It is called the global recession. Some of my friends would rather call it the pocket crunch; they say it’s getting a little too personal. Bottom line- it has a way of forcing us all to cut back on our expenses leaving most deprived of some of the better things life offers.

Whoever came up with the cliché: where there is a will there is a way was so right. When it comes to fashion, we always find ways of looking great for less.  Just because you can no longer afford the latest in fashion doesn’t mean that trends should pass you by.

2009 has been the year of big jewellery. Big necklaces and bangles are so in vogue and they don’t cost much. Spice up a simple dress, t-shirt or blouse with a big colourful necklace and bangle. These come in various colours and will be sure to jazz up your outfit any day.

The secret to this look though is to go slow on the other accessories.  The big necklace will look more elegant if you paired it up with small earrings or none at all especially if your hair is on its best behaviour.

For any look to work, you must create a theme and then let everything build around it. Big jewellery is a good start for making a fashion statement. Simplify the clothes.

Avoid complicated necklines and voluminous silhouettes. They will compete with your jewellery, making the look appear over-worked. A statement necklace looks great with a basic shift dress or a plain top with a high neckline.

Remember, it’s a statement necklace, so let it do the talking.

Ok Kigali city, I know most of us here are conservative dressers and we are so afraid of trying anything out of the ordinary.

However, to enjoy life we need to want to try out new things. Life gets so boring when we stick to the same routine.

I am not asking anyone to dress inappropriately, but we can make dressing up fun without looking outrageous.

So let’s go get some of those oversized necklaces and bangles and have fun while at it. It doesn’t cost much but as they say; the best things in life are free or in this case cheap.

Ends