Ask Belle: Six Chic Necklaces, Under-$50
Jun 22, 2015
Hi Belle,
My family gave me a lot of department store gift cards for graduation presents. I bought a couple of suits and dresses using a guide from one of your old posts, but accessories are kind of a mystery to me. I really like wearing necklaces, but I can’t bring myself to spend more than $50 for one. Kate Spade’s stuff is really cute but I just can’t.
Can you recommend some inexpensive necklaces that don’t look cheap?
Thank you, Becca
I’m glad you found some helpful advice in the CHS archives. Building a professional wardrobe from scratch is no easy feat.
Necklaces are a great way to bring color or texture to a basic piece of clothing. My favorite necklace comes from Stella & Dot, and it’s a bit more than $50. But I wear it at least twice a week, and my last one stayed in good shape for over two years before I replaced it. So it may be worth the extra.
However, if you’re sold on your $50 price limit, here are a few necklaces that I loved in different styles.
LOFT Rondelle Necklace ($44 + 60%-off)
Baublebar Zelda Necklace ($44)
Nordstrom Long Bar Necklace (also in white metal, $23)
Resin Crystal Statement Necklace ($44 + 60%-off)
T Tahari Gold-Tone Hexagonal Pendant ($42)
I find it easier to spend money on necklaces from Etsy. I’ve found some really beautiful pieces and the sellers are always so lovely. You’ll have a nice piece of handmade jewelry and the knowledge that you supported a good business.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/227342857/maya-simple-gold-handmade-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_12
https://www.etsy.com/listing/66800648/asymmetrical-necklace-sterling-silver?ref=shop_home_active_8
https://www.etsy.com/listing/83918773/black-triangle-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_12
https://www.etsy.com/listing/223678662/grey-black-and-white-ombre-faceted-gem?ref=shop_home_active_15
https://www.etsy.com/listing/128142955/mint-and-blush-long-statement-necklace?ref=shop_home_active_10
Accessories have a lot to do with your overall aesthetic. For me, I like classic, tailored clothing with a bit of rustic/earthy influence. Because of this, my favorite place for quality, low-cost jewelry is Madewell and Lucky. Obviously not every piece will go with a suit or a sweater set, but many times a blending of styles works well to show a little bit more personality than what a standard black skirt suit provides. Just my two cents – I’m definitely no expert!
Can’t go wrong with a simple strand of pearls and matching pearl studs for a basic starter. I’ve always favored small pendant necklaces for accessorizing, but I’ve also always favored brights and patterns in my dressing so I’m very toned down with the accessories.
People always say that, but I haven’t seen anyone under the age of a billion wear that in an office setting in the last 20 years. I personally think it looks dowdy.
Kate Spade has a very simple and elegant initial necklace that I use as my everyday or “signature” necklace. They price was extremely reasonable; I purchased from Nordstrom’s.