WORDS BY BEANIE MAJOR
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JACK MARGERISON
People have adorned themselves with bracelets and cuffs on the fore and upper arms since early civilisation; it’s in our blood. And when it comes to the art of stacking bracelets, it’s not about just piling everything on, says Beanie Major, jewellery expert and founder of the online jewellery publication In Detail. It’s about personal style, the right occasion — and knowing when not to stack at all. Here is her bracelet guide…
Shop the look: Carolina Bucci Disco Ball Bracelet | David Yurman Continuance centre twist bangle | Carolina Bucci Caro Cuff
Stack. Stack. Stack.
Your wrist watch or a couple of classic gold bangles are a good place to start. Then mix in some chains and charms. Friendship bracelets or pieces made from leather, cord or beads are a great way to personalise your stack; colours and textures can be changed seasonally.
Mix your metals
It’s not a sin to mix your metals — it all comes down to personal taste. Platinum and silver are ‘white’, whilst gold most commonly comes in three colours; yellow, white and rose. If you’re a purist, you might prefer to stick to just one; if not, mix and match to your heart’s content.
Shop the look: Carolina Bucci and Tiffany & Co
Find your fit
When it comes to sizing, consider the circumference of your wrist (or the widest part of your hand if it’s a bangle) — some people like to wear their bracelets hanging low at the base of the hand whilst others prefer a snug fit. Try the shake-test. If they don’t fall off and they feel comfortable you’re good to go. If you don’t like them hanging low, wear the smallest bracelet of the stack closest to your hand to keep everything else in place.
Shop the look: Pomellato | De Beers | Tiffany | David Yurman
Assess your style (and the occasion)
A wrist full of bangles can make quite a statement, so you might want to consider a simple outfit or wearing minimal jewellery elsewhere. If you haven’t worn a lot of bracelets before, the constant jangling can take some getting used too. And a word of warning — silent offices may not be the best place to make your stacked bracelet debut…
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