With the economy looking bleak, trend forecasters are noticing that fashion brands are changing up their fabrics and styles for fall to reflect more year-round wear. Another way to stretch your fashion budget is to look for double-duty pieces that can fulfill not one, but two needs. Not only will you be looking good, but you will be spending smart. Fashionista Jenn Falik shows how to save with versatile — and fashionable! — purchases.
Stilettos that turn into flats A combination of the perfect basic heel and the perfect basic flat not only gives you twice the style options, but it lightens your load on the morning commute. These are the first fully-functioning, adjustable-height high heel shoe for women, and they can go from work-appropriate pumps to commuter-practical flats in a snap, literally. Camileon Heels at zappos.com
A fragrance that is also a piece of jewelry These statement-making accessories come with an added bonus: beauty benefits. Carry your fragrance in an on-trend for spring cocktail ring; tote gloss and perfume with a purse charm, or add a tough edge to your look with a gold chain that hides a small eau de toilette spray. Plus, they make touch-ups so much simpler. Marc Jacobs Daisy Solid Perfume Ring, $30, sephora.com; Yves Saint Laurent Beaute Elle Charm, $56 at neimanmarcus.com; Diesel Fuel For Life, $75, www.nordstrom.com
A bracelet that also is a watch Some outfits beg for a bracelet, leaving little room for the practicality of a watch. With these styles — some looking like mod-inspired cuffs and others evoking classic charm bracelets — you get the best of both. Hidden in the design is a small timepiece, bringing a new meaning to being fashionably late. AK Anne Klein watches: $125 and up at macys.com; Armitron Charm Watches: $75 and up, armitron.com
A necklace that is also a bracelet, headband, belt or even a strap for a halter-style top
This is like the MacGyver of jewelry — one piece, many possibilities. Wear it as a necklace in a variety of styles to compliment looks ranging from polished professional to night-out festive. Or, attach a necklace from your jewelry stash to it and wrap it around your waist as a belt. Thread it through a halter dress to give an old piece a new look, or stick a scarf through the ends and tie it on like a headband. DanniJo necklace, $98 at dannijojewels.com
A wallet that doubles as a fashion-forward clutch for evening The less purse packing and unpacking you have to do, the better. Pick a wallet or a clutch that can keep your life easy by going from a day spent at the bottom of your bag to a night spent tucked under your arm. These have all the necessary attributes of a wallet — credit card slots, change purse, billfold — with the style factor of an evening bag. The Limited Accessories, $24, limited.com; Juicy Couture Clutches, $125 and up at juicystores.com