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This rainy weather may be drab, but fall style does not have to follow suit. This fall, accessories give plain wardrobes the boot.

At Bella Mia Boutique in Champaign, customers are greeted by a wide range of accessories; shiny jewels, sparkling headbands, colorful clutches. The store’s marketing manager, Nancy Dankle, provided her insights on accessorizing for a new look.

“Accessories are the best way to change or update without spending a lot,” Dankle said. “Look at what you already own, and wear it in a new way.”

Innovating new ways to wear accessories can be a challenge, but Dankle had some ideas to offer to those who need help.

“A long layered necklace can be wrapped around to make a chunky choker and a menswear vest can we worn with a scarf for instant updating,” Dankle said. “Take your old pearls and attach a fun new pin or funky earring to dangle off of it like a charm. Tie a great scarf around your handbag or around your waist.”

Before making purchases, it is essential to evaluate what pieces are staple pieces in the wardrobe — things that go with almost anything and that one wears most often. These should provide the foundations for the accessories one adds later. If an item cannot incorporate into multiple outfits, it is not worth buying.

Anna Anderson, boutique manager at Pitaya in Champaign, said, “Accessories can update a classic look instantly. Just pairing a chunky braided belt with a classic white button down can update your look.”

Sticking with accessories does not mean having to forego trends this fall, either.

“Any look can be updated with the ever-popular statement necklace this fall,” Anderson said. To dress up a plain t-shirt, pair it with a statement necklace and peep toe booties.

Legwear — from tights and leggings to knee-high socks, even the ‘80s comeback of stirrups — has made a huge showing this season from high fashion runways to Champaign sidewalks.

Tights in particular are a great way to change a look. They can stretch skirts, dresses, and, according to this season’s trends, even shorts through fall and winter months. They add visual interest to an outfit with different patterns, colors and textures, all while keeping those stems snuggly warm.

“Don’t put your summer skirts away,” Anderson said, “Pair your floral skirts with tights, boots and a belted cardigan.”

After shopping, tags still clinging to those new purchases, one must check for the versatility of the accessories with the rest of the wardrobe. If purchases are not working out, it is worth the time to return them.

Try new trends, Anderson said, but know what works on you. He added, “Don’t get overwhelmed by all the options — be true to your own style.”