The wearing vs. styling narrative has officially taken over the internet’s fashion corners – for good reason, too. From chic French tucks to looping on belts for waist definition, we’ve seen all the classics and taken our notes. What we’ve yet to see, however? Someone to actually tell you how to adopt styling as a way of thinking. Let us explain: you’re given the nifty tips and tricks, but when’s the last time you felt creatively inspired on your account?
Have you reached for your scarves and belts in a visionary moment of your own or just moodboard outfits to recreate in a safe Instagram stash (no shame here, diva; been there, done that). Whether this serves as an exploratory guide to developing that sixth sense or just maps out more tricks for you to try your hand at, Cosmo ME’s here for it anyhow. From truly cosmopolitan inspo to MENA Pinterest lords, here’s accessormaxxing done right:
Let’s talk scarves
In the world of patterned silks, possibilities feel seemingly endless. From the tried-and-true, like makeshift tops to freeform purses, the versatile piece helps add an element of visual interest to an otherwise safe fit. Cosmo’s favourites? A belt, whether it be cinched or draped. Even spun as a crossbody strap for your cute purses tbh. It’s creative, it’s playful, and it screams Summer. Anyone as excited as we are?
Shop (till you drop): Lumena Maison.
Beads as back chains or belts
This is speakeasy-chic, older-sister-coded. It’s elevated, plays on dimension, and is tastefully culturally inspired in a way that doesn’t feel gaudy or tacky. Imagine a backless moment with a peekaboo detail like that. UGH, major. Think runway class goes aesthetically explorative, however you see fit. Not the statement piece for you? Try it as a dainty belt contrasting a maxi skirt and thank us later then.
Shop (till you drop): 1309 Studios.
Schiaparelli neck moment
Welcome to the designer realm, where Schiaparelli has positioned itself at the cusp of revolutionary brilliance. In the Maison’s Fall/Winter 2026-2027 Ready to Wear Collection, Daniel Roseberry’s ‘The Sphynx’ runway look proved exactly that. Seemingly so simple yet ingenious all the same, Marie Chaix’s fabric styling posed as the neckscarf’s cooler cousin. The necklace on top is actually mandatory. Slightly slanted, too. No debate.
Shop (till you drop): Your local tailor.
Earrings as embellishments
The viral trend has taken the likes of TikTok and Instagram by storm, and we honestly understand why. Taking a seemingly set piece functionally like an earring and using it as a decorative cuff, impromptu borche, or practical clip for tops and layering pieces alike is exactly the point. None of the elements in this listing started off being something extraordinary until someone looked at them differently. Be that someone, diva.
Shop (till you drop): Probably your closet.
Doilies for layering
It’s time to ransack your grandma’s cookie tin. Yes, the one with all the knitting needles and pins. And yes, legend has it there were cookies inside once upon a time. From roping in texture to dabbling in shade play, crocheted elements like doilies and soft knits give the perfect leeway space for you to experiment with layers that bring depth to an outfit. Think visual interest (looking cool) intersecting with storytelling through fashion (being cool).
Shop (till you drop): Teta’s.
Neckties gone maximalist
Your décolletage is an under-explored area in fashion styling, and we’re here to change that. Let’s talk options: Perhaps a bolero necklace peaking out from underneath a bandana neck scarf? Colour coordination really brings things together here. Possibly a neckscarf looped together with a ring? Slanted, again. It just works. Even a necktie with a brooch centred on the knot? Just fab. A necklace spiralled around it, too, would be just killer.
Shop (till you drop): Almah Official.
An earring or bangle-play on cuffs
Here’s the brief: bell sleeves (preferably chiffon), a chunky wooden bangle (think something Isabel Marant-inspired with a gemstone), and bedazzled cuff links (rowed together like buttons) in the form of earrings! Or, alternatively, replace a fabric cuff altogether with a statement cuff bracelet instead. It’s a feminine spin on an otherwise stereotypically masculine accessory, has an allure of its own, and is an intentional touch.
Shop (till you drop): Rainbow K.
Neckties or bag straps as belts
Oftentimes, whenever anyone says, “think of your pieces differently,” they usually mean: style them as layering/utilitarian pieces. What does that mean? Essentially a play on versatility. Trust Comso when we say your “I don’t know what to wear” items can have a second life if you let them. Belts, for example, are the play space for this. By looping a necktie or purse strap, you could go elevated or channel rockstar girlfriend energy. ❤️🔥
Belt your top… wait, did we say that right?
Is this technically a cheat code? Maybe. With this creative choice, dimension, flirting with the unexpected, and definition all come alight to create something high-end, curated, and, honestly? Daring to be interesting. It’s little touches like these that show intention while still feeling organically experimental and personable at the same time. The common ground between all cool girls? They have their signatures. Play around and find yours!
Check out Cosmo ME’s guide for the best munch and yap spots in the UAE next.