Style experts agree: Most outfits appear incomplete without jewelry. Necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings add essential finishing touches that polish off our looks. And while collecting heirloom and fine pieces is a fun and rewarding practice, cultivating a collection of classy-looking costume jewelry can help you expand your accessorization horizons. 

Not sure where to start? Here are some suggestions for affordable jewelry resources:

Antique malls

Nearly all antique stores and malls stock vintage and costume jewelry, and although anything with precious gems will set you back a pretty penny you can generally nab rhinestones, Bakelite, and plated pieces for $20 and under. Plenty of stores will also offer current jewelry items that look vintage-influenced or classic enough to sneak in under the radar. Thrift and consignment stores stock jewelry, too, but you're more likely to score big at antique malls.

BEST FOR: Brooches, paste/rhinestones, bangle bracelets, anything vintage

Etsy

This online artisan clearinghouse can be a bit daunting for newcomers, but it's worth spending some time with the highly effective search function. Many Etsy vendors sell vintage jewels, but even more offer original, handmade designs. You'll find everything from hammered copper cuff bracelets to chain macrame earrings, most at remarkably low prices. Start with some general search terms - onyx bracelet, multi-strand necklace, etc. - and see what turns up.

If you come across a vendor who is creating in your sought-after style, you can usually request a custom piece.

BEST FOR: Semiprecious gems, unique pieces, handmade, custom

Baublebar

A favorite of style mavens and bloggers alike, Baublebar focuses on trendy shapes and styles made from inexpensive materials. This is a great resource for bigger, statement-making pieces, although the site does stock some classic basics like pared-down bangle bracelets and sparkly stud earrings. Popular styles sell out quickly, but you can hop on a waitlist to be notified when they're back in stock.

BEST FOR: Statement necklaces, of-the-moment pieces, multicolored jewelry, rhinestones

Macy's

This department store has a surprisingly large selection of quality, inexpensive jewelry pieces, including items from Kenneth Cole, Lucky Brand, Michael Kors, and BCBGeneration. Although trendy pieces are always in stock, Macy's is a great resource for simple, classics like faux pearl necklaces, chunky chain bracelets, and hoop earrings.

BEST FOR: Affordable baubles from beloved brands, classic jewelry staples, amazing earrings for $25 or less

Garage sales

If you're up for a real jewelry adventure, consider making a weekend sweep of your neighborhood for local garage sales. This is definitely a hit-or-miss proposition, but most garage sales featuring clothing will also have a handful of jewelry items, many of which will sell for $5 or less. If you're seeking a specific piece, try another route, but if you're just trying to beef up your collection on a budget, spend a Saturday morning making the rounds.

BEST FOR: Beaded necklaces, trendy items from bygone eras, adventure picks

Amazon 

Since this website has slowly become The Everything Store, it's no surprise that jewelry bargains are scattered among the books, groceries, and car parts. Amazon's Fashion Jewelry section includes upscale lines like Kate Spade and Marc by Marc Jacobs, but also lesser-known, affordable jewelry brands including 1928 Jewelry, Kensie, and Betsey Johnson. (Johnson's baubles are considerably less spendy than her clothes.) Use the site's top-notch search functions to narrow the field.

BEST FOR: Everything

H&M

Bold and trendy rule the jewelry section at this fast-fashion retailer. Quality varies from piece to piece, but if you keep an eye out for flaws, chips, and missing stones, you can come away with some surprisingly durable items. A few understated pendant necklaces and stud earring sets are mixed in, but sparkly statement necklaces and shoulder-duster earrings dominate.

BEST FOR: Statement necklaces, trendy pieces, flashy earrings, anything chunky, layering jewelry

Flash Sales 

If you take part in online Flash Sales like MyHabit and Ideel, be sure to check for jewelry bargains. Most mainstream flash retailers include one or two jewelry vendors or collections every single day, and you can get mind-blowingly deep discounts on fine and costume jewelry, as well as designer watches. 

BEST FOR: Eye-catching but unknown brands, deep discounts on fine jewelry, cult favorites like nOir, Amrita Singh, and Chan Luu