Etiquette on jewelry

CEBU, Philippines - Most of us enjoy wearing jewelry with the outfits that we choose to put on each day. But deciding on how much jewelry to wear is always dependent on where you are going and what you are trying to accomplish. If your goal is to look professional, there are fewer options for wearing certain kinds and amounts of jewelry than if you are going out say to lunch with friends.

 Men seem to have a little easier time at this than women. This is probably because they usually have less jewelry and clothes to choose from. They have chains and pendants, watches and  bracelets  A few have adopted the practice of wearing earrings, even some of the older generation of men.

 Here are some basic guidelines in making decisions on how much and what jewelry to wear for different occasions.

 Silver and gold jewelry if delicately designed can be combined. For example, silver and gold chains as a necklace will liven up a dark dress.

 Costume jewelry  watches set in bracelet bands  which are reproductions of the real thing may be substituted for bracelets. Sport watches are not worn with late-day clothes. By the same token, that is the only time to wear jeweled watches, whether they are real or fake.

Sterling or silver-plated jewelry, even when set with semi-precious stones is more suitable for casual wear unless it is a prized heirloom or reproduction.

 A woman who wears lots of rings should have lovely hands, with nails in good condition. If her hands are laden with rings, she will be drawing attention to them at all times. 

 Do not wear one of  everything - earrings, a bracelet a ring and a necklace. A dramatic necklace requires modest earrings and vice versa. Follow the simple principle, "earrings + bracelet" and "necklace + ring".  

 Face shape and hairstyle have an influence on what  jewelry to wear. Massive earrings look out of place if you have a small face or short hair. For those who have round faces, they are advised to avoid opting for round earrings.

 If you have more than one hole in your ear, put studs in the uppermost holes and your big earrings in the bottom one to  prevent any overlap.

 If you can boast of having a fine swan neck, do not hesitate to wear long dangling earrings. If in contrast you are petite then small earrings that will not look like weights on you will be ideal. Chunky earrings are fabulous on a plump lady with lush hair style.

Once again your own decision is well within the limits of good taste. Experiment and decide what will work best for you. (FREEMAN)