Often learning how NOT to do something, is the foundation of learning how to do it properly. This is the same for men wanting to learn how to wear jewellery properly. If the look of Mr T out of the iconic nineties American TV series The A Team is the look you are aiming for, then you probably don’t need to read on as you’ll know exactly what you want to do.
However, if you want to achieve a balanced, classy look featuring some good pieces of gold and silver, then this guide will outline how you can best achieve this.
Size matters
Achieving the right look is all about balance, so the size of the piece of jewellery is important to give the overall impression of a balanced appearance. For example, for large hands and wide wrists you should choose men’s bracelets, watches and rings that are larger and oversized. If you have a thicker neck, choose a longer necklace. If your physique is leaner, then opt for smaller, thinner pieces.
Jewellery in the workplace
Remember that well used adage ‘less is more’ – well that certainly kicks in when it comes to how you should wear jewellery in the work environment. Apart from the fact that it might be a health and safety issue (in which case it should be safely locked up at home), then pay attention to the message you may be sending to your customers and work colleagues if your choices are inappropriate.
‘Professional’ jewellery should enhance your professional persona – a classic tie pin, understated cuff links that can accentuate your business or personal brand if you want a quirky element, a signet ring that has meaning and tradition. Your sartorial choices in the working environment should reflect your positive, ‘can do’ attitude to achieving business success.
Don’t use your jewellery to show off
Please don’t use jewellery to show yourself off as something that you are not. There is a lot of snobbery around luxury brands, and the more apparent and obvious the way in which they are worn, the less you come across as authentic and professional.
Always remember – less is more. We’ll repeat that phrase in every paragraph if need be, because it is the most important piece of advice to get across. Excessive demonstration of wealth through luxury brands is a sure sign of deep seated insecurity. Quiet, confident, understated is far more redolent of a man who is assured and secure in his own skin.
Select your pieces based on sentimental value
Your jewellery is more than a simple adornment, offering nothing but decorative value. But actually, sentimentality plays a big role in wearing your pieces successfully. A signet ring with a family crest. A pair of cufflinks that have been passed down from generation to generation. A simple bracelet representing the birth of each of your children – these are pieces that reflect you, your personality, your legacy.
Watch your tones
Gold and silver are the most common choices for men’s jewellery, and you don’t want to mix them up with other metals – stick to one metal or tone at a time. Choose your hue of gold and try to stick with it (some can be whiter and brighter than others). Gold goes best with armer colours – greens and blues. On days you wear greys and blacks, pair these with silver and silver tone metals. Keep precious stones to a minimum. And save the leather for outside of work hours.
Be confident in your choices
Make sure that whatever you choose, wear it with pride. A positive, confident attitude will enhance your overall appearance no matter what you are wearing.
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