Being Frugal and Accessories

Posted February 1st, 2009 by Edith

Frugality is now fashionable. Analysts are advising investors to short stocks like LVMH, one of the largest diversified luxury goods group that sells luggage, watches, jewellery, champagne, perfumes and cosmetics. It seems that even the richest of the richest will also be tightening their belts. No thanks to the financial giants that started all the credit mess and in the most inadvertent fashion exposed ponzi schemes like Madoff’s that have also been feeding on the boom cycles in the last ten years.

So what do fashionistas do in such trying times? Do we need to be ultra-sensitive or do we continue with our religious pursuit for the nicest things to liven up the gloomy days? My best friend was eyeing the lastest XL jumbo Chanel Flap. It’s an inch bigger all round compared to the regular jumbo and its meant to copy the vintage pieces that you see on the arms of young Hollywood celebrities. Under normal circumstances, it would have been classified as a must-buy. And because of the weaker EUR, it is priced equal to or lower than the regualr jumbo in some countries. Quite a bargain you would have thought. But we decided to give it a pass. We need to be FRUGAL.

We opted for accessories instead. Accessories are fun! Accessories are like makeovers- they transform an old outfit. For those who covet another Hermes or Chanel bag, try their accessories instead. Pick up a necklace, a belt, a bracelet or a scarf. In fact that’s what I’ve been doing. You can also use the accessories on your bags. Tie a scarf or hang a charm. It instantly feels like a new purchase.

For cheaper alternatives, I look to Kenneth Jay Lane. His range of rings and necklaces are fun and contemporary. See a selection of some of my favourites from net-a-porter below. They carry an amazing range of designer jewellery accesories that will almost always perk up your wardrobe. 

Tags: Accessories