In the words of Giorgio Armani 'A strong piece of jewellery can make a simple outfit look elegant'.

The current economic backdrop results in less frequent spending and more thought being put into our more expensive purchases, is investing in statement jewellery a more cost effective way of looking glamourous?

Keeping up with seasonal trends can be exhausting, not to mention costly, and it takes a disciplined shopper to ensure they are buying key investment pieces as well as the latest must have item.

Keeping the outfit simple with either a simple season-to-season LBD or your favourite jeans, a simple cami and and tailored jacket then adding some statement bling is a sure fire way to look elegant. Allow your jewellery to take centre stage.

Who could forget Angelina Jolie's emerald drop earrings at the Oscars in 2009? Her dress was black, strapless and floorlength, her hair was pinned back to show off her stunning Lorraine Schwartz creations. The look proved a hit for Jolie, all eyes were drawn to the stunning green jewels that hung from her ear lobes.

For an evening out, pair some tailored shorts with a simple white t-shirt ( Reiss do some fantastics one with silk panels) your favourite summer shoes and a bib necklace. Olivia Palermo revolutionized the bib necklace in 2010 when she collaborated with Roberta Freymann on these beautiful pieces. Alternatively a cocktail ring works, this turquoise YSL ring would look fantastic with a jeans and white shirt combo or your favourite white dress

We've seen a lot more jewellery designer's creations gracing the pages of our favourite fashion magazines and their eye-catching pieces are fast replacing designer shoes at the top of the fashionista's wish list.

Heres a few of my favourites; including home grown talent, Merle O'Grady. Her edgy designs have featured in Harpers Bazaar and Elle magazine to name but a few and the likes of Beyonce, Rihanna and Cheryl Cole have all been spotted in her designs.

Currently I'm craving a custom piece from Spanish designer Anton Heunis, 'Modern Vintage' has become his trademark and UK Vogue's May Edition featured a desert style shoot where his jewellery featured throughout.
 

Olivia Palermo looks to LuLu Frost for her bling fix. She's a huge fan of Frost's 100 year necklace which she has worn dressed up with a shift dress and blazer and down with a nautical style sweater and her trusty fur gilet.