Jewellery for Men – Do You Dare?

By Emmet Purcell

There are many things women get away with which real men dare not even attempt – asking for directions, cooing at puppies or buying gigantic tubs of ice cream if we’re feeling down. Mens jewellery is another tricky proposition, as signet rings, necklaces and bracelets have all recently fallen by the fashion wayside. So is it acceptable in today’s world for men to wear jewellery and if so, what?

Many believe that unless a man is a. A pirate or b. A closeted homosexual in a 80s pop band, they have no business wearing jewellery. What’s worse is that a generation of unattractive stereotypes have led mens jewellery to the fashion wilderness, and turned off our nation’s womenfolk. We at JOE believe that any form of creative expression should be observed within limits, such as “will this necklace make me a laughing stock?”

Ultimately however, it is important to remember that with such a myriad of possibilities within mens jewellery, it should never be ignored. A myriad of possibilities is of course another way to describe a labyrinth of pitfalls so let’s point out a couple of ground rules to begin with:

Choose understated over flashy – A generation of bratty footballers and misogynistic Southern rappers have quickly changed the perceptions of flashy jewellery. Long-held status symbols, their fondness amongst a “new money” breed of brash, overpaid stars severely dented their image, as luxury items became “bling”. Avoid diamonds and chunky curb chains and apply the rationale that less is more.

Instead relatively inexpensive, woven jewellery in the form of woven leather bracelets and beads are a great way to express your individuality and provide a unique look to your outfit. The difference between a high street brand bracelet and that of a luxury brand should not be understated – if you’re trying to acquire a unique bracelet steer clear of the Topmans of the world and be prepared to pay a little extra.

 

Tateossian Sterling Silver Clasp Bracelet – €123.75 from ASOS.com

A great jewellery piece breaks the ice – The goal of any form of jewellery is to accentuate your style and garner the admiration of your peers – it should not go unnoticed. To this end there has been an emerging trend of neck chains with interesting and eye-catching designs worn outwards rather than peeking behind an undershirt.

This style of neck chain is not just decidedly masculine, but a great ice-breaker if commented on by the fairer sex. We recommend complementing the jewellery with a simple, pale-coloured tee. Skulls appear to be an overriding theme having shown up in the latest Seven Sterling and Vivienne Westwood collections.

 

Seven Sterling Silver Dagger, Shield And Skull Necklace – €150 from ASOS.com

Not all jewellery has to be essential – This is perhaps the key argument to exploring the outer rims of mens jewellery. All popular Mens accessories these days from cuff links to belts, scarves to gloves, all serve a basic purpose. Neck chains, bracelets and rings do not – which is exactly why they should be tried.

With the abundance of chain fashion stores dotting every high street and male clones dotting every weekend night club, simple unique accessories provide a sense individuality in your mindset and outward appearance. Why should you buy a white perforated ring? You don’t have to, but if you did it would look pretty sweet and make you stand out.

 

Diesel Perforated Chunky Branded Ring – €61.25 from ASOS.com

So forget Mr. T’s Snickers advert and diamond-encrusted crosses that would make Jesus spin in his cave, there’s excellent variety and quality to be found if you’re ready to try mens jewellery once more. If you’ve been inspired by this article and just now reached for your Argos catalogue then you really haven’t been paying attention.