Every fashion enthusiast knows that Fifth Avenue is one of the best places to go shopping. But here at The New School, Fifth Avenue is more than that — it’s a runway. From statement bags to standout shoes, Fashion on Fifth is here to give you front-row access to some of The New School’s chicest looks. This week, we’re focusing on accessories.

Fashion is often defined by its statement pieces — the bold silhouettes, the loud colors, and the eye-catching looks that demand immediate attention. These are the showstoppers and highlights of any runway; they are catalysts for self-expression. Without them, fashion wouldn’t feel nearly as vibrant or as personal. 

But there’s just as much beauty in the quieter details, the ones that almost go unnoticed. These subtle touches may not be the first thing others see, but they’re essential to creating the full picture of an outfit. Accessories — rings, bags, necklaces, sunglasses — might not steal the spotlight, but they add a final, unforgettable touch of personality. This week on Fashion on Fifth, we’re celebrating the small things. Because sometimes, the best fashion statements aren’t really statements at all — they’re the details behind the showstoppers.

Fernanda Habeica she/her — @fer_habeica

First-year Parsons School of Design interior design student 

“I think having original pieces is the most important thing to make a cool outfit,” Fernanda told me as we chatted about her styling tips. Her pink poncho might be one of the most beautiful statement pieces I’ve ever seen — bold, unique, and full of personality. But it was the details woven into it that truly brought her look to life. Handcrafted by an artisan in Puebla, a city southeast of Mexico City, the poncho isn’t just eye-catching; it’s meaningful.

In just three minutes of conversation, I learned so much about Fernanda — not only her fashion sense but the way she views the world. To her, fashion is “an image you give to yourself and the world,” and that philosophy is definitely clear in everything from her words to the way she carries herself. What made Fernanda’s outfit stand out wasn’t just the poncho itself but the way every piece worked together. From her thrifted pink-and-brown cowboy boots to the jewelry that’s also from Mexico City, each piece felt intentional.

Anna Lussault she/her — @anna_lussault 

First-year Parsons Strategic Design and Management student 

Anna’s outfit screams spring. With her brown thrifted boots and geometric floral top, she looks ready for any warm-weather adventure. When I asked what inspired her look, she said, “I just got this top, so I was trying to style it. It’s too short to be a dress, so I put a skirt in it to have that little layering effect.” It ultimately resulted in a soft yet structured silhouette that elevated her entire outfit — proving that layering can be the secret ingredient to stylish dressing.

Her approach fits perfectly with her own mindset on what is most important when choosing an outfit: “The silhouette, you know, small top, big pants; small pants, big top.” That sense of proportion and balance gives her outfit an effortless finish.

But what stood out most was her attention to detail, especially with accessories. “When working with colors, even neutrals, always have two of it,” she advised. “If you’re going to wear brown boots, have a reminder of brown in your jewelry or something. You can sandwich your colors on your body.”

And that’s exactly what she did. Her brown boots echoed the subtle hint of brown in her necklace stack — a thoughtful finishing touch that tied everything together. If I ever need fashion advice again, I know who I’m running to.

Selin Ozderici she/her — @selinozderici

First-year graduate Parsons industrial design student 

I spotted Selin’s bag from a few feet away and immediately knew I had to interview her. The bright green was the perfect pop of color against her otherwise neutral-toned outfit.

When asked what inspired her to throw the look together, she said, “I was feeling hot and rather lazy, so I just put it together. Nothing special.” While that feeling is definitely relatable, I’d argue Selin’s outfit was anything but ordinary. Her beautiful thrifted Prada bag paired with a classic white tee and dark-wash jeans nailed the low-effort, high-reward aesthetic. For Selin, the most important part of any outfit is “feeling comfortable and confident,” and honestly, that might be the best style advice of all.

Tiarra Baccari she/her — @tiarrabaccari 

First-year Parsons architecture student 

“I love my rings, and I never take them off,” Tiara said, a sentiment that I and many others can relate to. When we adore our rings, taking them off feels impossible — they become a part of us.

Tiara’s ring stacks were among the fullest and most perfectly curated I’ve seen. It was clear she’d put years of hard work and intention into crafting the ideal display. When asked what she believes is the most important part of an outfit, she said, “I think accessories make it all come together.” As you probably know by now, I couldn’t agree more. Tiara’s look was simple yet classy, but it was her lavish jewelry that truly brought it to life. From her statement necklace and stacked bracelets to her stunning rings, Tiara is glowing.

Accessories are everywhere. Whether it be your school bag or your rings that you wear every single day, everyday accessories can always make a statement. Fashion is a way of presenting yourself to the world. From big, bold pieces to dainty jewelry that is nearly unnoticeable, every item has a story behind it. It’s important that we begin to learn what makes each other’s accessories unique. As these four looks show, accessories don’t just finish an outfit, they tell a story. And on Fifth Avenue, every detail counts.