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Articles A fashion statement you can bank on .. Telegraph.co.uk Big, bold costume jewellery is a catwalk trend we can all enjoy, says Bronwyn Cosgrave
THE DOS AND DON’TS FOR MODERN MAGPIES
'DO mix it up by wearing real stones with costume pieces," advises Carol Woolton, jewellery editor of Vogue. "Combining a strand of real pearls with a costume piece such as a brooch will lend a sense of inspired playfulness to any look."
Sarah Jessica Parker recently combined an ornate Erickson Beamon statement necklace with a £12,600 strand of Fred Leighton gold and mosaic opals (above).
DO buy costume jewellery by a big name, because it may prove to be a sound investment, paying dividends later if resold on eBay or at auction. Look for pieces by renowned jewellers such as Miriam Haskell, or a fashion house known for jewellery, such as Chanel, Dior or Christian Lacroix. "Acquire a piece by a name and it could appreciate in value if you want to sell it on," says Woolton.
DO pack costume jewellery for your summer holiday. "One great piece will instantly polish a casual outfit," says Vicki Sarge, proprietor of the London jeweller Erickson Beamon.
'DO experiment," urges Maryam D'Javadi, manager of Harrods' personal shopping service. Fine jewellery is usually made from precious metals, while costume pieces come in many wild colours, unusual textures and intriguing materials. Some women might find such combinations unorthodox but a hint of the avant-garde will produce a striking look. "So be fearless," says D'Javadi. "Costume jewellery is about having fun."
'DON'T wear statement jewellery with anything frilly or frou frou," advises Woolton. Costume jewels look best with spare, minimalist clothes.
'DON'T buy the 'ultra-fashionable' piece, because it could soon look dated," says D'Javadi. This is particularly pertinent if you are on a budget; instead, opt for something timeless, such as a cocktail ring.
'DON'T force it," says Sarge. She believes that jewellery can "say more about you than an item of clothing". Therefore, look for a piece that you feel comfortable flaunting.
'DON'T be boring when it comes to wearing bangles," advises Julia Muggenburg of Mayfair jeweller Belmacz. Mix bangles made of different types of wood - mahogany, wenge, oak, burr elm and yew - to show the beauty of their different textures and colours. "Nature is generous and it is great to play with it," she adds. Back to Articles |
