Accessories

If you're on the hunt for a new handbag, why not (metaphorically) travel back in time for a bit of mod arm-candy flair? We suggest this "throwback" option because we're pretty sure the retro-chic look is already gaining major momentum this year. Need proof? Just check out these bags straight from these Spring '13 runways: Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, and Marc Jacobs, to name a few. In order to curate a well-rounded list of '60s- and '70s-inspired bags, we paid extra attention to key details, like structured shapes, geo prints, top handles, and pretty hues that will complement almost anything in your closet. Behold the nine bags we instantly fell in love with, right this way.

We put Céline's Luggage Tote in the running for 2012's handbag of the year — other very qualified nominees included Fendi's 2Jours structured satchel, 3.1 Phillip Lim's Pashli bag, and Valentino's Rockstud oversize clutch — and it came out on top. Are we surprised? Not in the least. Why? Because nearly every street styler who strutted could be seen with one this year. Many opted for the larger size, while some fell for the adorable mini version. Two-toned, snakeskin, crocodile, leather, you name it — there were an array of finishes, and all were equally wow-inducing. Step inside to see how fashion insiders carried their statement totes this year, and draw inspiration from their cool outfits, even if you don't own a Céline yourself.

There's no getting around Winter for most of us (unless you live in Southern California or Florida, that is), and that means there's really no avoiding the Winter boot conundrum. It sounds a little something like this: how can I make these clunky snow boots look cute? Where can I find a pair of ankle boots that don't also look like mountain-man hiking boots? Trust us; we know it's a hard balance to strike — that fine line between fashionable and functional is too often blurred once the weather is in decline — but we know that this happy (shoe) medium does exist. With attention paid to essential cold-weather elements (namely, tough rubber/lug soles, shearling lining, and a waterproof finish), we scouted 10 pairs that promise to complement the rest of your outfit. Inside, you'll find a luxe rabbit-fur-lined iteration along with a wine-colored heel ready to take on the rainiest climates and a slick leather (yep, waterproof) moto boot. Click on for your Winter boot solution now.

This holiday season, don't let your fingers go bare (and we're not just talking about gloves and mittens). Dressing up your digits with a cocktail ring — or two! — is a small way to add a major statement to all your gorgeous party looks. During our hunt for the perfect rings, we were wowed by everything from art-deco-inspired pieces to high-shine styles and festive red-and-gold hues. Are you into chunky rings? There are plenty of those, too. Why limit yourself to statement necklaces and earrings? Let your hands do the talking with these 14 awesome cocktail rings to shop right now.

If there's one thing we can say for the cozier set of looks sent down the Fall '12 runways, it's that there's one common denominator involved: socks. Sure, they may not be the most glamorous of accessories, but they do provide an extra layer of warmth and make for perfectly sized stocking stuffers. Did we mention — if scrunched, styled, and worn with the right shoe — they can really make an outfit pop, too? Look to the Marc by Marc Jacobs lineup, which utilized classic tweedy knit socks to amp up its academia-chic references. Turn your attention to Victoria Beckham's luxe-meets-slouchy knee-high rendition (pictured), an example of how the dress-and-sock combo isn't just for school girls. Or, in a surprise twist, add a sexy lace edge to your heels with inspiration culled straight from Dolce & Gabbana's darker Baroque catwalk. Whether you're dressing for a snow day, your 9 to 5, or a night out on the holiday scene, there's a way to keep your socks fully integrated into the style equation — see 13 ways here.

It doesn't take a new dress to get party ready — sometimes all it takes is a few well-placed jewels and accessories to give your outfit a festive update. Not only are jewels and bags easy to add on to your outfit — making the whole work to play costume switch a lot less stressful — they're also not quite the investment a new outfit might be. That's especially the case with this crew of accoutrements, a collection of our favorite clutches, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings with just the right amount of sparkle — and an under $99 price point. Click on to shop some party-perfect pieces just in time for all of your holiday get-togethers.

Don't get us wrong: we're all for an arm party, especially when it comes to accessorizing a party dress — but as much as we love our tangle of neon bangles and colorful friendship bracelets, the onset of holiday dressing brings about the need for something. . . sleeker. We're giving you a crash course in piling on your cuffs, bangles, and baubles for a fun, party-friendly jewelry look that will amp up even the most basic Winter ensemble. Every season is a chance to switch things up, right? Click through to see three ways to heap your bracelets for maximum drama this season.