Inside: When To Go Showy And When To Go Subtle With Jewellery. Collaborative post.
Jewellery can be simple and plain or it can be big and bold. But just when do you choose between showy and subtle jewellery? This post explains when to wear each.
When to go subtle
Subtle jewellery includes things like stud earrings, simple chain necklaces and simple metal/rope bangles. The intention of this jewellery is to compliment an outfit without being too distracting.
Subtle jewellery is designed for everyday wear when you’re not trying to impress anyone but don’t want to feel naked by not wearing any jewellery. It’s likely to be the most appropriate jewellery in most formal workplaces. In fact, there may even be policies against certain flashy jewellery.
When to go showy
Showy jewellery (typically known as ‘statement jewellery’) includes items like a medallion necklace, a picture necklace, blingy drop earrings or a large ring. It’s jewellery designed to stand out from the rest of an outfit and make an impression.
Such jewellery is good for situations when you want to get noticed. For example, on your wedding day, you want to be the star attraction and so blingy jewellery is a good choice. If you’re on a date or going to a party, such jewellery could also be a good conversation starter.
It’s likely to be inappropriate in most workplaces. However, there may be exceptions such as if you’re a performer in a casual setting (such as a singer or dancer).
When to find a balance
Wearing too much flashy jewellery is not advised in many situations. Too many showy items could clash visually and make your outfit look too busy. It may work if you’re a rapper or a bride at your wedding, but in most other cases it will be too much.
Instead, it’s better to wear one item of statement jewellery and keep the others relatively subtle (such as an opulent necklace paired with subtle earrings and a subtle bracelet).
You should also consider your outfit. If you’re wearing shoes that you want people to notice, it may not be a good idea to pair this with a statement necklace that may detract attention from your shoes.
Statement jewellery is sometimes better worn with relatively more subtle clothing. Generally, the louder the jewellery, the more subtle the dress.
In most cases, it’s good to keep jewellery harmonious. Try to keep jewellery all too the same style unless you want an item to stand out. When it comes to metal jewellery, you should be careful of mixing metals. With plastic or leather, try to keep to the same colour.
It can also be worth thinking about how jewellery compliments your physical appearance. Certain types of flashy jewellery can reduce or exaggerate flaws. It’s important to not wear jewellery that may highlight bodily flaws that you’re self conscious about.
For example, if you’ve got scarring on your arm that you don’t want people to notice, don’t wear a flashy bangle on that arm.