The finest jewellery will help you sparkle your way through the festive season, and beyond. Here’s how to choose the bold and beautiful pieces that will elevate any look.
Party season is undoubtedly back with a bang this winter – and what better way of making a statement than with some well-placed glamour and glitz? Whilst subtle, layered looks are fine for everyday wear, for a truly special occasion it’s worth seeking out bolder, more dramatic pieces to capture the party spirit. After all, precious jewellery isn’t just an investment to keep in a safe for future generations – it’s a wearable expression of our personalities, an instant way to transform our mood, and a fail-safe method of boosting our confidence. What’s more, the right pieces won’t simply be one-hit wonders – their feel-good benefits will be felt every time you slip them on, so every night becomes a night to remember.
Where to Start
● Keep things simple and take your cue from your eveningwear. Sparkling jewels are the final touches which bring a look together, so pay attention to fabrication and silhouettes when selecting your accessories.
● Collarless and strapless dresses that show off your neckline and décolleté are the perfect foil for scintillating diamond necklaces, such as the Fancy Bar Necklace, whilst an exquisitely detailed pendant, like the Mixed Cut Diamond Close Pendant can deliver extra impact worn back-to-front with a backless ensemble (as styled by seasoned red-carpet regulars such as Cate Blanchett, Beyoncé and Jennifer Lawrence).
● Consider contrasts, too. Ornate or richly textured outfits may only require a pair of elegant statement studs, like the Mixed Cut Diamond Studs, as a final flourish, meanwhile, a pair of shoulder-dusting drop earrings, such as the Fancy Pear Drop Earrings would add that extra ‘wow factor’ to a sleek, pared-back column dress (their longer length also has the added benefit of reflecting a flattering glow around your face and elongating the look of your neck).
● Do try things on before making any decisions. The eye-catching details, such as the use of mix diamond cuts to catch the light, of the shimmering Fancy Shape Bar Bracelet, may be hidden by long sleeves or overwhelmed by elaborate cuffs.
● The one suits-all style? Bold cocktail rings, which were first adopted by flappers in the 1920s, are currently back in fashion and look fabulous on everyone. Try the Mixed Cut Diamond Open Ring, as a sparkling conversation starter.
Rules Worth Remembering
Here are a few practical tips worth considering:
● For dressier evening affairs, try sticking to a single metal, such as all white gold, as mixed metals can often read as more casual.
● You don’t have to wear a full, matching suite of jewels to be chic. A beautifully bold necklace and a few shimmering rings or set of dazzling earrings paired with a statement cuff can be just as impactful as a full parure, and look more modern.
● To avoid looking like a Christmas bauble (unless that’s the look you’re going for) don’t pair red and green gemstones, such as rubies and emeralds.
● Dialling up the glamour with diamonds? Be aware they can scratch precious metals or gemstones that aren’t as resilient, so leave the ornate stacks at home and opt for single statement-making pieces instead.
● Wear what you love, and you can’t go wrong.
Discover your party season jewellery here at Mappin & Webb online or visit us in store at one of our showrooms where our jewellery experts will be delighted to help you find the perfect piece.
Author credit: Kim Parker is a London-based journalist and editor specialising in the luxury market, especially fine jewellery and watches. She contributes to leading titles such as Harper’s Bazaar, The Times, The Telegraph, The Week and Condé Nast Traveller.
