Big, scary jewelry not so scary

Somewhere in one of the bottom drawers of my jewelry chest, my dainty jewelry from years past is waiting for its comeback. But those tasteful silver studs and little dangling charms might as well resign themselves to a life of boredom in the pink-velvet lined box. Their return isn’t happening anytime soon.

My obsession with big, scary jewelry was encouraged, of course, by the fashion industry’s dedication to larger-than-life accessories. It started about five years ago with chandelier earrings — which at the time seemed dangerously large and dangling. In truth, we hadn’t seen anything yet.

When the chandeliers grew bigger, the rest of earrings followed — and now there’s no going back. I have some white shell earrings with a three-inch diameter. My husband says they look like something out of National Geographic. I wore them to an Astros game and my dad thought they were supposed to be baseballs.

But beginning last season and coming full-force this fall, the earrings aren’t the only accessories liable to frighten small children.

For years, I’ve considered the most essential accessory to complete an outfit to be earrings. Now, you can let your ears relax and let your neck do the work.

This season, layered necklaces — even those that aren’t designed to be worn together — are a sure way to update your look. If you’re aiming for a formal look, choose delicate chains or beads, but lots of them.

Chunky, colorful beads can go with almost any outfit, layered or not.

I know the types of necklaces popular with the younger crowd — the bright circle beads that remind me vaguely of Betty Rubble. If you’re under 20, go for it. Every generation needs its own version of big and scary to designate itself from the one before.

If you’re too old for Flintstones, look for big beads that are dressed up a little more than the plastic ones. Try turquoise, enamel, tortoise shell or pearls. Even transparent plastic beads in different shades can look appropriate for women of all ages if it coordinates with an outfit properly.

While I won’t commit to forecasting a huge bracelet comeback — perhaps because I can barely stand to wear one because it interferes with my typing — I will say that wrist adornment is also becoming bolder. Think of chunky cuffs, textured metals and more enamel.

When you’re wearing whatever piece of big, scary jewelry that you decide on, you don’t have to scale down your entire look, but you shouldn’t wear more than one piece that makes a huge statement. In other words, the gigantic shell earings shouldn’t be paired with a matching necklace, watch and belt. You don’t have to go completely dainty, but let it be clear which item is the focal point. Too many things competing for the spot confuses the eyes.

Keep it in proportion, too. A tiny woman wearing a necklace that weighs more than she does will just look silly.

But above all, don’t be scared by the big, scary jewelry. Once you get used to the size — and clear the drawer space — the fashion fun will be addicting.
Source: galvestondailynews