FASH-ON WITH XXL JJDP – MAKE IT YOUR OWN

Shot by jjdp

Summer is breaking through and with just about two months left for the long awaited vacation time, I am sure everyone is trying to save like crazy to cover the costs for a little getaway to some tropical hideout. So while trying to look stylish and save money, this month we are continuing with our series on how to add ‘smartly’ to your already-established wardrobe without breaking the bank.

To start off, we need to look cool, and as the days are getting brighter you might want to start protecting your eyes from those harsh rays of the sun with a new pair of sunglasses. There are many trends this summer, but I find that usually a classic style works best. Personally, I love the aviator shape, as it is a staple for all of my summers, but this year I have opted for a softer, more rounded edge for a little variance.

Like I said, I prefer classic frames such as black and browns. Another combo to try is tortoise shell, which is once again a strong feature in eyewear collections this season. Alternatively, you can liven up your ensemble even more with a pop of color and get frames in luminescent greens, pinks, shocking citrus blues or any hue that catches your fancy. I usually find that getting some cheap pairs of ‘sunnies’ is amazing because I love changing my glasses with each look. The thought of spending over 500,000 won on one pair in a designer store is a bit crazy,so I just get cheaper ones, and my new favorite collection is from Forever 21. Even though they don’t have a physical store in Gwangju, you can order online, and it will be shipped to you as soon as possible. But if it is really urgent and you can’t wait a day or two, you can also venture downtown to Timezone, across from the old Mudeung Theatre near Wedding Street, where they also have really good frames at great prices. NC Wave also has various smaller vendors who stock great frames. Most glasses are priced in the 6,000 – 10,000 won range.

Next up are bracelets. Sometimes you just want to wear an un-fussed outfit, but you want to differentiate your look with an attractive, eye-catching arm accessory. From friendship bracelets to silver or gold and even leather, it’s all good. Nothing says summer like sunnies and bracelets. While I love things in black or polyvinyl material, I’ve also recently gotten into some braided leather. Most girls love to have something shiny or metallic, which is also quite easy to come by around town. Go big, go shiny, go gorgeous and decorate your wrists to your heart’s content!

 

Finally, don’t forget about your neck. As far necklaces go, you can experiment. Necklaces are easier and safer for girls, but it might be a bit harder for guys. Here’s the trick, though: for guys, a plain, simple silver chain and pendant works best. For girls, the chunkier look is going to be good this season, but make sure that you are prepared and you can wear it with a plain shirt or dress. You really don’t need to do anything else. Keep in mind that humidity is on the rise and you will be sweaty, but I think a good tip for wearing the chunky necklace is to only put it on when you arrive at your destination, or even just before making your entrance.

 

So there you have it: three great, cheap add-ons that can change your whole look. Of course, experiment as much as you want, because these are so easy on your wallet. Therein lies the charm. Once you find a style or accessory that works for you, you will end up looking like a million bucks regardless. So, go ahead – get accessorizing.

 

xxl

jjdp

 

Sunglasses – Timezone/downtown Gwangju , forever21.co.kr

Bracelets and Necklaces – H&M, Underground market connecting Culture complex and Geumnamro 4ga, Timezone, forever21.com, NC Wave

 

Thanks to L.Thi