Costume jewellery is so often the piece de resistance for an outfit. That standout finishing touch – even if you are just pulling on an old jumper and a pair of much-loved jeans. And, of course, a quick way to perk up your existing wardrobe. So I thought I would take a look at what’s new in from some of the top brands – nothing too expensive, but all of it very flattering…
- 14ct Gold Plated Hammered Drop Earrings £22.50 at Marks & Spencer – these will serve you well whether it’s day time or date night.
- Love pearls? They seem to illuminate as well as look expensive. These easy to pop on beaded earrings are from Mint Velvet and cost £29
- It’s springtime so why not treat yourself to some bright green flower beaded earrings £17.99
- If you have long hair then a pair of drop earrings are a must. And not just for evenings! My friend Bumble loves standout earrings and happily wears them in the daytime (usually fun and bright) as well as when she’s out in the evening (something more sophisticated) – they always give her a point of difference. Loving these quirky Lustrous Lobster earrings from &OtherStories £27.
It can be hard to find costume jewellery that has an impact without being heavy. I have several dramatic necklaces that I’ve had for years but hardly ever wear because they weigh my neck down. So these days, I look for large yet lightweight necklaces such as these three, any of which would look amazing worn with a crisp white shirt:
- Twist Oval Link Collar statement necklace from John Lewis £18. Also available in ‘silver’.
- Oversized link satin ribbon necklace £49 at Cos
- Colourful modern geometric resin necklace from Etsy £28.
A quirky ring is the perfect introduction to the fun of costume jewellery. Remember, as you will be drawing attention (and admiration!) to your hands, check your nails are groomed. A quick coat of Orly Kiss Me I’m Kind quick drying varnish will give you pretty nails in a couple of minutes.
- Capri Tre ring with white zirconia £89.50 reduced from £179 at Sif Jakobs
- Blue Zirconia rock statement cocktail ring £43 at Wolf & Badger
- Mesmera cocktail ring from Swarovski £81
- Double striped leather bangle £110 from Aspinal of London
- Wide gold plated armlet £55 at Arket
- Combined chain bracelet £15.99 from Mango
- Buddha beaded bracelet for Luck £4.99 (currently half price) at MyExquisite
Not sure if this Viola bracelet is lightweight or not but it’s definitely impressive! £12 from Weekday
- Serenity Pearl link chain necklace £100 at Astrid & Miyu
- Stream necklace £57 at Edblad
- Autograph Freshwater pearl multirow necklace £40
- A Tiny Kiss to Change Lives Founder Chrissie Rucker of The White Company, has designed this sterling silver necklace featuring a prettily delicate Swarovski-stone kiss. £20 from the sale of each £49 necklace goes to #ChangeAGirlsLife Campaign for Women Supporting Women at The Prince’s Trust.
Personally I wouldn’t be without my various chain bracelets which I wear next to my watch. I never take them off – not even in the shower – as I think they are ‘trouble-free’ instant chic! You can have an eclectic mix of friendship and charm bracelets – as many or as few as you like. They’re incredibly easy to style and they will go with everything. And during the warmer months I like to wear a white watch, such as this White Heart Charm watch from M&S £35.
