind that trade-off.
Those days are long gone, and my feet and core are better for it. To be clear, I didn’t give up on looking amazing. I just realized that safety and style are not mutually exclusive. No matter what your age, looking great shouldn’t be dangerous or uncomfortable. To prove it, here are my top accessory hacks that add comfort and panache to your wardrobe.
Read next: 8 signature accessory ideas for the 40+ fashionista
Jewelry
Retire heavy or irritating metals for titanium or resin.
Cosmetic jewelry made of brass, zinc alloy, and stainless steel can drag down your earlobes and feel heavy on your wrists. Chunky designs with large pendants only amplify this weight. Nickel and its alloys, while not as heavy, can irritate the skin, leading to itchy earlobes or, worse, a rashy ring around your neck.
To keep things light and irritation-free, opt for titanium-based jewelry. Titanium is not only lightweight and hypoallergenic, but also more affordable than precious metals. Resin serves as another lightweight, budget-friendly option, especially for those who appreciate chunky, bold designs. It can make a statement without weighing you down. Just ensure you choose quality brands to avoid any irritation that might arise from improperly cured resin.
Wearable Tech
Wear sleek, stylish tech.
Wearable technology has come a long way since my first running watch, which honestly resembled a house-arrest monitoring device. Today, stylish options abound, from the sleek Oura ring to fashionable Ringly bracelets and chic InvisaWear safety accessories that can send emergency alerts to select contacts. A quick glance at medical alert brands could reveal that they, too, focus on modern aesthetics.
The point is, there’s no need to sacrifice personal safety for style. If you often find yourself in situations where you need extra protection—like walking alone at night, jogging in secluded areas, or hiking—you’ll want wearable tech that’s both functional and fashionable. This way, you can remain stylish without compromising your safety.
Footwear
Lean into loafers and block heels.
Tall, pointy heels and sexy, narrow toe boxes will always hold a special place in my heart. However, there are many other fashionable footwear styles that prioritize comfort without sacrificing aesthetics. Chunky loafers, block heels, and kitten heels are excellent alternatives that provide ease and style.
Consider these proven outfit-and-shoe combos if you’re tired of dealing with blisters and sore feet:
- Slinky evening dress: Strappy block heels.
- Midi skirt: Chunky or platform loafers.
- Wide-leg trousers + blouse: Low block heels.
- Cocktail dress: Kitten heels.
- Maxi dress: Heeled ankle boots.
- Tailored jumpsuit: Block-heel sandals or dressy mules.
- Pencil skirt + fitted top: Low block pumps or structured loafers.
- Dressy jeans + blazer: Platform loafers or heeled boots.
- Wrap dress: Mid-height wedges or block heels.
Read next: Hosiery style tips: How to wear stockings, leggings, and pantyhose
Handbags
Give up the heavy tote for a crossbody bag.
While the large capacity of a tote is undeniably convenient, it can also become cumbersome. A heavy tote can lead to discomfort and struggles finding items quickly, and it can even make you a target in crowded places.
Opt for a well-structured crossbody bag instead. These bags are lighter, and if equipped with a zipper closure, they enhance safety. The straps distribute weight evenly, preventing digging into your shoulder while allowing quick access to essentials without the need to dig into a bag. Plus, they lessen the likelihood of theft due to streamlined design and secure carrying.
Eyewear
Prioritize UV protection, fit, and suitability for the task.
Purchasing ultra-cheap eyewear may strain both your pocketbook and your eyesight. Tinted lenses without UV protection can actually harm your eyes more than wearing no sunglasses at all, allowing harmful rays to penetrate while your pupils are dilated. Heavy frames can lead to headaches from pressure on the nose bridge and ears.
To make smart eyewear choices:
- Choose lenses with 100% UV protection or UV400 ratings.
- Have glasses fitted professionally, especially if you plan to wear them during physical activities.
- Seek out lightweight resin or acetate frames.
- Opt for glare-reducing lenses for driving.
- Consider blue-light filtering if you use glasses for extended periods, especially with screens.
Read next: Classic accessories we all need
Safe and Stylish
It’s high time we let go of the ‘no-pain, no-gain’ beauty mantra. Safety, comfort, and style can coexist harmoniously. Choose lighter materials, more wearable silhouettes, and better-fitting accessories as intentional style choices that enhance your life experience. Because you deserve to navigate each day with confidence and ease.