Jewellery is, of course, a wonderful accessory. The possibilities are limitless – from expensive ‘heirloom pieces’ that you wouldn’t dare wear without at least two extremely large armed bodyguards, to cheap and cheerful (some might say tacky) market-stall junk, and every price level in-between. There are hand-made items for something individual, or you can even try your hand at making something yourself, with a vast range of craft items available in shops or on the Internet.
It is true that the right piece of jewellery can change an outfit, or complete it. Most of us probably haven’t perfected the art of ‘capsule dressing’, as seen in those articles that advise you how to pack enough clothes for a month’s holiday in a bag the size of your mobile phone. All you need to do is add the right necklace/ earrings / tiara, and your outfit is utterly transformed, taking you from shopping trips to sightseeing to dinner with that charming man who picked you up in the museum … now, back to the real world.
With jewellery, it is important to match it to the occasion. Turning up to the school sports day looking like you expect to be snapped by the paparazzi is somewhat excessive, unless you are Victoria Beckham, in which case wearing a red-carpet outfit with jewellery worth more than the average house would be expected of you. Few women would think it worth wasting time selecting just the right pair of earrings, or wearing valuable rings if they are popping to the supermarket or doing the cleaning. Furthermore, it is guaranteed that adorning oneself with a mountain of ‘bling’ would be entirely inappropriate if you work in a bank or a funeral parlour.
However, putting on a necklace can alter the look of a top or dress, and there is no doubt that it can be a lot of fun. As well as choosing something appropriate to the occasion, it is wise to pick an item that complements the outfit you are wearing, and your personality. Someone who is shy and retiring would feel deeply uncomfortable in a bold necklace, and this would show in their demeanour. As a result, the necklace would not suit them. They would be better off opting for something more discreet. A more flamboyant character, however, would be able to wear a large necklace in bright colours, or with an original style, because their personality would allow them to carry it off.
In conclusion, jewellery needs to be chosen with a sense of occasion and a little style. If you don’t like jewellery, there is simply no point wearing it, but it can add that little something to a plain outfit. In addition, there is a difference between daytime and party items. Above all, wear something that you love, and the sparkle will be there.
