Wear the color of the year without breaking your budget

Goodbye Tangerine Tango (I won’t miss you at all), hellooooooo Emerald! Pantone’s 2013 Color of the Year is a beauty: rich emerald green that can shine in your wardrobe and home all year long. Pantone describes it as “A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony.” I can’t help but agree—there’s something both soothing and striking about emerald.

It’s tempting to grab this hue everywhere you see it, but that’s not exactly wallet-friendly. And since popular colors change as fast as you can get another dress over your head, I’m a fan of taking it easy unless this is your favorite color ever.

(It might be my favorite color ever. Stay tuned.)

Make room for emerald in your wardrobe by trying any of the accessories you see above. They can be as inexpensive as you prefer! Remember, fashion repeats itself and you’re likely to find this vibrant shade in secondhand shops as well as your favorite discount spots. This Fashionista’s best bet? Choose one from each of these categories (just don’t wear them all at once!):

Wrap Up… in a lightweight scarf that you can wear well into spring and summer. Find a belt you’ll be happy to show off around a black dress or with work ensembles. Choose faux or leather gloves perfect for driving, public transport adventures, or snowy walks.

Carry On… with a bag that’s not quite a statement. A wristlet can jazz up a black or camel bag—or simply dress up your arm. An emerald tote doesn’t have to be leather, so look for canvas and nylon as spring warms up. A no-nonsense crossbody bag can become a personal classic.

Slip Into… a bold, bright nail color to be a bargain trend-stealer. Grab a pair of emerald flats now—you’ll wear them out by next winter, when you can trade for a new hue. Look for fun jewelry in either statement or more delicate varieties.

How will you wear emerald green this year? Do you give this choice a thumbs-up, or will you skip it?