Trendy rhinestone look need not break the bank

>> Everything Bling

While some people can strut about with Judith Leiber's Swarovski crystal originals, and others can afford customization, there are ways to get the look for less, even if that means settling for paper-backed "Bling" in a box.

At Best Buy, you can pick up a pack of 300 shiny self-adhesive "Bling" rhinestonelike decals in shiny silver, pink, aqua, purple or red for $9.99. Just stick 'em on your iPod or cell phone. There's no mess or glue to deal with, and if your unsteady hands drop a dot in the wrong place, just lift it up and reposition it.

The best thing about this instant bling is that when you tire of the color, or need to swap your phone or iPod for the newest model (self-obsolescence is triggered every couple of months), you won't feel the loss attached to a pricey custom job.

At craft shops such as Creations by You at 1801 Liliha St., self-adhesive, iron-on Swarovski crystals also make it possible to add contemporary sparkle to fabric so anyone can dress up their denim, T-shirts and tank tops.

The crystal studs come in four sizes, from subdued spots not much bigger than this o, to stones measuring about 4 mm. The cost ranges from $7.50 to $13 for single-color packs of 100 to 144 stones, with greater discounts for volume purchases.

For the artistically challenged, ready-made crystal appliqués are also available in such girlie motifs as butterflies, hearts and flowers, from $4 to $55.

"We've taught a lot of people, and they're having fun making their clothes sparkly," said Creations by You designer Val Hirata.

Call 536-5255.