Glimmer For Holidays
In our latest Chic on a Shoestring, we look at accessories to make you shimmer at your next holiday party.
The December issue of Glamour magazine shows a great accessory that doesn't have to cost a lot, so executive fashion editor-at-large Suze Yalof Schwartz challenged The Early Show to guess which accessories were steals, costing a fraction of the designer prices of the others.
Schwartz says to you should dazzle your way through the season's round of holiday parties with a mix of glam and ladylike sophistication.
The following were accessories Schwartz recommended to put some shine to your outfit:
Brooches: A brooch is this season's big jewelry item and everyone should have one, Schwartz says. According to her, you don't have to limit them to a coat or sweater. They can be pinned on a scarf or on your skirt, towards the hip. Basic black, however, looks best with these.
Splurge:
Floral brooch by Siman Tu, $420
It's available at Bergdorf Goodman
Steal:
Banana Republic, $38
The difference: The Banana Republic is made of glass; the splurge has real gemstones.
Jeweled Sandal: This trend is still here. Schwartz says the one thing that has changed is that stones are getting bigger. The sandals dress up any look, and can go from the office to a holiday party.
Steal:
Colin Stuart, $68
Available at Victoria's Secret
Splurge:
Prada, $575
Available at Prada stores nationwide
The difference: The splurge is made of real leather, while the steal has a plastic sole.
Chandelier Earrings
Chandelier earrings are still very hot, Schwartz says. You can wear them with sexy jeans or with a fabulous dress, from day to night.
Splurge: Jose Barrera, $300
Available at Jose Barrera Boutique in New York City
Steal: Victoria's Secret, $38
Difference: The splurge is made of freshwater pearls mixed with Swarovski crystals. The steal is made of plastic pearls and rhinestones.
Moon-Shaped Silver Bags
Silver metallic is a hot item this season, according to Schwartz. The cool silver mixes easily with all colors, especially black. The shape of this bag demonstrated on The Early Show makes it perfect for fitting under your armpit, which Schwartz says is great a great and mugger-resistant look.
Steal: Lauren Tango, $85
Available at Neiman Marcus
Splurge: Philip Treacy, $595
Available at Jeffrey New York, 212-206-1272
Difference: The steal is machine-made with plastic. The splurge is handmade with leather.
Pearls
Schwartz says pearls are back in a big way, and they look great with masculine clothing. The Glamour magazine editor explains they are a classic look that makes a plain outfit special without being too flashy.
Splurge: Peter Denatale, $285
Available at Peter Denatale stores
Steal: Carolee, $65
Available at Bloomingdale's or Carolee Boutiques
The difference: The Carolee pearls are Chinese freshwater pearls. They are cheaper because they are imported from China, not Japan.
Silver Pump
Pointy-toed, metallic shoes continue to be a trend, according to Schwartz. She suggests that you never match your shoes to the outfit unless it's black. Silver can be worn with anything, and it looks great with grey.
Splurge: Manolo Blahnik, $465
Available at Manolo Blahnik stores, 212-582-3007
Steal: Nine West, $69
Available at Nine West
The Difference: The steal is pleather, and the splurge is leather.