by Nia King, Provenance Fine Things –
Are you really fully dressed without jewelry? Absolutely not, and our prehistoric ancestors with their shell and fishbone necklaces would agree. Jewelry is the staple of your ensemble, the icing on the cake, the way to transform a basic outfit to special. With shine and sparkle at the top of the December agenda, we need feel-good pieces at the ready and boy do we deserve it! You may already be racing out donned head to toe with unworn-for-ages treasures, skipping and cartwheeling to the nearest party, dinner, neighbour’s, mask in tow, forgetting to put on clothes!
The past few years have certainly seen a shift in our jewelry wearing, focusing on the style of face masks and choice of hand sanitizer instead. Some may have stopped wearing jewelry altogether, but now that’s changing, bringing us joy.
Big, small, real or fake – how lucky are we to have it all gloriously available in many shapes and styles to take your look from simple to simply fabulous. If you’re investing in precious gems or affordable quality costume pieces, today’s designers have us covered with stunning crystals, glass, resins, metals and manmade stones. The key is to wear what feels great to you!
Layering pieces is a favourite. Different lengths and shapes of chains worn together; a mix of bangles and bracelets; stacked rings and multiple ear piercings are all on trend. Whether your style is a diamond stud like Megan, Adele-style hoops, Audrey’s pearls, rock-chic Kate Moss or full-on Beyonce glam, make it work for you and the look you’re aiming for.
Consider earrings carefully and choose them to flatter your features and make your eyes sparkle; they are the most visible piece to the person opposite you. If your outfit is busy, add a beautiful statement ring to catch the light, especially if you talk with your hands! Another wonderful trend is ring stacking. There are no rules – across the hands or upwards; mixing metals; adding coloured crystals and different shapes as you go.
Bare arms need bracelets, exotic or simple, layered or solo. We love stacking bangles with a mix of pearls or crystals … gorgeous! If you are a chilly type, a wide cuff looks stunning worn over the sleeve of your knit. Add a statement ring, groomed nails and classic hoops for a polished, classy look.
What about the forgotten brooch? No longer are they fuddy-duddy. Pin it onto a masculine blazer lapel; add to the side hip of a dress; pin to your evening clutch or use to fasten the button of a cardigan. They can really liven things up in the most unique way.
Lastly, with a little more skin showing after some serious hibernation, consider metals and stones that complement your skin tone, not just your outfit. Silver, gold, brushed gold, rose gold, cool or warm tone crystals, different shades of pearls … focus on which colours bring out your best. Gone are the days of wearing one kind of metal. There were no rules for shells and fishbones, after all.
So for those nights out with colleagues and friends, family dinners, date nights, neighbourhood gatherings or special nights at home – whatever your dress-up style, be confident and make it special. Let your beautiful, unique self shine through, feel fabulous and leave your sparkle wherever you go.
