Jewelry for men can be a tricky topic. Some men think that it is effeminate or inappropriate to wear jewelry, while others are unsure how to incorporate it into their style. Whatever your opinion, there is no denying that men’s jewelry is a great way to add a little extra flair and personality to your look. It can even make you stand out in a crowd and become a conversation starter.
From traditional gold and silver link chains to bangles, bracelets and rings, there is something for every man’s taste. But be careful not to go over the top with your bling. A simple, small chain can be a perfect accessory to complete a casual outfit while a large, chunky ring might look out of place at a wedding or other formal event.
Earrings are slowly reviving as a fashion trend for men. Traditionally, men only wore earrings when they were in uniform or participating in some sort of religious ceremony. The trend is now becoming more commonplace, and designers and jewellers are taking advantage by offering a range of styles from studs to dangling pearls. There are many reasons why men should get their ears pierced and add stylish earrings to their collection, including the fact that they can be very flattering on some facial shapes.
There are several different types of jewellery for men, each with its own unique style and meaning. One classic is the signet ring, which can be engraved with a family crest, initials or something of personal significance. Another is the signet cuff, which looks like a traditional cuff but with a unique textured design.
Bracelets are also a popular choice for men, with the right design making them look modern and masculine. Be sure to choose a bracelet that matches the rest of your accessories – mixing metals can look messy. Similarly, avoid wearing a chain bracelet with a leather or suede strap as this can look untidy.
A men’s bangle can be a bold and striking addition to any outfit, with some brands such as London’s Serge DeNimes creating bracelets with a strong aesthetic that combine both functionality and form. Some bracelets are also made from less traditional materials, such as bone and wood, which have a more natural feel.
Some brands are stepping away from the high-end designer label route to create unique and innovative jewelry for men. For example, the New York-based 1017 Alyx 9sm aims to unite technical innovation with human emotion. This is reflected in its men’s line, which includes bold bracelets like the ‘Rollercoaster’, as well as rings and necklaces inspired by subversive cultures.
While the world of jewellery for men can seem a little confusing, it’s easy to find pieces that match your individual style. The key is to take it slow and build up your confidence, especially when you’re experimenting with more unusual designs. Be sure to keep up with our grooming and technology recommendations by signing up to our GQ Recommends newsletter.