Cheap Tricks: Fancy Fingers

Money's a little tight around the house right now.  Between searching for an apartment, getting ready to move, sending off press-kits for the movie, oh--and trying to, you know, live--there's not a whole lot of unnecessary spending going on.  There is a lot of making coffee at home, eating in (and *gasp* cooking!), and turning off lights when they're not in use (insert witty parental comment about energy efficiency here--I can't pick).  Unfortunately, it's a situation most of you are probably very familiar with.  Yay.

To do my part, I'm looking for cheap, cute finds to gussy up our existing makeup and clothing wardrobes without killing your budget.  It's just my little way of making the world a better place.  No, no, I insist.  It's the least I can do.  Please, hold your applause.

The easiest way to update an existing outfit is to change accessories.  It's kind of like changing the part in your hair;  it's a small change that makes a big impact, but so subtle that most people can't quite put their finger on what's different.  Here's a statement ring that I like. 

Photo by Forever 21

First off, I'm really drawn to the unusual subject:  an emperor beetle.  The fact that it's an insect keeps the piece from being too cutesy-sweetsey, even with all the crystal and pearlescent embellishments.  It also has a bit of a antique feel because of the "patina", but the shape is stylized in such a way that keeps it modern.  I think it's gorgeous, a great conversation starter, and at $5.80, an inexpensive way to spice up anything from a cocktail dress to jeans and a basic tee.  Also available in gold with black embellishments.  Forever21.com.