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Irene Chen thinks of style as a language, and accessories are the exclamation points that give every outfit its meaning. As the founder of Parker Thatch, Irene has spent decades creating timeless yet functional luxury pieces that combine elegance with ease. Given her roots in fashion product development for iconic brands like Donna Karan and Calvin Klein, Chen has an insider’s understanding of how key accessories can transform not only an outfit but the wearer’s confidence. His philosophy is simple: good style has no age limit, and the right accessories are the key to creating a look that feels authentic, authentic to you.
Irene’s style is casual yet creative. She believes in building a wardrobe of classic, high-quality clothes and letting accessories take center stage. Accessories are “conversation starters that show your personality,” she says, and her incredible eye for detail proves it. Whether it’s a luxurious scarf, a statement piece of jewelry, or a well-designed clutch, Irene’s accessories show that the investment approach to clothing isn’t limited to clothes. Instead, it achieves a powerful finish that elevates your wardrobe and creates a sense of individuality. And lucky for us, he’s sharing his best tips for choosing accessories below.
Featured image from our interview with Candace Nelson by Michelle Nash.
Essential Accessories: Irene Chen’s 7 Choices to Elevate Your Style
Irene’s high end accessories reflect her belief that they are a powerful way to tell your story. These are seven pieces that turn a simple outfit into something extraordinary, allowing you to step out feeling polished and looking undeniably good. Whether you’re new to fundraising or seasoned, Irene’s well-thought-out picks will inspire you to make investments you’ll cherish for years to come.
1. Belts and scarves
According to Chen, a scarf or bandana is much more than an essential accessory, a statement of refined sophistication. “A fancy scarf or a well-constructed bandana can elevate your entire look,” she shares. “It’s that subtle touch of refinement that adds a layer of sophistication and finishes your outfit with an air of understated elegance.”
2. Belts
Chen believes that belts have the power to change the quality of everyday looks, which is why they rank so high on her list of essentials. “It can take something basic, like jeans and a t-shirt, and make it look finished and put together,” he says. “It’s really like a secret weapon in your closet—one of those little details that makes a big difference.”
3. Statement Jewelry
Statement jewelry is an opportunity to express who you are, offering easy ways to express yourself. As Chen puts it, “It’s a way to make a lasting impression.” Whether it’s a statement necklace, a curated stack of rings, or statement earrings, these essential accessories have the power to transform an outfit.
4. Bag Charms
“I add charms to my bag because it’s a cool way to personalize it and make it feel like it’s really mine,” explains Chen. They become a valuable resource when treated as tangible representations of the memories that shape us. He says: “Each charm has a special meaning. “They all tell a story and bring back happy memories every time I see them.”
When it comes to styling, he embraces the charms of creative freedom. “I like to mix and match different charms to create different looks,” she shares. “I also like to play with different patterns and colors to add visual interest.” By combining personal meaning with playful design, bag charms become a way to express both style and the stories that make us who we are.
“Each charm holds a special memory or meaning. They all tell a story and bring back happy memories every time I see them.”
5. Big Clutch
“A clutch instantly elevates your look, adding a touch of art and sophistication,” she says. It is an essential accessory for a special event or a night out, adding an element of polish. Beyond its style, Chen also notes the clutch’s practical side. “It’s a great way to organize your things. You can use it to keep your valuables separate from your main bag.” For those times when you’re carrying a large tote or purse, a clutch provides a practical and stylish way to keep your must-haves within easy reach, while maintaining the right look.
6. Small Bag
Small bags often come off as something impossible, but Chen sees this category of bags as important because of its power. “A unique little bag is a conversation starter that shows your personality,” she explains. With that understanding, it’s a little piece of art that you take with you.
7. The Great Clock
A classic watch is an essential accessory because it “easily completes your look, whether you’re wearing jeans and a tee or a dress,” says Chen. It’s the perfect companion to your bracelet stack, adding a subtle touch of sparkle and shine that accentuates your ensemble with elegance. Beauty aside, Chen sees this particular device as an investment. He says: “It is a timeless treasure that can be passed down from generation to generation, it has your own history.”
8. Breads
And finally, let’s not forget that your list of essential accessories requires one pair of shoes: loafers. “Loafers make any outfit look cool,” confirms Chen. Whether it’s paired with jeans and a button-down or a straight skirt or Bermuda shorts, it’s her go-to shoe for easy style.
Irene Chen
Irene Chen is the founder of Parker Thatch, a luxury accessories brand based in California. With a background in fashion brand development, including roles at Donna Karan and Calvin Klein, Irene brings decades of industry experience to the company she co-founded with her husband, Matthew Grenby. Together, they have grown Parker Thatch from its founding as an e-stationery company in 2001 to a profitable, eight-figure business known for its stylish and functional bags.