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?-?-2008
Style
Posted on May 1, 2008 12:00 AM

Save v. Splurge

Accessories are much more than excess pieces of flair to be selected hastily and thrown on. In many cases, these decorative touches have the power to make or break your ensemble. We explore two items -- bangle bracelets and sunglasses -- that offer endless ways to round out an outfit while complementing both individual style and the current trends.

However, for as important as they are, these accessories don't have to break the bank. There are many affordable options for high style at a low price.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a definite must-have for the upcoming summer months. Grabbing a great pair will help you survive the warmer weather and add instant chic to your look. For classic "Audrey Hepburn-esque" glasses, grab dark, large frames, which exude 1950s glamour.

Splurge: Giorgio Armani's Gemstone sunglasses ($695, neimanmarcus.com) scream high-end glamour with their oversized circular frames and ultra-dark lenses.

Save: Forever21's Vintage Sunglasses ($5.80, forever21.com) have the same great classic look of the Armani's at a fraction of the cost.

If you prefer to look fly in sky-high style, then aviators sunglasses are just your fit. They are sporty yet chic, fun and flirty and pack a lot of style punch.

Splurge: Oliver People's Strummer Aviator Sunglasses ($315, neimanmarcus.com) have the quintessential aviator look with their simplistic shape and dark brown lenses.

Save: Forever21's Superstar Sunglasses ($5.80) are the perfect shades for a star on the rise or someone on a college budget who just wants to look like a celebrity.

Bangles

Bangles and bracelets are a great way to add some fun to your warm- weather look. Bold, white bangles are all the rage in Hollywood, with stars such as Jennifer Lopez using their crisp, clean look to make bold fashion statements.

Splurge: Fendi's To You Logo Bangle ($440, eluxury.com) is white hot. Celebs all over Hollywood, including Mrs. Lopez, have been parading the streets with this great accessory.

Save: Forever21's Oversized Bangle ($6.80, forever21.com) is a great alternative to the pricey Fendi. Its simple, sleek design is a great complement to any ensemble and emulates star style flawlessly.

Gold has also rocked the season in a big way, according to style.com. Gold accessories are perfect for complementing tan and darker skin tones, making them ideal for the sun-kissed looks of spring and summer.

Splurge: Juicy Couture's Resin and Chain Wide Bangle ($98, shopbop.com) is definitely a must-have that stands out without looking gaudy.

Save: Forever21's Floral Metal Bangle ($5.80, forever21.com) is a different take on the Juicy Couture bangle, but its intricate detail is just as showstopping as its predecessor.

1-02-2009