In a pinch, clothing and accessories often go over well, Ms. Coleman says.

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Antea's gold chain and the lush marten fur draped over one of her shoulders (an emblem of fertility) were equally symbolic, although Ms Neilson is careful to note that courtesans favoured such accessories too.

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Ms. Lederman's favorite "new trends" in accessories include beaded bottle covers, which she said were particularly big right now.

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Ms Hill, who joined Mulberry in March 2008, won Best Accessories Designer at the 2011 Elle Style Awards and Best Designer Brand at the 2010 British Fashion Awards.

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While Ms. Acra likes having some bling in her dress, she believes in toning down her accessories for warm-weather evening events.

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