Jazzing Up Jewelry You Already Have

Whether you're on a budget or not it's nice to work with what you have and make something old new again. American Eagle has three great ideas for changing jewelry you already own into something fresh and exciting.

I just purchased these earrings! Take any pair you own and add little ribbon bows to get the same effect. If you find your ribbon is fraying on the ends, dab on a bit of Fray Check or another goo suitable for stopping fraying. My little pink bows are girlish and charming, but black bows or something with a stripe could make any pair earrings work with other styles.

Chains and layered necklaces are quite popular right now. I've seen several variations on this chain necklace, but I like how this one combines a large chain with a feminine ribbon. Any size of chain necklace would work and layering several gives you even more personalization. Don't already own a chain necklace? Wait till jewelry making materials are on sale at a craft store and pick up a length of chain and a closure; that's all you need for this simple necklace!

I've collected several brooches and pins both new and vintage. This ribbon brooch is another way to wear them. It's also a nice way to give an old, worn brooch new life. To make your own just fold a wider ribbon into a bow shape and hot glue so it will stay in shape. Use your brooch to pin both the brooch and ribbon to your shirt, bag, or pillow.