Anthea Turner How I See It...
Hello,
Inspired by my trip to Italy, let’s talk accessorising! My favourite fashion film quote courtesy of Olympia Dukakis as Claree Belcher in Steel Magnolias– “What separates us from animals, is our ability to accessorise” – is so true.
In my book HowtoAge Well–TheSecrets we cover this subject. I say we, but it’s my stylist Arabella Boyce from whom I’ve learnt many tricks over the years. She taught me the power of a bright lipstick to brighten my face; that a pair of earrings can va-va-voom a safe outfit; and that with the right shoes we can conquer the world. OK, that might be an exaggeration but I have put some serious work into this particular accessory and the right pair can make a seismic shift to a look.
This season I’ve funked up casual outfits by investing in a pair of bang on trend ankle boots from Anthropology. You might look at them and say,
“Hmm, not sure” but believe me if you like trousers and a half boot, these are not far off and you’ll be surprised how trendy you’ll look.
The Queen and Mrs Thatcher have led the way in power handbagging, Lady Thatcher once told an interviewer,“Of course, I am obstinate in defending our liberties and our law. That is why I carry a big handbag.” She was famous for placing her handbag on tables which said to her opposition I’mherethisismyspace. Don’t we all do this on trains when we don’t want anyone to sit beside us?
I have a handbag for every occasion, from bucket types when rushing around, to the hands-free haversack, sometimes coupled with a cross bag and of course Her Majesty’s classic hand held. My hunting ground is varied, from TK Maxx and second hand shops, to Sarah Haran for multifunctional exquisite investment bags for every purpose. I see accessories as investments, and if you buy wisely, they’ll last you for years, some a lifetime.
VINTAGE & LOVED
Last week we chatted about Mark and I being in Italy sorting out his mother’s home after her death. Emilia was a canny buyer with a good eye, so in my collection I now have vintage earrings, scarves and bags, all bought with thought and love from the ’50s onwards.
I hope when she looks down she’ll be proud her purchases are living on, loved and used. It would be nice to think some of our modern accessory purchases might live to do the same in years to come. Love, Anthea X