Wardrobe Essentials that Won't Break the Bank - Part 3: Accessories

Accessories can totally transform an outfit. A wise and fashionable friend once told me to invest (at least a little) in your accessories and to hold onto them because they ALWAYS come back in style. This is an area where it is VERY easy to go overboard, but if you are on a budget there are a few key pieces that can take you into multiple seasons and years.This is the final part of a three-part series about wardrobe essentials - this week its all about accessories:Evening Clutch - A big black handbag does NOT go with everything and stuffing everything into your pockets doesn’t make the grade either. Buy ONE special clutch that fits your cell phone, keys and only your absolute essentials. You are going out for dinner/drinks, not on a vacation. Learn to scale back when it comes to a night out and your clutch options broaden dramatically. A black, gold, nude or even RED clutch will work with almost anything. Some will even come with a detachable shoulder strap, so your clutch can do double duty as a shoulder bag. Diane Von Furstenburg “Leather Embossed Envelope Clutch” ($225 at The Bay), TOPSHOP “Premium Leather Clean Clutch” – pictured ($90), Aldo Accessories “Cotati” box clutch with shoulder strap ($50)Pearl Stud Earrings – pearls instantly class things up with zero effort. They are especially great for those low-maintenance days when you want to throw your hair up in a messy ponytail or into a baseball cap and head out with minimal make-up. I personally opt for faux pearls (because I seem to lose a pair every 3 months) and I like mine to be a bit oversized. Check out The Bay for great faux pearls (or real ones if you’re responsible). They have a good selection of sizes and tints and prices start at $8.00 a pair.Statement Necklace – My collection of statement jewelry is relatively small, but I do have a couple of large, “blingy” necklaces that go with just about anything. Similar to pearl earrings, pair a statement necklace with a casual outfit and instantly improve your style cred. Banana Republic is my go-to for accessories. On-trend and always classic styles. Wait for their frequent 40% off sales to score something beautiful without burning a hole through your wallet. Banana Republic “Sparkle Swag Necklace” – pictured ($145), Banana Republic “Crystal Pyramid Necklace” ($95), J. Crew “Tonal Crystal Necklace” ($55.50 on sale)Watch – If you don’t wear a watch, then you should start (#mommingmoment). It is a classy piece of jewelry that can be worn every day and makes the perfect accessory to an accessory-less outfit. Stick with silver, gold, rose gold or black leather bands for versatility. A classic watch will get you YEARS of wear. You get what you pay for when it comes to watches, so splurge (a little) on quality and something you really love. Michael Kors “Jaren” Watch – pictured ($300), Nixon “Minx” ($285 - $350), Daniel Wellington “Sheffield” ($199 USD)MeVest Blog Contributor, Tracy Fu from preshrunk.ca