It was the Worst of Times, It Was the Best of Accessories...

The older I get, and the longer I live in a fashionable city like New York, the more I realize that a complete look really comes down to the finishing touches. Now don't get me wrong, I love, LOVE designer clothes, but they are NOT in my budget every season (ok, at the end of season, on final mark-down, maybe). Designer accessories have disappeared from my budget as well, as I find a credit card balance is becoming less and less sexy. But just because your accessories don't cost a mint, doesn't mean they can't be fashionable, fabulous and statement making.

When it comes to accessorizing remember the Holy Trinity...
Shoes
Bag
Watch

These three accessories speak volumes about you, and therefore require the most investment, and here are my rules for making the most of those investments.
1. Buy the best you can afford. That doesn't mean dropping cash mindlessly, it means buying the BEST quality leather, construction or movement for the money. Quality shows.
2. Don't be afraid to shop sale or discount for these items. If they're classic styles, no one is going to call you out on having the Tory Burch flats in LAST season's color (if they do, you need to find new friends).
3. Don't feel like you have to stick to neutrals when it comes to bags and shoes. They are the cherry on the sundae. The cherry wouldn't be as exciting in a neutral.
4. When it comes to a watch, shop around. Buy a classic style that fits your wrist and lifestyle. Do some research. Avoid fake diamonds, overly shiny metals or faux ceramics. When not executed properly, these details scream cheap.
5. Don't buy something you can't afford or isn't "you". You won't wear it or if you do, you'll feel guilty and remorseful. And let's be honest, we all get enough guilt from [insert name of mother, boss, boyfriend].
6. Keep a "Holy Grail" list. These are the items you would buy if money was no object. These items say a lot about you. They reveal your true style. When you're out shopping for a new bag or pair of shoes, referring to your "holy grail" list will help you stay true to your style. Maybe you can't have these items today, or ever even have all of them, but they should remind you that you deserve beautiful things and should inspire you to work towards improving yourself, and rewarding yourself for your achievements (within reason). Obvious members of my list, Christian Louboutin pumps, Cartier Roadster Watch and Chanel bag.

Finally, remember that clothes and accessories are meant to highlight the person wearing them, not the other way around (except on a runway, and let's not even go there). So, taking the best care of yourself in these tough times is really the best accessory. Eat fresh food, do yoga or go for a run, laugh with friends, open a savings account. You'll feel better so you can look your best.