With a birthday around the corner, I am so thankful for what I’ve acquired: knowledge, experience, life changing adventures, relationships…and special pieces that are worth the extra investment. It’s taken me years to build an accessory collection I’m proud of and I’m happy to share some with you under $500 (along with a few I’m eyeing).

Mercedes Salazar 

Mercedes Salazar, a phenomenal Colombian jewelry designer, continues to inspire me with her colorful, exotic collection. While she studied the art of jewels and jewelry making in Mexico, she curates her pieces through preserving artisanal techniques back home in Bogota. A pair of her statement earrings will leave you feeling pretty and powerful (as she designed them to!). They’re one of my favorite jewelry investments and, I love taking mine with me when I travel – like I did here in Colombia. 

Rebecca de Ravenel 

Spending most of her childhood between Bahamas and Paris, Rebecca de Ravenel, formed her innate aesthetic, which remains deeply rooted in the tropics with a feminine touch. I love how her embroidered drop earrings are lightweight, chic and playful! My floral pair was perfect – the one I happen to wear on the day of my engagement (and recently here).

Mallarino 

Photography by KT Merry

Two sisters, Lucia and Isabella Bueno-Mallarino, draw their inspiration from their split time between Paris and native Colombia. That is why their design reflects a European spirit combined with traditional South American craftsmanship; pieces that have a stunning flora and fauna theme. I couldn’t resist this orchid pair.

Jennifer Behr

One of my everyday go-to’s, but you’ve probably already noticed in my #OOTD’s!

I think what is pretty unique about Jennifer Behr’s Brooklyn-based collection is that it speaks to her background in sculpture and art history. Her pieces are carefully crafted with Swarovski crystals, silk and a mix of elegant and edgy accents made for any special occasion. Probably why I also like wearing it almost everyday as seen this weekend here.

Xo, Stephanie