Don’t follow the crowd!
Obvious, but worth repeating. Of course, there’s a satisfying buzz when snapping up the latest bangle, featured in every 'What’s Hot' article for the season, or adding to our cartilage the coolest new Maria Tash mini hoop. It’s within our comfort zone. And if it’s a brand name (particularly Cartier) it retains a decent amount of value. So, fair enough. But, try not to let playing it safe allow you to be passive. Try not only to default to multiple little studs in more and more places or layered necklaces bought from the same designer as all your friends. It’s always good to have a few pieces that are exclusive to you. Unexpected. Find yourself a handful of those and treasure them. They will, undoubtedly, be the pieces that people notice, comment on and I’m sure they will, in time, become your favourites.
Go bigger. Bigger, sometimes, its better!
Statement earrings. I think you should have at least one pair. I haven’t been a long-time statement earring wearer myself, I didn’t want to sacrifice the comfort of my lobes. But they give more than they take, I promise you. Particularly large vintage clip-ons. I don’t think you can do better than Chanel 1990s. 80s can be a bit much, but if you really want to turn heads, then do it. Or look to Grasilver for Scandinavian fabulousness. Carry your statement earrings around in your handbag and if your average day suddenly includes an unexpected drink after work, you are immediately ready to transition. It’s an outfit changer with absolutely no effort. Statement earrings are essential. We know this. However, what you may not have considered, is that a statement necklace is also a winner. Hate them? Most people say to me that they ‘don’t like the feel of them’ - and I understand. But a strong necklace to give some edge to a floaty dress or with jeans and a T-shirt? It’s a good look on most people. Jennifer Gibson Jewellery is a good place to start looking - I love the vintage Givenchy charm necklace they currently have in stock. And a chunky cuff bracelet? You won’t know how you lived without all the compliments they attract. With the small disclaimer that it may well annoy you because it will keep getting caught in your sleeve when you try and put on or take off your jacket, and it will certainly clunk on your lap top when you’re typing. And if you have small wrists, the right one(s) can be hard to find but MDVII always has a stunning vintage collection. And these minor inconveniences are details. A substantial bracelet says that you’re confident. That you think outside the box. It’s a lot more original than a big ring. I say that as a 100% committed huge ring fan. But more people do big rings than big bracelets. Another advantage of big more generally, by the way, is that big means one piece. No faff. You don’t need to think about the rest of your jewellery. Heck, you barely need to worry about your clothes. One knock ‘em dead piece and that’s it. Ready to go. So much bang for your buck. Big jewellery does not mean big boned (ridiculous). Big jewellery is for anyone who dares. And she who dares, wins.
Mix & Match.
I should have put this first because, really, it’s the key. I would always, always recommend mixing and matching vintage costume, fine jewellery, contemporary designs, high street and antique finds. Just keep the vibe consistent. Mix yellow gold with silver. Start trying on jewellery that you have never so much as glanced at before. Seek out some YSL, Dior and Chanel costume pieces, any decade from the 50s to the end of the 90s. Did I mention Chanel? And Pierre Cardin 1960s. I’m never without mine. Save up if you fall in love with something out of your price range. I have a client who’s been coming to me for years, who always buys one earring at a time to make it manageable when she’s investing. I recommend modern designs inspired by past eras. Experiment. Be brave.