With the start of the school year comes many, many invitations. Whether it’s to house warmings, frat parties, or even just a night out at the bar, there is always something going on. And with this great responsibility (because socializing is a great responsibility) comes long periods of time in front of the closet deciding what to wear, throwing clothes all over your room, then avoiding the giant pile of discarded outfits as you run around the room looking for hair pins to tuck back those bangs.

And when that’s all done and you’ve found the perfect look, you stop and realize you still need accessories for it. Sigh.

Well allow me to clue you in on the best fashion secret you’ll ever hear: the fabulous statement ring.

Statement rings serve several different purposes.  First and foremost, they can act as a solo accessory, easily adding excitement and interest to your outfit.  They can also work as a conversation piece, opening the door to fashionable females (“OMG, where did you get that?!”)  and desirable dudes just looking for a reason to talk to you (“Whoa, that’s a ring…”). And lastly, if anyone tries to mess with you, taking on of these puppies to the face would most definitely leave a mark. Fashion and function? Now that’s what I’m talking about.

[Click on the image for more information.]

Cocktail rings add elegance and glamour to any ensemble. Celebs like Catherine Heigl and Jamie Lynn Sigler rock them on the red carpet (above), but you don’t need a formal event to show off your bling. Cocktail rings can make a simple outfit, like a sweater with jeans and heels, pop as well.

According to WiseGeek.com, cocktail rings became popular during US prohibition. At cocktail parties, they flaunted the fact that women were drinking illegally (but fashionably). Prohibition is no longer in effect (thank GOD), but big, bold cocktail rings are still in style. And we are grateful.

For most rings, the bigger the stone the better. You want to draw attention to it! However, to keep it from looking ridiculous if you have small hands, search for rings that don’t extend any farther than the bottom of your knuckle. And while most people wear cocktail rings on their right ring finger, they look chic when worn on your index finger, too.

Don’t blow all your cash on a cocktail ring, though! You can find fake stones for almost nothing, and many real stones for under $200, if you feel like a splurge. Here are some rings that fit every budget: