Black diamonds are the essence of contemporary elegance and have become more popular than ever on today’s fashion scene – most notably since Victoria’s Secret’s release of the ultra luxurious 2008 Black Diamond Fantasy Miracle Bra®.

But don’t let such razzle-dazzle blind you into thinking you must spend millions ($5,000,000 to be exact) to sparkle in the spotlight. Listed below are a few stunning and way more affordable black diamond jewelry alternatives that are sure to enhance your look.

Start off your black diamond collection (because it will turn into one before you know it) with a pair of classic princess-cut black diamond studs. They are understated yet refined, so you can wear them from business hour to happy hour, to late-night delight.

On those hot nights out on the town, complement your little black dress with an eye-catching black diamond fashion ring: a unique design that will reflect even the dimmest evening lights from every angle.

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I am sure I am not the only woman who always seems to be single by the time Valentine’s Day rolls around each year. I, like many others, have wallowed in V-day depression in the past.

It’s hard for single people this time of year when advertising bombards us with images of happy couples gifting one another with luxury gifts to show their undying love for one another.

Why not ignore the advertising and lovey-dovey couples this year and indulge yourself?  That’s right, gift yourself…who says that you cannot? There is no rule against gifting yourself every once in a while.

Here are some gift ideas for the single gal that I have found online.

Why not make yourself a yummy chocolate goodie using this cookbook? The Deep Chocolate cookbook is only $19.95 from Fredflare.com

Making your own chocolate goodies is better than getting the semi-stale boxes of chocolate from the supermarket from a last-minute shopping boyfriend, right?

Next, why not light some candles to relax? Like these:

This 6-piece candle set from Overstock.com is only $55.99 and would set the mood for a long soak in the bath.

Once the candles have set the mood, it’s time to prepate a bath with wonderful scented bubble bath.

A Diet You can Live With Gift Set by Philosophy at Sephora.com gives you three great scents to add to your tub: Pink Frosted Layer cake, Creme Brulee, or Fudge Cake. Quite an indulgence for just $30.00.

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Last August, my sister had a baby girl and I became an aunt for the first time. To top it off , my sister decided to name the beautiful little girl after me! As soon as I heard of the pregnancy, I started developing an interest in great-looking and fun baby accessories. Who says you can’t have an adult sense of humor about all things infant?

To wear

From top left: Skull Bib, Raised by Wolves onesie, iPoo onesie, cute baby shoes, My Mom is Hotter than Yours onesie, and My Daddy Rocks onesie.

To Cuddle

From top left: Ludic the Woollyhoodwink, Billy the Tuff Bunny, Drunk Underwear Man (I wonder why its no longer for sale…?), and Bop’N Beep.

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Are you one of those people who can go into a book store and literally get lost for hours? If you are, welcome to the club! My weakness is the Design/Architecture aisle; there is so much inspiration I can easily pass hours there. This seems like the perfect time of year to share a few of my favorite books, since I’m sure some of you have some design lovers on your list. What could be better than an inspiring book as the ultimate present…if your giftee is anything like me, you know they will continue to look at your gift for years to come!

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Unless you know exactly what pair she wants, shopping for a shoe addict can be tricky! Shoe sizes vary from brand to brand, and sometimes, what you think she might like might be a little off. Luckily, there are tons of other shoe- and feet-related gifts that she’ll be sure to enjoy.

SpareSoles are perfect for fashionistas who forgo comfort for style and sport killer heels (emphasis on “killer”) on party nights. (We all do it!) Light and portable, they’re easy to tuck away into an evening bag or clutch. While they don’t provide much support, they’re sure to relieve achy feet from four and five-inch heels during formal events and functions.

Help your pal make the most of the shoe collection she already has by giving her a pair of shoe clips. Shoe clips are an easy way to add new life and flair to a plain pair of shoes. Try Absolutely Audrey or Shoeworthy – some are even made out of vintage brooches and pendants!

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It’s that time of year again…when the jolly man dressed in red sneaks in during the middle of the night to leave gifts under the tree. It is also the time when people start dropping hints to friends/relatives about what they want for Christmas.

What happens when the friend/relative doesn’t drop hints and they are the type of person who isn’t into the latest American Idol Winner CD or fuzzy slippers as gifts? You know, the loved one who walks to the beat of their own drummer and is of the creative mindset. What do you do then?

I have been wandering the Internet for the past few weeks looking for inexpensive gift ideas for those types of people because, well, being a photographer, I am one myself. So let’s see if I can help you out a bit.

For The Artist:

These colored pencils are made out of recycled Chinese newspapers! The come in their own tube for storage and are fun, as well as functional. They are also only $10!

This book offering tips on how to be creative when making cards and envelopes for postal mail is perfect for those artists who love to keep in touch with faraway friends. It has 25 different creative projects for those who love to write snailmail and is only $20.95!

For The Writer:

Every writer, professional or someone who just loves to journal, loves to have a place to write down all their thoughts and ideas. Why not get them a classy blank book to capture all the ideas running around in their heads? This blank, unlined, moleskine journal is only $15.00.

This book is for the writer who wants to publish their own books, zines, graphic novels, or any other form of book on their own. It is full of ideas and resources to get the writer published and it is only $21.95.

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Men seem to have trouble deciding on what to get their significant others. Unless they have a specific list, the only things that come to mind are gift certificates, perfume or electronics. Mind you: those things aren’t bad, just a little staid.

If your boyfriend seems stressed about gifts, show him this link. Most of these gifts are less than $20 and all are covetable in their own right.

1. Stocking – This plastic to-go cup is environmentally friendly and budget-conscious too. You can save up to $30 a week making your own coffee at home, but still carry the familiar cup in your hand. $20.00
2. Christmas Eve – The Night Before Christmas was originally titled A Visit from St. Nicholas. Find an early edition copy for a lovely and nostalgic Christmas Eve gift. $10-25
3. Stocking – J.Crew makes lovely gloves, like this yellow fingerless pair. Slip the mittens over your fingers if you get chilly! $12.50
4. Christmas Eve – Christmas Eve pajamas are a must-buy. Make them sexy, but with some holiday-ish print. Victoria’s Secret has great options. $39.50
5. Under The Tree – Take tons of photos with this adorable pink fisheye camera. $48
6. Under The Tree – More of a couple present, this wine accessories kit is a great deal, comes in a nice boxed set and is the perfect thing to bring along on a spring picnic. $12.50
7. Stocking – Starbucks has this great gift set of holiday blend coffee featuring characters from A Charlie Brown Christmas. $40
8. Under The Tree – With everyone so busy these days, it’s hard to find time to read a long, exhaustive novel. Try a collection of short stories for quick pick-me-ups. $12
9. Under The Tree – To make perfume buying easy, get this collection of popular scent samples. $50
10. Under The Tree – Every girl loves shoes. Just find the right size! $48
11. Under The Tree – Turtlenecks are a wardrobe must-have, especially in the winter, as you can wear them over and over. Try them under summer dresses to extend your wardrobe when the snow flies. $10 each
12. Stocking – Adorable gingham headbands at an amazing price. $2.80
13. Under The Tree – Every woman loves flowers, but try these more earthy, elegant arrangements for something different. $50
14. Christmas Eve – You must have slippers to go with your new Christmas pajamas. May I suggest these from Old Navy? I have them and adore them. $20
15. Under The Tree – The entire series of Sex and the City is the kind of decadent gift every woman wants, but would never buy for herself. Wrap it pretty! $95

Put your holiday gift anxieties to rest. Yes, the economy sucks, but there are plenty of things you can treat your loved ones to that won’t break the bank. Think items that can be used regularly, and easily incorporated into your loved one’s wardrobe or lifestyle.

1. Wine glasses

They’re the perfect gift for just about anyone, whether they drink wine or not. Sparkling cider or white wine alike can be enjoyed in this set of stemless Chardonnay tumblers (just $15)!

2. A Cozy Winter Accessory

Berets are totally on trend this winter, so I don’t think anyone on your gift list would be mad to unwrap this 100% cashmere topper. It comes in black and chocolate brown as well. At $25, you might wanna treat yourself to one as well.

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I’m trying to get started early on my Christmas shopping, and what better place than Etsy.com? I love that most items are homemade, and there are also plenty of cool vintage finds.

For My Sister:

This jeweled headband is made from vintage pieces, making it one-of-a-kind.

For My Mum:

My mom and dad have a black lab they love dearly, and my mother likes to find little home decor items or the like that have subtle appearances of their dog. She’d really like these adorable holiday greeting cards.

The vase is another good find: it’s all handmade porcelain, and the yellow interior would match the colors of the living room and sitting room in my parents’ home.

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