How Does a Beaded Bracelet Play Into an Outfit?

Why Choose A Beaded Bracelet?

Beaded bracelets are an excellent way to add texture, culture and charm to an outfit. They're easy to wear and match to practically all colors, making them a convenient accessory. Beaded bracelets are attention grabbers, since they commonly make noise and are prominent. They're the mark of a confident, assertive dresser.

By choosing a beaded bracelet, the wearer is highlighting an ancient and valuable art form. Artisans make beads out of all sorts of materials, including clay, glass, stone and semi-precious gems. A versatile accessory that suits both men and women, the beaded bracelet is a fun addition to any look.

Selecting Beads to Suit the Wearer

To compliment the overall look, the jewelry should accent the wearer without overwhelming or overpowering. For instance, extra-large, dark beads can look heavy on a young teen, yet be completely suitable on an older woman. For a person with fine bones, small to medium beadwork is more complimentary. Those with stronger features can favor more prominent jewelry.

Also, keep comfort in mind. Chunky, loose-strung metal beads can chafe and irritate as time goes on. Depending on how solid a bead is, bracelets can also become heavy and cumbersome. Accessorize according to the function and task at hand.

What Beads Will Compliment my Outfit?

Have a particular piece of clothing in mind when buying a beaded bracelet. The beads should compliment the garment by being the finishing touch. Generally, solid colored ensembles can take a more aggressive piece of jewelry than something with a wild pattern. Neutrals such as black, khaki, olive, white and beige look fantastic with carved beads and bright colors.

Use the bracelet to add contrast. A flowing white dress looks beautiful with carved wooden beads, while a no-nonsense black suit becomes feminine with gumball-like red beads.

Buy beaded bracelets that are well-made, especially if buying larger beads. Badly-made jewelry looks cheap and takes away from the overall style of the wearer. Also, it can break with little warning.

Beaded bracelets are more affordable than metal in many cases, and smart shoppers can find affordable, one-of-a-kind artisan beadwork from around the world.

How Many Bracelets can an Outfit Take?

Think in terms of area. At most, jewelry should cover about a quarter of the arm. Otherwise, there's just too much going on visually. The larger the beads, the less a person should wear.

Bracelets don't require even balancing on both sides of the body in order to be flattering. Since they're pieces of art that merit attention on their own, wear the bracelets on one arm only. Save the opposite wrist for a watch or purse.

Resources

• Laila Rowe Bracelts - affordable, well-crafted costume jewelry