Choosing jewelry is all about Your Style, Your Story and Your Memories!
I believe jewelry is the most personal thing that a woman can wear.
Adding new jewelry to your collection is not only fun but it can change your outfit’s look. It can also have an impact on your energy, mood and outlook of yourself! As you wear jewelry, notice how it attracts attention to your face, neck, arms and hands.
As a designer, I’d like to share a few tips with you to consider as you build your jewelry wardrobe.
Traditional vs. Modern
In the past, traditional or classic jewelry was thought of only for grand events such as marriage or for gifting to close family. Modern or contemporary styles were reserved for functions such as parties. While there is still a distinction between traditional jewelry designs and modern designs, the time and place of when and where to wear them is not limited any longer. However, traditional jewelry is classic which transcends trends and can last centuries to be worn and gifted from mother to children. Modern designs have also become traditional in a way, yet they tend to change with the current trends. You really don’t have to choose one or the other. Instead, mix and match both styles!
Type of Jewelry
There are so many jewelry options. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, watches, and rings are the most common. All jewelry come in different materials, shapes, widths, lengths, expression and exploration.
Metal and Stones
The most commonly used are gold, silver and bronze. Within these, there are many variants: 14k, 18k, 24k Gold, Pure silver, .925 sterling silver, Goldfill, gold-plated, silver-plated, base metal. No one type is considered best, however the value of solid Gold is the most expensive metal. Stones are almost limitless and include diamonds, pearls, druzy and semi-precious stones. I use .925 Sterling Silver for most of my designs, but you will also see Gold fill and Gold plated (also called vermeil) over Sterling. Jewelry artisans have used these materials for centuries to create pieces of art that you can wear.
Your style
I don’t believe there are too many rules you need to follow when choosing your jewelry style. If it makes you happy, makes you smile when you see it in your jewelry box, adds to your personal expression when worn, then I say go for it!
There a just a few things that I suggest, such as:
1. Your jewelry should accent your outfit, not compete with it.
2. Don’t be nervous about layering necklaces or stacking bracelets. It adds interest and texture.
3. Try to avoid being matchy-matchy. Wearing the same stone is great, just wear slightly different designs that accent each other.
4. Wear your jewelry with every outfit! A few layered necklaces, earrings, stack a couple bracelets and before you know it, your jeans and t-shirt just became a finished, stylish look!
5. Most of all, have fun with your jewelry and accessories! Make your own style!
Skin Tone
Skin tone is a factor that you may take into account when choosing the metal color or certain stone colors. I have found that gold and silver jewelry will look beautiful on most skin tones, and it really comes down to the design of the jewelry more often. Dainty jewelry for example, may not be as noticeable on certain skin tones. If you’re not sure, I would love to answer any questions you have!
Mix & Match
Jewelry is an expression and in doing so, you can and should wear many jewelry styles together! Gone are the days of only wearing Gold jewelry if you have a Gold wedding band. It is fun to mix & match styles… try layering classic hoop earrings and pendant necklace with a bohemian mala necklace that has splashes of gorgeous colored stone beads. Mix your Gold and Silver bracelets together to bring a beautiful mix of styles and contrast together.
Occasion
We have so many occasions to consider and the wonderful thing about occasions is that they happen to us everyday! So don’t wait for something big or important to wear your jewelry. Each moment is an occasion! Taking kids to school, running errands, work, meeting a friend for lunch, special dinner out on the town, or even going to the grocery store. Put that stunning tennis bracelet on and enjoy it wherever you are!
I love so many jewelry designers and styles and I’m continuously swooning over new pieces I see. My passion is designing classic jewelry that you can wear everyday and help you create your own personal collection of jewelry! You will notice that many of Cassiano Designs collections can intermix with each other, so it is easy to add your next design. Shop the new Jaqueline Collection now available.
shop at www.cassianodesigns.com
Post written by: Janelle Cassiano
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