Page 96 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2026

TH
E BOOK
story by Lynn Lofton
photos by Candace Riser and courtesy of Flourish Boutique and Grant’s for Her
Every woman knows she’s not fully dressed without accessories. What are the accessory trends for 2026? Two boutique owners tell us what they think is hot this year.
Flourish in Gulfport opened last June and owners Dawn Mears and Brandy Bryan have filled their shop with must-haves. One thing new this year are the hand made cowgirl hats. They’re distressed to look vintage and embellished with vintage items.
“Shawls are still popular,” says Mears. “We have Italian shawls and faux fur reversible capelets with floral print on one side. Vests are also a great option especially when vintage pins and broaches are added.”
Mears, who had a shop in California before moving here, has noticed that Southern women like sparkles and big glittering accessories. Faux gemstone earrings are one of her biggest sellers.
“Bracelet-style wrist watches are coming back for men and women,” she said. “Wear grandma’s watch with your bracelets even if it doesn’t keep time.”
The former fashion merchandise instructor adds, “Fashion is evolution, not revolution as many things come back around.”
Grants for Her owner Sharon Weeks says, “Some accessories we can expect to see are full of color, texture and here to make a statement! While there’s something to be said for your timeless classics, this year is all about bigger,
bolder pieces that will take your style to the next level.”
She advises women to think about reaching for silver instead of gold options. “Chunky earrings and cuff bracelets. Other jewelry must-haves include oversized pearls, long statement strands and handbags in fun, bold colors in blues and reds and of course, soft pastels. For shoes you can expect square toes, fringe, suede, and lots of texture. And for an added chic touch, small scarves with delicate prints are also rising in popularity.”
The Biloxi boutique owner says it’s tough
to pinpoint one key hot item. “However,
I will say that many of our customers will invest in a handbag. This is something you
can use everyday to elevate whatever you’re wearing. A suede fringe, bold pop of color or textured animal embossed leather is the perfect investment piece for elevating your style each season.”
Another item her customers will invest in are sunglasses. This year bold, oversized sunglasses are key to a wardrobe.
“What I love about fashion is that style
is really ageless. I strive to keep a curated assortment of accessories and clothing that could work for a wide age range,” she said. “Jewelry is less about age and more about expression. The same piece of jewelry can feel different at age 20, 40 and 70 because the person wearing it brings the context.”
Brandy Bryan and Dawn Mears
96 | February 2026
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