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“Life’s a party. Dress like it.”
Lilly Pulitzer, American socialite and fashion designer, 1931-2013
If ever there was a time to throw chic minimalist fashion tendencies to the wind, go wild and rock statement costume jewellery, it’s the Christmas party season. And while jewellery trends come and go, and elegant everyday jewellery has its place (think diamond studs, classic gold hoops and sentimental pendants on fine necklaces), there’s nothing that screams “I’ve arrived” better than big hair, bold jewellery and some party season bling.
Just as a black tailored blazer, flattering jeans and designer sunglasses are all must-haves in every chic woman’s working wardrobe, so too are several staple party pieces that should reside in your jewellery box. Between them, you’ll have a hero piece to suit every outfit, occasion, and mood, from glamorous cocktail dresses to chic denim or relaxed resort looks.
ON HER: ZIMMERMAN CORSAGE SAFARI BIKINI, $395, SHOP NOW. EARRINGS, $199, SHOP NOW, NECKLACE, $249, SHOP NOW, both SWAROVSKI. ON HIM: DIOR MEN, DOUBLE-BREASTED JACKET, $3700, SHOP IN STORE
ONE: THE statement necklace
When done right, a wow-factor necklace is the only accessory you need. The secret lies in paring back your clothing to balance the look. Opt for neutral tones like black, metallics and clear stones, which will work with any colour or pattern and are timeless enough to wear year after year. This double-stranded necklace below, for example, would work as well with an unbuttoned collared cotton shirt, jeans and heels as it would a strapless black cocktail dress. It may feel like an investment piece, but given the number of completely different outfits you can wear it with, a statement necklace is probably the most versatile costume piece you could have in your jewellery box.
STYLE WITH: Any high-necked, open-neck or strapless silhouette.
Swarovski, Manor strandage, multi-coloured, rose gold plating, $999. SHOP NOW
TWO: The talking point cuff
Yes, layered cuffs, chunky bangles, and multi-stranded chains are a thing right now, but when it comes to party dressing, nothing says special occasion faster than a statement cuff worn solo. Much more than a bangle, a cuff that’s an inch-or-more wide and of unique artisan construction is an elegant touch that will draw attention. This piece below designed by fashion creative Peter Pilotto is the perfect example. Nothing something you’d see every day, but elegant and timeless all the same. The only way to trump the look is by wearing identical cuffs, one on each wrist. Wonder Woman indeed.
STYLE WITH: simple block colours, black and white, or over the top of a long-sleeved shirt or dress.
Swarovski, Peter Pilotto Arbol Cuff, multi-coloured, rose gold plating, $399. SHOP NOW
THREE: THE Oversized earrings
Chandelier earrings have been worn by queens and party starlets for centuries, but the common misconception is that they’re only appropriate for black tie dressing. Au contraire. Rather, long earrings – be they wide and coloured or long strands that dust your shoulders – are ideal for everything from dressing up denim to pool-side resort looks and date nights. The hottest trend in oversized earrings right now is mismatched but matching, if that makes sense. Case in point, these lily-inspired long earrings created as a set, and designed to be worn individually with a pearl stud on the other ear, or together.
STYLE WITH: hair worn up and no necklace. Oversized jewellery deserves no competition.
Swarovski most pierced earrings, multi-coloured, gold plating. $399. SHOP NOW
Produced in association with Swarovksi.
