21 under-$100 accessories I can’t stop wearing
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I love to splurge on a handbag or a new pair of shoes as much as the next person, but there’s something I love even more: A bargain. As it turns out, not everyone cares that your new purchase didn’t come from SSENSE or an overpriced vintage spot — and the satisfaction of knowing your cost-per-wear on something like a pair of platform flip-flops or a chic silk scarf is in the pennies is enough satisfaction for me. Still, the best under-$100 accessories sometimes require a little hunting. To be sure I don’t end up having the exact wardrobe as the rest of Los Angeles, I usually skip the first few “new arrival” pages of Zara, Mango, H&M or any other mass store and stick to less-visited areas of the site.
I also focus on trend-forward shoes, sunglasses and other accessories at stores like these, while I typically save up for more timeless, big-ticket items like jackets, blazers, trousers and other pieces that are trend-agnostic. (That said, if you focus on buying your accessories around more affordable stores, your chance of running into someone in the same cheetah print Zara dress is close to nil.)
Ahead are some of my under-$100 accessories to buy as we head into the dead of summer.
Sunglasses
I’m fairly notorious for losing or breaking sunglasses, so I no longer let myself spend a lot of money on them. Plus, sunglasses tend to be more susceptible to the trend cycle, making it easier to justify buying a new pair every year.
AIRE Whirlpool Sunglasses, $39
Mango Acetate Frame Sunglasses, $29.99
Le Specs Aphrodite Alt Fit, $89
Shoes
As someone who spent more than a decade in NYC, I’m used to walking so much that I quite literally run my shoes to the ground. Now that I’m an LA resident, I still find myself walking everywhere I can — which means most of my shoes still take a beating. While I like to save my more expensive ones for fancy nights out, these are the ones I rely on for everyday wear.
Los Angeles Apparel Unisex Slides, $24
Zara Lace-Up Platform Sandals, $69.90
Mango Straps Heel Leather Sandals, $49.99 (Orig. $79.99)
Scarves
Any time I put together an outfit that feels like it’s missing something that I can’t put my finger on, I grab a scarf. No matter if I wear it in my hair, around my neck or in my hair, nine times out of 10, that does the trick.
Bleusalt The Scarf, $35 (Orig. $50)
Lunya Washable Silk Scarf, $48
J.Crew Square Scarf in Liberty Print, $39.50
Bags
Generally, I like to save up for a luxury handbag that I’m excited to wear for years to come. But every so often, I can’t resist getting in on a trend that I know will only last a few seasons, and I love going to retailers like Oak & Fort and Source Unknown for trend-forward accessories that don’t cost an arm and a leg.
Oak & Fort Round Shoulder Bag, $46
JW PEI Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag, $89
I’m guilty of wearing the same rings, earrings and dainty chain necklaces almost every day — but every time I put on a chunky necklace or flashy, look-at-me earrings or rings, it instantly transforms my outfit. Still, because I don’t want to invest in jewelry that’s likely just part of the trend cycle, I like to look for brands that specialize in affordable pieces.
Zara Pearl Body Chain, $27.90
Argento Vivo Two-Tone Necklace, $98
& Other Stories Beaded Drop Earrings, $49
Belt
The lowly belt gets a bad rap — mostly because they’re often forgettably functional — but a good standout belt can easily become the star of your outfit.
Los Angeles Apparel Unisex Arrow Buckle Leather Belt, $62
SHASHI Maui Belt, $52
Zara Woven Metallic Belt, $9.99 (Orig. $39.99)
Phone Chain
Sure, phone chains are probably a fad — but I’ve had mine on for more than a year and find it both useful and fun. Here are some affordable ones I love.
String Ting Venus Pearl Trap Phone Strap, $66.76
Petit Moments Candy Phone Charm, $25
Lilac Chunky Chain Wrist Phone Strap, $79
If you enjoyed this story, check out 13 summer handbags you can bring anywhere this season!
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