By: Derrick Cruise

So, you want to jazz up your autumn/winter look with a little jewelry? Good idea. The winter blues are a bit of a downer, and spicing up your mundane winter wardrobe might be just what the doctor ordered to keep your mood upbeat and optimistic.

But, a lot of people aren't exactly sure which jewelry to pair with which outfit, how to wear certain styles, or which pieces fit best with their pre-existing wardrobe.

• You and the Necklace: Necklaces are a great way to add flair to a plain outfit or put the finishing touches on a dressier look. When choosing a necklace to wear with an everyday outfit, go for something that's simple and on a longer chain. Pendant or locket style necklaces are great with a pair of jeans and a sweater. Stores like Forever 21, New York and Company or JC Penney have great necklaces at an affordable price and in a diverse range of styles.

• You and Earrings: Earrings can be a little tricky sometimes. It can be hard to find a good balance of quality and price. Either you get 16 pair for 99 cents, or end up paying $30 for a pair. The right style of earring can also be hard to pin down. They seem to be either over the top or woefully dull. Choose an earring style that's subtle but interesting for more casual outfits. Something like a metal rose, simple pearl or shiny stud is a good way to go. For dressing up an outfit try something quirky and dangly and for dressy outfits do a simple sparkly stud or plainer dangly earring. Thrift stores usually have unique earrings at an affordable price and they're easily cleaned if you're concerned with germs. Department stores typically have fantastic sales a few times of year on dressier earrings; and you can catch them for cheap if you pay attention to ads or shop around holiday seasons.

• You and Bracelets: Bangles, bracelets, whatever you want to call them, they can easily surmount to a look that screams, too much! When choosing bracelets and bangles for everyday wear, use restraint. Try to stick to one chunky bangle or 3-5 slimmer bracelets per wrist. It's okay to wear bracelets on both wrists, but try to avoid anything too loud, if that's the case.

• You and Rings: Rings are an under-rated accessory. They can add a lot of fun to a standard outfit and are pretty cheap. Huge statement cocktail rings are fun for going out, while slimmer rings with an interesting print or texture are subtle and good if you want a straight-forward look. Casual rings are easy to find at boutiques, or stores like H&M for an affordable price.

Faux Pas?

The only faux pas you have to avoid with jewelry is the danger of over-doing it. When in doubt, remember that less is more. If you wear a decorative necklace, choose subtle earrings and vice versa.

Derrick is a typical guy who has spent a substantial and unfortunate amount of time shopping with his girlfriend for clothing, jewelry and high-heeled shoes. He is adamant about spreading his unwanted knowledge to others and also about eating ice cream cones.