Daily Obsession: Braided and Rope Accessories

A little texture always makes a basic more interesting. Braided and rope details on accessories give pieces a vintage look, but generally avoid falling into the Retro Betty trap.

$100 and Under

These Rachel Leigh Olivia bow earrings are perfect basic gold studs without the yawn factor. $50

This Juicy Couture bangle set combines tiny rope details with pearl and turquoise beads. $98

I have a love of wide waist belts that approaches Tyra Banks-like levels, and this braided double buckle belt is a great wardrobe staple. $19.99

The Mid-Rangers

Proof that big gold chains can be relatively subdued: Kenneth Jay Lane’s Gold Twist Necklace features textured links and a nice long opera length. $108 (orig. $135)

Gold vermeil chain is interwoven with braided leather in this CC Skye “good girl gone bad” necklace. $143.66 (orig. $234)

If you want to go literal but remain fab, this metal mesh necklace twists hand painted silver plate chains to give a rope-like appearance. $128

The Spendy Picks

I always have this big (and to date unexecuted) plan to find the perfect chic summer hat to wear around, and this Eugenia Kim Panama fedora, with its buckled hemp braid, comes pretty darn close. As seen on Cameron Diaz. $295

I love the deconstructed braid on this Peter Som suede belt. $395

Well, just looking never hurt anyone. Channel your inner window shopping Holly Golightly with this vintage 18K gold Tiffany’s necklace. $5000