NYFW SS15: The 114 Must-See Accessories That Defined Street Style

Explore the season's boldest, brightest, and most stylish accessories rocked by New York Fashion Week SS15's street style stars.

By Medha deb
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114 Accessories That Made NYFW SS15 Street Style Unmissable

New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015 was a showcase not only for designers’ runways but also for the creativity and flair of real-world style icons. This season, the streets became the ultimate runway, where statement accessories reigned supreme. From dazzling bags and oversized sunglasses to bold jewelry and playful headwear, fashion lovers proved that the right finishing touch can elevate any look to new heights. Here we break down the most memorable accessory moments from NYFW SS15, covering every core trend and must-have item seen among It-girls, editors, and stylists.

Bags: Oversized, Playful, and Covetable

Bags at NYFW SS15 were all about making a statement. Whether combining classic luxury with playful twists or opting for ultra-modern minimalism, fashion insiders showcased the versatility of this season’s must-have carry-alls.

  • HUGE Chanel Bags: Oversized logo-embellished Chanel handbags were spotted throughout the week, commanding attention and adding instant polish to everything from feminine plaits to sporty separates.
  • Statement Clutches: Slogan clutches and graphic box bags added witty punctuation to monochrome looks and polka dot ensembles.
  • Animal Print Totes: Large totes decked in animal prints became the chosen companion for autumn looks, confirming the trend’s ongoing dominance.
  • Metallic Shoppers: Metallic silver bags paired seamlessly with fluorescent socks and trainers, proving that function and flash can beautifully coexist.

Jewelry: Maximalism, Body Bijoux, and Oversized Statements

This season, jewelry was a focal point, with maximalist tendencies eclipsing the understated. Trendsetters stacked bold pieces to create looks as individual as the wearer.

  • Oversized Earrings: Shoulder-grazing earrings in floral motifs and large pearls livened up neutral outfits and simple dresses, acting as the definitive accessory of NYFW SS15.
  • Chunky Chokers: The return of maxed-out chokers – think diamond-studded or chain link – offered the perfect way to dress up a toned-down shirt or tired ensemble.
  • Body Jewelry: Body harnesses and diamante bustiers, reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe’s iconic style, created fresh layering options and turned street style into new territory for jewelry placement.

Sunglasses: Shield Your Eyes, Up Your Game

Eyewear at NYFW SS15 was less about function and more about defining the personality of a look. The choices ranged from classic to futuristic, each reflecting a unique sense of style.

  • Classic Cat-Eyes: Sleek black frames provided a subtle nod to retro glamour and instantly elevated day-to-night looks.
  • Futuristic Shield Shades: Street style stars sported exaggerated plastic shields and mirrored lenses, underscoring their brave approach to sartorial experimentation.
  • Colored Frames: Sunglasses with bright acetate frames made bold color statements and were used to tie together the most eclectic outfits.

Hats: Make a Statement From the Top Down

Headwear added dimension and personality to street style outfits, punctuating looks with playful confidence.

  • Berets: While berets are traditionally associated with Paris, several fashionistas adapted the style for NYFW, giving monochrome ensembles a quirky twist.
  • Boho Headbands: Soft, floaty boho-chic headbands worked perfectly with relaxed silhouettes and floral prints, hinting at spring’s free-spirited energy.
  • Plaided Updos: Braided and plaited hairstyles doubled as accessories, enhancing the overall impact of statement bags and earrings.

Footwear: Strappy Heels to Bold Trainers

Shoes took center stage as the foundation for every statement look. This season’s top silhouettes were both diverse and daring.

  • Strappy Heels: Fierce heels with complex straps and surprise colors provided excitement at every turn, especially when paired with shorts or print dresses.
  • Brightly Colored Pumps: Green pumps became the perfect partner to daisy-print dresses, instantly perking up classic feminine looks.
  • Neon Trainers and Socks: Fluorescent trainers paired with metallic dungarees were popular among style trailblazers seeking comfort with attitude.
  • Functional Flats: Stylish flats and low-heeled boots were preferred by fashion photographers, blending style and practicality for long days on the move.

Prints, Patterns, and Colors: Accessorizing With Attitude

This season, accessories weren’t just functional but a direct expression of mood, identity, and trend savvy. Here’s how the city’s best dressed worked prints and color statements into their looks.

  • Animal Print Everything: Animal prints were huge, especially for autumn, and were incorporated on bags, shoes, and scarves.
  • Neon Accents: With the theme “Welcome to the neon jungle,” pops of neon brought wild energy to major outfits — whether via belts, sunglasses, or footwear.
  • Monochrome Magic: The timeless appeal of black-and-white was enhanced by sculptural jewelry and slogan accessories.
  • Polka Dot Detailing: Spots appeared on skirts, dresses, and statement bags, always offset with textured or slogan pieces.

Trends To Watch: The Accessory Playbook

Accessory TypeTrend ExampleStyle Impact
BagsOversized Chanel, animal print totesStatement, functionality
JewelryChunky chokers, body bijouxMaximalist, individual flair
SunglassesFuturistic shields, colored framesPersonality, mood amplifier
HatsBerets, boho headbandsPlayfulness, seasonal themes
FootwearStrappy heels, neon trainersBoldness, comfort

Street Style Inspirations: Standout Looks

  • Polished Prints: A pretty printed two-piece provided a fresh, elevated update on city dressing.
  • Smart Shorts: Thoughtful pairings of shorts and sleek tops showed that casual can be both sexy and sophisticated.
  • Metallic Spotlight: Silver dungarees worn with loud neon socks and sneakers proved that metallics are no longer reserved for evening or special occasions.
  • Boho vs. Polka Dots: The jury may be out, but both floaty, boho-chic and prim, poised polka dot trims had major street-style moments.
  • High-Impact Color: Bold bright shorts teamed with strappy shoes proved an effortless way to embrace Manhattan’s summer heat.
  • Mix-&-Match Maven: Crop tops, monochrome, leopard print—and double monochrome—were layered together for maximal trend impact.
  • Practical Chic: Fashion photographers’ shoe choices illustrated that you can be comfortable and cool all at once.
  • Confident Jungle: The neon jungle look made an entrance with color-blocked prints and adventurous combos.
  • Slogan Power: Slogan T-shirts and clutches lightened formal elements with playful irreverence, providing a casual twist to elegant silhouettes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What were the absolute standout accessory trends at NYFW SS15?

A: The biggest trends included oversized bags, statement jewelry (especially chokers and body bijoux), futuristic sunglasses, and neon and animal print accents throughout bags and shoes.

Q: How did attendees use accessories to update classic looks?

A: Attendees added dimension to traditional outfits with bold hats (like berets and boho bands), oversized earrings and necklaces, and playful shoes in bright colors, transforming them from classic to cutting-edge.

Q: What role did prints and color play in accessory styling?

A: Prints (especially animal and polka dots) and neon colors were vital for adding visual excitement and signaling the wearer’s confidence and willingness to experiment.

Q: Is body jewelry and harnesses still trending?

A: Yes, body bijoux such as harnesses, bustiers, and creatively placed gems have become a key part of modern statement looks, as seen across NYFW SS15.

Q: How can I recreate some of the top accessory looks from NYFW SS15 at home?

A: Start with a statement bag, layer on chunky jewelry, opt for bold sunglasses, and mix prints for a personality-packed ensemble. Don’t be afraid to add neon or animal print for extra flair.

Conclusion: The Power of the Perfect Accessory

New York Fashion Week SS15 confirmed that the right accessories can redefine a look, boost the wearer’s confidence, and set the tone for the season. This year’s trends called for bigger, bolder choices—more sparkle, more color, and more attitude. Whether you’re inspired to invest in a statement bag, try on maximalist jewelry, or step out in eye-catching shoes, let NYFW’s best-dressed be your guide to standing out in style.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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