Costume Jewelry might not be something a simple girl would touch with a ten-foot pole. The mere mention of the word "costume" is enough to scare her away. Being partial to the tried-and-tested, safe comfort of fine jewelry, most girls choose to stay in that territory. But the world is a stage, as they say, and every girl wants to live out a fantasy or channel her inner diva sometimes.
Originating in the 1930's, costume jewelry was made to match a specific outfit in fashion at the time. It was mainly made out of inexpensive materials like plastic, glass and synthetic stones. Once the trend was outdated, it was also disposed of, only to resurface when a new garment became in vogue that matched it.
Nowadays, costume jewelry goes by the more modern term "fashion jewelry." It sounds less threatening for sure. No matter how it is called though, it is a versatile piece of accessory that, when used in the right way, adds instant drama to a get-up.
Here are 4 tips on how to wear costume jewelry:
1) Wear it to Work - Every woman should have a white shirt in her wardrobe. It is a fashion rule that appears on any must-have list. Not unlike comfort food, a crisp collared white shirt is something that gives instant satisfaction, especially on days when you can't seem to think of what to wear. It is almost your default piece of clothing for a business meeting or a presentation. Although it adheres to corporate decorum, the white shirt can sometimes conceal one's personality. The quick, almost effortless solution to this is to ornament it with, for instance, a statement bib necklace, beaded with glass or wood beads. Keep the color combination neutral so that it doesn't steal the scene away from you. If you feel you can sure use some bright colors, however, you can still indulge but keep it discreet by wearing the piece under your collar. At once subdued and striking, the costume jewelry peeking from under the collar radiates both class and just the right amount of sex appeal.
2) Wear it for a Lunch-out with Friends - While you want to look as pretty and as simple as possible on a date, you just want to have fun when out with your girlfriends. If you think that a costume jewelry hanging on your neck has the potential to come off too strong for a guy, you don't feel the same hesitation with your gal pals. Instead, you enjoy the collective drool when your neck piece becomes a conversation piece. Dress it down with a white tank top and jeans or shorts. Pull back your hair in a bun or a ponytail to further highlight your focal point.
3) Wear it on a Night-out - The LBD (little black dress) is another staple that every girl should own. It is your faithful friend when nothing else works. The stark black color serves as an empty canvas which a statement necklace paints to life. With the simplicity of the LBD - best when scooped-neck or strapless - you never feel overdressed when you pair it with costume jewelry, be it a bejeweled bib necklace, chandelier earrings or an elaborate bracelet.
4) Wear it at the Beach - Who says going to the beach is exclusive to swimming or sunbathing? When girls pack for a resort trip, they don't leave their casual party dresses behind. There are enough clubs and restaurants in resorts nowadays where you can show off your fashion treasures. In fact, the resort is the perfect place to be more adventurous in your costume jewelry choices. Go with the most obvious nautical themes. A necklace with shells or corals can never be wrong when worn with a bikini top and a sarong wrapped around your waist. A charm bracelet with aquatic-inspired trinkets all the more gives your flowing caftan a carefree, hippie vibe.
Now that you know how versatile costume jewelry is, there is no reason why you shouldn't take advantage of the impact it creates. Earn fashion points as you go from day to night and even through the weekend wearing a well-selected piece. As in any clothes or fashion accessories, it is when you carry it with confidence and ease that truly lends glamor to costume jewelry.