Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo

Necklaces, Bracelets and Earrings… Oh My!

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at St Olaf chapter.

Hello fashionistas!

Let’s begin with a quote: 

“Accessories are everything. To me, they’re more important than the clothes.” -Rachel Zoe

Though they are small and delicate, accessories are just as important as the outfit you put on. Don’t underestimate the power of the accessory! Not only do they add visual interest, but they also allow you to let your personal style shine. You can achieve a completely new look simply by changing accessories! But choosing the right accessory to complete a look can be more difficult than it seems. Let’s get a better understanding of some different necklaces, bracelets and earrings… oh my! Here are are a variety of accessory styles to find inspiration!

Necklaces

Geo-chic/Edgy: 

For the geometric-chic or edgy look, the best necklace will be eye catching and artistic. Think sharp angles, mixed metals and geometric shapes. Here is an example of a geo-chic necklace from Madewell: 

 

Dainty:

A dainty necklace will be subtle and delicate, yet attention-grabbing. When looking for a dainty necklace, think smaller and lighter. A delicate chain with a tiny diamond pendant will make a bigger statement than you might think! Here is an example of a dainty necklace from Madewell:

 

Statement:

The name says it all for this one – make a statement with your necklace! For this style, the color, sparkle and texture say it all. I find it easier to build an outfit around a statement necklace rather than add one at the last minute. Here is an example of a statement necklace from LOFT: 

Bracelets

Geo-chic/Edgy:

Geo-chic and edgy bracelets can get as edgy as you desire. Think chunky metals, bangles or simple shapes. Here is an example of a geo-chic/edgy bracelet from Urban Outfitters:

Dainty:

When going for dainty bracelets, think thin and light. These could be a simple delicate chain or a set of thin bangles. When thinking dainty, you can even try pearls! Here is an example of a dainty bracelet from H&M:

Statement:

A statement bracelet will be big but wearable. Believe it or not, some jewelry can get really heavy! Keep the weight to a minimum when trying to find your statement bracelet. Think bold chains (like a watch), colorful beading or sparkly bling. Here is an example of a statement bracelet from H&M:

[pagebreak]

Earrings

Geo-chic/Edgy:

There are a lot of options when it comes to geo-chic or edgy earrings. Once again, think simple shapes, mixed metals or sharp angles. They can be dangly or studs – either looks great! Here is an example of a pair of geo-chic/edgy earrings from the Walker Art Center gift shop:

Dainty:

For dainty earrings, think little diamond studs, tiny pearls or thin dangling earrings. Their lightness will give-off an aura of femininity. Here is an example from Claire’s:

Statement:

Statement earrings are the best of all because they draw attention to your face! Think big hoops, large studs, sparkly flowers or bright colors. Here is an example of statement earrings from Anthropologie:

With all these styles in mind, here are a few tips for wearing accessories:

  • Keep the number of accessories to a limit. Maybe skip the bracelets if you already have a statement necklace and earrings picked out. 
  • To decrease jewelry clutter, try pairing a simple pair of earrings with a bold necklace – or vice versa – a pair of statement earrings with a dainty necklace!
  • A majority of the time, less is more. Keep jewelry to a limit so the look doesn’t get too overwhelming. If you tend to go overboard with your jewelry, stick to what Coco Chanel said: “When accessorizing always take off the  last thing you put on.”

With these style options, accessories can become a girls best friend! Uncover the potential of great accessories and flaunt your personal style! Enjoy experimenting with different pieces and working with how you can transform a look simply by changing accessories! 

Stay fashionable, Oles!

Cover

All jewelry photos taken by Kate

Kate Roy is a junior, Psychology and Dance double major at St. Olaf College. As one of the Campus Correspondents for Her Campus St. Olaf, she enjoys writing, editing, and helping her fellow Oles get their voices heard. Kate is involved in CompanyDance, the modern dance company at St. Olaf. In her free time, Kate loves to spend time with friends, listen to music, browse Her Campus, flip through fashion magazines, and eat chocolate.  Kate is a fashionista and has a passion for all things dealing with fashion. She works at Madewell, and enjoys getting experience in the fashion world. Kate headed the Her Campus St. Olaf College style blog, StO-Style (now Snapshot), for the 2013-2014 school year. She loved this position and hopes to continue her fashion writing in the future. Kate is extrememly excited to share the position of Campus Correspondent for the 2014-2015 school year and expand her involvement with St. Olaf's Her Campus Chapter.