WordGarden.ioaccessorize
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /əksˈɛsɔːrˌaɪz/
US
- /ækˈsɛsərˌaɪz/
Meanings
Verb
to add accessories to an outfit or appearance for style
to add decorative or complementary extras to something
Beyond the definition
Accessorizing is the art of completing a look or a space by adding extra touches. While it is most famous in the world of fashion, the concept applies whenever you add items to enhance a foundation. Think of a plain black dress: it's lovely on its own, but if you accessorize it with a bold necklace, colorful shoes, and a stylish handbag, it suddenly makes a statement! Similarly, you don't just furnish a room; you accessorize it with throw pillows, rugs, and artwork to turn a house into a home. It is the step that takes something from "functional" to "finished."
To accessorize means to enhance something by adding supplementary items, specifically for decorative or stylistic purposes. The word comes from "accessory"—a subordinate or supplementary part.
While the term is overwhelmingly used in fashion (adding scarves, jewelry, belts, or hats) and interior design (adding lamps, vases, or plants), its usage has broadened to include anything that can be customized. You might accessorize your smartphone with a glittery case, or accessorize your car with custom seat covers.
In a more metaphorical sense, writers or speakers might say they "accessorize" a story with vivid descriptions to make it more engaging. However, it is important to note that accessorizing is not about covering up flaws; it is about highlighting strengths. A well-accessorized outfit doesn't just look good—it tells a story about the wearer's personality. Whether you are choosing earrings for a night out or picking curtains for a window, accessorizing is the process of taking something good and making it great through thoughtful additions.
Examples
- 1
Dress styling
The stylist accessorized the plain black dress with gold earrings and a thin belt.
- 2
Work style
For work, she usually accessorizes with simple jewelry instead of anything flashy.
- 3
Everyday outfits
You can accessorize a basic outfit with a scarf, a bag, or a pair of sunglasses.
- 4
Avatar customization
The game lets you accessorize your avatar with hats, glasses, and backpacks.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Interior design
They accessorized the living room with plants and a few bright cushions.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- accessorizeverb