Ball is just around the corner and the focus of many TEENage girls is THE DRESS. Some have had their dress bought or made months in advanced. Others have yet to get theirs. Once all of that is out of the way however, what about accessories? Deciding on accessories is often one of the "down to crunch time" decisions, simply because it is so often taken for granted. In this now so fashion-forward world, we should know better. However, in case you don't quite get it yet, here are some dos and don'ts.

Complimenting vs Matching
DO NOT. match everything directly with your dress.
DO... find colours that compliment that of your dress for your nails and cl**tch.

Nails
DO NOT. go with the lime greens, shocking fuchsias or neon blues. It's inappropriate and simply TOO MUCH.
DO. go with pastels or bolds. Pastels are always classy. Bold colours (for example Deep blues, oranged or reds) can add some flavour and chicness to a formal outfit.
DO NOT. use neon for the accent design or go over the top on the complexity of the design.
DO. try French tips and designs with neutrals or pastels allows for a little extra without stepping out of the boundaries of elegant. Simple is better; don't take away from the dress as the main feature.
DO NOT. put on claws for nails. Too long is a bit scary.

Jewellery
DO NOT. mix jewellery types! Silver and diamond earrings with a gold necklace and pearl bracelet? Definite no-no.
DO. choose jewellery based on the look you're going for. Dresses in deep or earthy colours are best complimented with gold jewelry. Pearls give a classic look when worn with a solid-coloured dress and diamonds can compliment almost anything. Be careful with how you wear other precious stones. Silver is always a good "fall-back".

Bags
DO NOT. go "super-size". Though enormous bags are "all the rage", less is best for a formal event such as ball. Leave the tote bag at home.
DO. carry a small, yet cute cl**tch.
DO NOT. try to stuff your make-up case, phone, purse, etc into your cl**tch. An overstuffed cl**tch looks tacky.
DO. carry ONLY the essentials. And don't forget you ticket!

Shawls/Scarves
DO NOT. wear either article if not necessary. Both are a tad bit old-fashioned and dated.
DO. wear either one that comes with the dress or one in a complimentary colour that goes with your other accessories.

These tips are simply the tip of the iceberg in the world of fashion, but should hopefully give you a push in the right direction. In whatever you decide, remember that ball is a formal occasion so dress accordingly. Accessories can make or break you, make you look "fierce" or make you a big flop. So ladies, accessorise responsibly.