As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned the value of owning a good-quality piece of jewelry. Growing up, I was allllll about, what my Dad called, “costume jewelry”. Thinking back, he was totally accurate with that statement (as embarrassing as that is). I kid you not, I had the weirdest collection of jewelry from plastic bangles and giant beaded necklaces, to chunky earrings and big bulky rings that would turn my fingers green. The whole nine yards.
Now that I’m 30, I’ve simplified my style and choose to only wear jewelry that is (mostly) timeless, good quality, and most importantly, remaining affordable. Don’t get me wrong, I still love a good Forever 21 necklace! In fact, I think if you’re thinking about getting a trendy piece of jewelry that may not be in style in the years that follow, it might be worth it to just go to a place like that. I do!
But today, I’m going to share a few of my favorite pieces of everyday jewelry that are not only affordable, but are timeless and will never go out of style.
Alex and Ani Necklace
Alex and Ani is one of my favorite jewelry companies for a few reasons. They’re good quality, their inventory includes styles to meet a variety of different budgets, and their jewelry has meaning behind them.
Most of their jewelry has a symbol or charm on them that has a some sort of meaning behind it. For example, if you want to channel a particular energy, like growth, strength, or wisdom, there is a different collection of jewelry for that. Alex and Ani jewelry make perfect gifts! In fact, the necklace I’d like to share with you today was a gift from a friend when I was going through a major life transition.
This necklace is from their Path of Life collection which is intended to remind you that life is a journey. We each choose our own path—and these choices create our future. Every twist, turn, and miraculous detour has its purpose. This was significant for me because I was going through a phase where I needed to always be reminded that everything happens for a reason!
What’s also great about Alex and Ani necklaces is that the majority of them have adjustable chains. You can wear the short or long, which makes them the perfect accessory to match whatever style you’re going for. This particular necklace is under $90, but totally worth it for the versatility. Again, I think Alex and Ani makes excellent gifts for friends or family members because there really are so many thoughtful and meaningful design options.
Faux Ear Cuffs
If you’re like me, and would LOVE to get more ear piercings but never actually pull the trigger, these ear cuffs are for you! They’re the perfect accessory because they make you look more “put together” if that makes sense. When I wear my hair back, sometimes I feel it makes me look like I didn’t want to put in any effort to get ready. Which, more often than not, is the only reason why I wear my hair back (lol). But, these little ear cuffs really do make it look like you intended to wear your hair back because they make everything look so chic and badass.
You don’t need ear piercings for these ear cuffs. They just clip onto your ear. If you have small ears like me, you may find they can slip off if you’re constantly touching your ear. I’ve never once had an issue with the thick one but the criss-cross one is so dainty it can fall off easier. Either way, I think they’re super cute and worth a try if you’re looking for a little something extra. If you’re possibly thinking about getting another ear piercing, this is a good transition as well.
Hoop Earrings
Hoop, there it is! Hoops are back y’all! But, let me get one thing straight. These are not the kind J-Lo would wear in 2002. You gotta be conscious of the hoop size and be sure not to go TOO big. I love these gold hoops because they’re super lightweight! I have really small ears so I have to be conscious of the weight of my earrings, otherwise, my ear lobes will hurt. When I wear these, I don’t even notice that I’m wearing them!
Simple Chain
A simple chain necklace, in my opinion, is a must. It’s perfect for layering around other necklaces and really elevates any look! In all honesty, though, I don’t think this is something to spend a ton of money on. In the end, they’re all the same to me. This one is from Target.
Cartier Dupe Bracelet
If you know me at all, you know I LOVE a good designer dupe! I don’t typically spend money on designer clothes or accessories and would much prefer an affordable look-a-like. This one is practically identical to the Cartier Love bracelet (which retails for $5k +) but for less than $20! It’s classic, beautiful, and by far my favorite bracelet! I wear it every day! Can you believe this is an Amazon find?
Charm Earrings
These are probably my favorite earrings ever because they are soooooo fun! They are definitely a dupe for the Jude Frances charm earrings (which retail for $350) but this pair of Amazon charm earrings are only $12! Steal of a century if you ask me!
