The Statement Necklace - Easiest Wardrobe Update EVER
by Susan WagnerA dramatic necklace is a simple wardrobe upgrade; you probably already have one in your jewelery box that you're not wearing, and now is the time to dig it out. The statement necklace quite literally goes with everything. We tend to save our more elaborate pieces for special occasions -- weddings and parties and dates -- but you can pair a dramatic necklace with jeans and a tee a or a suit for an everyday look that has just the right little edge.
When you're shopping for a statement piece, look for distinctive details like beautiful stones and an intricate setting. Don't be afraid to go big -- the whole idea is that this piece will be a focal point of your outfit. Think about colors and shapes that will work with your existing closet; you want to be able to wear this necklace with everything.
I'm completely smitten with the necklace pictured here, from J. Crew; the elaborate design and the substantial size are appealing to me because it's the perfect foil to simple pieces like a crisp white tee. I also love the balance of formal and funky -- this is a piece that could easily work for day or evening. (J. Crew jeweled palm-leaf necklace, $175.00; available in two color combinations.)
If you're not looking for an investment piece, H&M and Target are great places to scour for big style at a small price. And vintage is always fun -- dig through the costume jewelery at Goodwill or your local consignment shop. Look for floral or botanical pieces, or for oversized beads, either glass or plastic.
What do you wear your statement necklace with? Everything. Seriously. The trick is to keep the lines of your shirt or sweater simple -- a crew-neck tee with a big bib necklace, or a simple sheath dress with a chunky crystal choker, or a sleek cardigan with piles of pearls. Make a statement -- keep your outfit simple and let the necklace do al the work, and don't be afraid to repeat the same piece over and over. This is one time that you want people to remember what you wore the last time they saw you.
For a more subtle alternative, look for tonal pieces -- pearls over a white tee, or black beads with a dark sweater. But don't be afraid to be bold -- that's the whole idea here. Wear multiple strands of pearls, or choose the big gumball beads.
Dana at Possessionista has more tips for making the statement necklace work; Whoozqueen at Ooh, I've Got Something To Show You is teasing us with the most stunning OOAK piece I've ever seen (sadly, not available, which makes me cry because it' so damn beautiful); A New Mode shares five seasonal splurges (including the statement necklace).
Susan Wagner writes about style at The Working Closet and chic suburban living at Friday Playdate. She's been digging out her vintage jewelery for spring.
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Comments
Hear, hear!
I've been obsessed with crazy necklaces lately. I'm usually more of an earring girl, but for some reason I am really into necklaces right now, due in no small part to this photo:
Indian bridal jewelry and egyptian-style collars (you know, since I'm a princess and/or queen--take your pick) are my specific "needs" at the moment. Imagine wearing one of those with a drape-y white tank and fitted pencil skirt when the weather warms up!
The other must-have item on my list is a pair of strappy black heel-boots. I already splurged on these killer Giuseppe Zanotti heels (love!), so I need them to be reasonably priced. Any suggestions?
Tamia
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Love this!
Statement necklaces were all over the red carpet at the Oscars, too. What an easy way to freshen up a wardrobe -- and you know you can find some gorgeous statement-making jewelry at places as diverse as Target, TJ Maxx and local museum gift-shops and art galleries.
Cathy
cathylwood.wordpress.com
Love this trend!
This is such a great trend! It's fun to mix over-the-top pieces with toned down, even plain clothes.
http://www.shopdownlite.com
Mix Dressy with Casual
I am so excited to see large necklaces on the runway. I have several large statement necklaces I got from estate sales and I love to wear them with basic t-shirts and jeans. Naturally we all get stuck in the matchy matchy mind set; dressy necklace goes with dressy dress at dressy event. Try mixing them with casual tops for a fun eclectic look great for day wear.
Make Your Own!
I ADORE giant, chunky, statementy necklaces and have just been gleeful ever since this trend emerged. I also recommend making your own statement necklace through layering: http://www.alreadypretty.com/2009/01/video-tutorial-diy-statement-neckla...
Easy, cheap, and can be a bit more office-friendly than some of the truly out-there pieces available in stores!
http://www.alreadypretty.com/
Move over Necklace It's Moving Up To The Ear
It's true we have seen the statement necklace for the last couple of seasons as the focal point, and it is not over yet - but for those who prefer earrings - good news! This spring and summer the earring is the news.
Like the statement necklace, earrings are big and bold too. Long chandelier style earrings are set off perfectly with the beauty trend of hair up and off the face. The nice thing about earrings coming into focus is that they can really frame the face and give you that stunning long neck effect.
One other trend that continues in jewelry is the bangle. This season they are colorful and stacked up the arm to add drama.
Should be a fun jewelry season.
Patricia Pinkney
http://www.pangea-collection.com
http://blog.pangea-collection.com/
Wow- you have to check out a
Wow- you have to check out a little company that is doing Statement EVERYTHING better then anyone- I just ordered one of Doloris Petunia's custom statement necklaces- made from my old jewelry that was either broken or I didn't wear anymore and it is a work of art- and very well priced. You all need to check out this up and coming designers shop!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6974321