It started as a offhand trend, at first purely on Instagram and Snapchat, but it has since evolved into a lasting style. I’m talking about the fine, threadbare, second-knuckle rings and dainty bar necklaces grazing your collarbone. The gossamer-light chain bracelets, and ear cuffs that trace and frame your ear contour. They are the glittering threads that you catch a glimpse of on someone’s hand, neck, or ear, and instantly begin plotting how to get your own.
I suppose I’m partial to this trend because it is the opposite of cocktail rings and statement necklaces. Never one to dress loudly or boldly, I personally can’t get enough of these under the radar, barely-there pieces that add just a little bit of sparkle to any outfit. The combination is both chic and elegant; as if I were dressing up just for myself. With the minimalist jewellery trend showing no signs of abating, here are four ways to do it right.
Bracelets
With simple and thin bracelets, feel free to stack and dress both arms. Just keep the other accessories you wear to a minimum. You can mix bracelets of different thickness and embellishments but never pair heavy cuffs with thin pieces as the former will overshadow the latter. One of my favourite pairings is a white or rose gold chain with a diamond tennis bracelet.
Necklaces
The art of layering is key here, but always keep in mind the neckline of your shirt. A combination that worked well for one top may not work for another. Go for a graduated effect from top down, like a delicate diamond choker to a slightly chunkier charm necklace. A lariat necklace is also another way to add length. For a more personal touch, reach for a letter or zodiac pendant. If you want to keep it completely clean, draping simple chains is the way to go.
Rings
Like bracelets, the more the merrier. Stack multiple rings on one finger; wear thread-like ones on the base and knuckle of the same fingers; and experiment with metals and details. Make sure to keep some of your fingers bare so the look isn’t overwhelming. Creating some negative space by combining horizontal and vertical rings is also a good method to the beautiful madness.
Earrings
If you only have one piercing on your lobe, choose a ear cuff or crawler with diamonds that will catch the light — and the attention of those around you. If you have multiple piercings, there really isn’t any part of your ear that you can’t adorn. The asymmetry of choosing earrings of various shapes and sizes is one way to get in on the trend; as is putting on a dangling option amidst hoops and studs.
Look for the pieces you love, and you’ll never want to take them off. The ‘statement’ you’ll make here will be the sum of all the darling, delicate parts. Of yourself, in other words.
Image opener: Azlee Jewelry Fall Winter collection
