Budget-Wise Fashion Accessories for Women

As much as you would love to buy a new wardrobe it just isn’t in the stars right now. That being said, every girl needs a fashion pick-me-up once in a while. Accessories are the best way to give your wardrobe and ego a much needed boost.

Instead of concentrating on a single season’s worth of accessories let’s cover all the bases. These ideas will take you from winter through fall—and beyond. Just because the majority of accessory trends originate from the world’s leading fashion houses it doesn’t mean they are out of reach for the average Jill. Many fashionable trends have already found there way to our favorite discount retailers.

Try incorporating one of these must-have accessory trends into your existing wardrobe. It is an inexpensive way to give an old outfit a new lease on life and a lift to your spirits as well.

Although the genuine article is expensive, crocodile has become the "it" fashion reptile thanks to likes of Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Fendi and Michael Kors. Luckily, us budget trendsetters can recreate runway looks with accessories made from croc-embossed leather and vinyl. Be prepared to be bombarded with crocodile clutches, purses, watchbands, iPod cases, shoes and bangle bracelets--all at a store near you.

Belts are bigger and better than ever. The good news is, you can wear them any way you want and you’ll be in style.

Whether you wear them high or low, a new belt will kick up that work or weekend outfit. Choose from wide leather, dainty silver filigree and belts with large cowboy buckles--they're are all fair game. Or simply dig through your closet and see if you can repurpose some of those belts from seasons past.

This trend doesn’t mean you have to get all duded up like a guy. However, the menswear trend shows little signs of waning so you may just want to give it a go. Start small with a few fun accessories to ease into the look.

Step into a cute, clunky pair of brogues with skinny jeans or walking shorts and a blazer. Finish the look with an oversized watch. Another take on the trend is the envelope clutch in traditional menswear fabrics like gray flannel, houndstooth and pinstripe.

From fedoras to pork pies and beanies to newsboys, menswear-inspired hats will top off a tailored suit or to add an unexpected touch to an otherwise girlie ensemble.

If you want to really make a fashion statement combine these tailored accessories with a dainty floral dress. The juxtaposition between masculine and feminine is a sure attention getter.

Lace conjures up images of romantic days gone by, but it couldn’t be more today. Never fear, you won’t end up looking like a doily, if you maintain restraint by choosing a few well-chosen lace accessories.

Cool lace is hot and it is being used as never before. Lace is not just for wraps and scarves this openwork fabric is found gracing shoes, handbags, wrist belts and even earrings. Dress up a plain dress or T-shirt with a detachable lace collar. Can you say tres trendy?

You can channel your inner Zelda Fitzgerald by sneaking a flapper accessory into your fashion repertoire. An adorable cloche looks good with just about everything. Wrap yourself up in a snuggly faux fur stole. Art Deco and Egyptian designs make for stunning brooches, earrings and bracelets.

Accent a low, draping neckline with a rope of tied pearls or faceted crystals to twirl while you’re dancing the Charleston. Purses from the day can still be found at vintage clothing stores, flea markets and antique malls. But there are plenty of modern adaptations to choose from as well.

Vintage shoes are a bit more difficult to come by. Although new designs featuring swingy fringe and T-bar styling are out in stores. A great place for inspiration is the online retailer Remix Vintage Shoes. They offer unused retro shoes and have a selection of vintage reproductions.

Don’t forget day and evening gloves. A pair of short gloves are perfect for taking afternoon tea. Long, evening gloves in black, white and pastels will definitely look glam with a beaded drop waist dress.

The fashion houses of Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel introduced tribal-inspired jewelry and accessories that are coveted among fashionistas worldwide. The look encompasses everything from Native American jewelry to African textile handbags to tribal thong and wedge sandals. Beading, natural fabrics, fringe and feathers feature prominently in tribal accessories. Consider a woven leather or fabric hobo handbag paired with a chunky, wooden beaded necklace. Rock an ethnic print scarf as impromptu headwear.