Dear Oligo Editor: Bib Necklaces
September 1, 2009 by Paulette Beete
Dear Oligoville Editor:
I love the new bib necklaces but I can’t figure out how to work them into my everyday wardrobe. My closet is more business (and business casual) than ballroom. Is it possible to wear a statement piece without making, well, too much of a statement? Please help!
Sincerely,
Scared Bib-less
Dear Scared–
When in doubt about the statement you’re making at work, always use your “inside” voice. In other words, the key to wearing a bib necklace–or any other attention-getting necklace–Monday through Friday is to keep the rest of your outfit simple. Think solid-colored tees and tanks, preferably with a higher neckline so the fabric forms a nice backdrop to the necklace and tones down the formality a bit. If you are in the mood for a little pattern, keep it on the bottom half in similar colors to your necklace, so your jewelry and clothing complement rather than compete with each other.
I think bib necklaces also add great sparkle under a monochromatic suit. Try a demure shawl or portrait collar, so you don’t have to wear a layering piece, and the suit lapels can act as a frame for the sparkler. And unless you’re heading to a wedding or other fancy fete, go for matte rather than sheen in your suiting fabric.
Finally, steer clear of any other jewelry, even if you are whipping out your necklace for a soiree. (Engagement and wedding rings are, of course, the exception to the rule.) I promise you that your piercings won’t close up if you skip earrings this one time, and you can tell the time just as easily from your cell phone (or someone else’s wrist) as from your watch.
I never thought I’d do this, but I’m going to borrow a phrase from Forest Gump and leave you with this last piece of advice for working these eyecatchers into everyday–simple is as simple does. And you dear one, now know the trick for being simply stunning!
