Sparkly Baubles on a Budget

Any seasoned fashionista knows that the dress is the center of every special occasion ensemble. Your dress will determine your hairstyle, makeup, shoes, and accessories. When it comes to jewelry, exceptionally exquisite pieces can go for upwards of $150. For those of us shopping on a budget, it is likely that a substantial sum has already been devoted to the dress; therefore, special care must be taken to find reasonably priced accessories. Have no fear - there are several options.

Trends in fashion jewelry are much like trends in dress style - open to interpretation. As I have mentioned in previous articles, the most important features of any dress are that it makes you feel beautiful and compliments your individual style ... the same rules apply for jewelry. My best advice is to begin your search in a local mall or retail shop. Check out the rhinestone jewelry at stores such as H&M, Icing, Claire's, and Forever 21, where it is likely to be inexpensive. If you don't find the perfect piece, use what you do find for inspiration. If you already have a concept in mind, check out the bead galleries at your local craft store and consider creating your own jewelry. Depending upon the look you desire to achieve, this may be a comparatively inexpensive route for those of you who are artistically inclined. If you find yourself at a complete loss as to jewelry selection, the following is a list of guidelines you may find helpful.

1. When selecting earrings, keep the style of your dress in mind. If your dress boasts a substantial amount of beadwork, you may want to go minimal with your earrings. There is such a thing as too much flash. If your dress is made of a simple fabric in a basic color, you may find it useful to invest in some lengthy, chandelier style earrings. Also consider the neckline of your dress. Remember, the goal is to achieve the look of a perfectly unified and balanced package.
2. When selecting a necklace, remember that it should coordinate in some way with your earrings. When choosing rhinestones, remember that these can also be color coordinated. For example, canary shaded rhinestones are stunning when combined with a yellow dress. The same rules apply here as with earrings. If your dress is flashy on its own, less is usually more.
3. When selecting bracelets and rings, consider the length and color of your fingernails. A French manicure is easily played up with sparkling jewels. Fingernails in shades of bright colors often serve as an additional accessory - once again, less may be more here.

Still feeling lost? Check out these pieces for some inspiration.

1. Dazzle Jeweled Ring
See it here.
For $8.80 at Forever 21, this sparkler adds just the right amount of glam to any manicure. It is a .7" diameter polished metal, tapered band adorned with several rhinestones.

2. Single-row Rhinestone Bangles
See it here.
These bangles can be ordered from rhinestonejewelry.com in bundles of 12 pieces. They are silver plated and individually poly-bagged, selling for $3.75 per piece.

3. Aurora Borealis Crystal Lemon Drop Earrings
See it here.
These jewels are available online at vintagecostumejewels.com. Purchasing vintage jewelry is an inexpensive way to obtain a quality piece that will last forever. The following is the description provided at vintagecostumejewels.com: These 2" clip earrings flash with AB citrine chatons with clip mechanisms leading to a chain of crystal rhinestones and finally, swinging glass crystal briolette lemon drops. Not only will they dance merrily about your face, but his mouth will water with the longing to nibble your ears and neck. Sigh~ these jewels are dreamy sparkly lemon candy to match with the sunny days ahead. Findings are gold tone with silver tone clips. Excellent condition. Enjoy for $20.

4. Floral Rhinestone Sweetheart Sparkler Necklace
See it here.
These jewels are also available online at vintagecostumejewels.com. The following is the description provided at vintagecostumejewels.com: This 1950's creation is much different than the usual prom queen offerings with its centerpiece of 3 medallions set in silver colored metal. The medallions at either side offer "black diamond" rhinestones alternating with crystal aurora borealis rhinestones in flower cups with an AB rosette in the center. The concave structure adds variety and depth of sparkle. The central medallion is the opposite--dome shaped with one layer a round of stones similar to black diamonds, but with a very slight hint of dusky green. These alternate with smaller crystal ABs, but on top is a floweret of still more crystal ABs flashing pinks, pale coral, green and yellow lights. The arrangement is unique and very sparkly with high quality stones. Each medallion is 1" in diameter; the necklace clasps at a maximum of 16 1/4" princess length, but you can use the adjustable J hook and chain to wear it as a choker or collar. Excellent condition. $52.

5. Lacy, Shimmering Crystal Rhinestone Wide Bracelet
See it here.
These jewels are also available online at vintagecostumejewels.com. The following is the description provided at vintagecostumejewels.com: The bracelet measures a clasping length of 6 5/8", but I can get it on my medium wrist with a little help--it has a push-in v-clasp, and it will definitely fit the small to medium wrist. Width is 1 3/4" for plenty of gasping space when you are seen in your new manicure! Every crystal rhinestone is prong set and flashes clean & bright. Set in rhodium and in excellent condition, you have a real winner! $58.