You may have heard that men can’t get away with jewellery – and we’re pleased to tell you that whoever said that is wrong. Men can certainly get away with jewellery, it’s just depends on figuring out what works.
Things to Try
So what types of jewellery should you be looking at? As we mentioned – less is more. The key to looking classy and chic whilst wearing jewellery, is to go with subtle and meaningful. Every piece you wear should have a story to tell. Our favourite key items to work into your wardrobe are:
Signet Rings
Signet rings should be a staple of every man’s wardrobe. Depending on your skin tone and what style of clothes you’re wearing, you’ll want to look into different metals. Gold is great for a warmer, softer aesthetic and is one of the more conventional choices. Silver is much cooler, and also, much more affordable! You could also go for one of the more unorthodox choices – such as titanium or stainless steel.
One advantage of signet rings is that as well as being a subtle, statement piece; they can also have a lot of meaning. Many people choose to get a picture engraved – university or school crests being particularly common. You could also look for the imagery of family crests, patron saints, or anything that you feel like is meaningful and could tell a story!
Watches
Not only are watches practical, but they also carry a lot of weight. If you’re getting one along with a signet ring, we suggest you getting one in the same material for consistency. While digital clocks have a more modern feel, we’re a fan of the old-school analog – as there’s just something refined about them that modern digital clocks lack. Plus, clockwork won’t run out like a battery will!
If you’re looking to invest, why not check out the watches that have additional features – such as being able to add on another time-zone, or work underwater? These give you something interesting to talk about, and add an air of intrigue to your persona.
Get Nautical
While leather wrapped around your neck might not be a great option, on your wrist it can be a winner. Paired with the appropriate items such as these metal anchors from Artem Starostenko, they blend as a perfect highlight so your non-wristwatch doesn’t look empty.
Simple Chain Necklace
Go for a thin (not delicate) chain necklace – again, in the same material as your other pieces ideally. You want to look for one with fascinating detailing, so something beyond plain links. Depending on your personal choices, you could choose to add in a simple pendant too. For Christians, a plain cross can add a lot to it, or for those who enjoy adventure, a small compass. Think about what interests you and holds meaning to you, before exploring the options.
Things to Avoid
Half-Destroyed Gig Wristbands
No, really. You might think they show that you’re cultured and have an interesting life, but all they actually show is that you don’t wash. You don’t have to get rid of them entirely, of course; just don’t leave them on your wrists. Why not start a travel scrapbook or pinboard – you can include all your train tickets, wristbands, and other assorted memories?
Leather Necklaces
If it’s something you can buy from a tacky tourist shop, you shouldn’t be wearing it. There are some rare leather necklaces that can work – usually the thicker, handwoven types – but the thin shoelace type cords are definitely not among them.
Thick, Chain Necklaces
On the other end of the spectrum are the chunky chain necklaces. If it looks like a bike chain, it shouldn’t be around your neck. Remember: less is more.
Enough Rings to be a Knuckleduster
This isn’t a good look on anyone. If you look like your punches could leave a ring-shaped imprint on a wall, it’s time to take a few off. We’ll look at what rings you can and should wear later, but for now, just take them all off and give your fingers a break!
Over-the-Top Belt Buckles
You know the ones we mean – the ones that come up over the shirt and make everyone look directly at your crotch. Don’t do that. It’s annoying and what’s more – distracting in a bad way.
From our tips, you’ll hopefully have noticed a running theme – simple, subtle, and meaningful. Never wear a piece of jewellery that doesn’t tell a story, because that’s the interesting part. It doesn’t have to be deep – something as simple as ‘that’s my family crest’ instantly adds intrigue and can cause a new conversation to open up.
Click here to see gifts ideas for your men that includes trending luxury watches. Click here to see more inspirations about men’s accessories.
