Bling for the Buck

Rachel Yeomans

The act of people-watching has turned into a near hobby for me. Work lunches, Sunday brunch, the shopping mall — I admit that there are times I like watching pedestrians more than actually joining them. Part of this activity I so enjoy is to take in particular ensembles worn by the everyday passerby. One thing I’ve been noticing lately is not a particular look or style. It’s all bling!

Layered necklaces, rings on several fingers, statement earrings with a complimentary cuff… I haven’t seen so much layered gemstones since the last David Yurman ad! And what’s so fantastic, is that everyone is pulling it off. It’s difficult coordinating earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings. But the sidewalks I dare say have turned into all-day bejeweled runways.

Jewelry has been one of those “fashion categories” that I have just recently ventured into. I gladly invest in the latest bootie trend or spend way too much on the Chanel eye shadow quad, but I’ve never had the stomach to invest in jewelry. So when I decided to see what layers of gems I could work into my wardrobe, I opted for the gems in a somewhat conservative price range.

Two great stores I now declare my jewelry stops are Banana Republic and TJ Maxx. I bought a ring from Banana Republic five years ago that still gets the most compliments over anything I own. And ladies, I know we all run to the handbag and shoe section of TJ Maxx upon arrival; next time do yourself a favor by stopping at the jewelry counter. TJ Maxx has an amazing selection of marcasite rings that will be sure to bedazzle all who shake your hand.

These power stores aside, I was amazed to discover how many online vendors I came across that cater to the price-pinched jewelry consumer. Just a few include fragments, rileeandlo, and probably the best to slip in the boyfriend’s pocket is bluenile. They declare being the largest online retailer of certified diamonds and fine jewelry – inventory aside, I was able to find a freshwater pearl necklace for only $60.

Now that I’ve started building my jewelry collection, I might leave my people-watching post for the time being and walk amongst my bejeweled brethren. I’m not quite ready for the strut of the runway, but it’s definitely a step in the right direction!

1. Kara Ross Black & White Lizard and Gunmetal Large Shirt Cuff $450
2. Bing Bang Lure Necklace $221
3. Banana Republic Party Ring $49
4. Tahitian Colored Pearl Earrings in 18K White Gold Starting at $650
5. Pink Oval Freshwater Cultured Pearl Multi-Chain Necklace in Sterling Silver Starting at $60
6. Vintage Floral Ring by Amy Shutt $14
7. Rodrigo Otazu Pendant Necklace $355
8. Anton Heunis Bracelet $560
9. Anton Heunis Clip Earrings $170