Five Pieces Under $50 to Spice Up Your Wardrobe

JCrew.com

​It has been one weird winter here in Houston, with few days cold enough to warrant a coat but many warm enough to reach for shorts and sundresses. In the middle of this weather-less wasteland, one hardly knows which season to shop for, and yet we have felt the need to find a few pieces to freshen up the wardrobe. It's a little late to be buying winter pieces, and perhaps a bit early to dream of the sweltering days of summer, so we went hunting for some well-priced investment pieces that will work year-round. Any one of these would make a cute Valentine's Day gift, too.

Setting a budget of $50 or less per piece, we set ourselves to the difficult task of buying pretty things. Yay!

Linen Wrap from J.Crew

We love this wrap in citrus lime, but oceanfront and azalea are also flattering colors with most any complexion. A wrap can translate quickly into a scarf, perfect for going in and out of air-conditioned spaces, and stows easily in a handbag. ($49.50)

For Him: J. Crew crinkled wool scarf in plaid or stripes. ($39.50)

Neon ruffle-trim cardigan from Gap

gap.com

​You can never have enough cardigans, especially in Houston -- they are perfect for layering in winter and to keep on hand in summer when the air conditioning in every building is on full-blast. This cute sweater from Gap has an elongating V-neck and the trim provides a pop of color; light brown with neon pink or gray with lime green. ($49.95)

For Him: Gap outside seam cardigan in gray or black. ($49.95)

Kiehl's Essence Oil

Think fashion only appeals to the eye? Think again. Choosing a signature scent is as fashion-forward as choosing a signature bag or coat. These Kiehl's Essence Oils are unisex, portable and concentrated for long-lasting results -- very travel-friendly, too. Choose from Musk, Coriander, Vanilla, Chinese Flower, Pour Homme, Cucumber, Pear, Amber and Gardenia. Layer with each other, or fragrances from your own collection to create something completely your own. ($26 each)