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Nice jewelry has a way of making us feel beautiful and put together. No outfit for me is complete without my earrings, ring, and necklace. However, have you ever wondered what jewelry is appropriate for work?
This was some useful advice I received early in my corporate career when I took a course on ‘how to give a good presentation’. There was a segment on how to dress for a presentation which included jewelry for professional women. It has been very valuable and I have used the advice throughout my work life.
Have you ever found yourself in a meeting distracted by a big obnoxious pendant, or goofy, dangly earrings someone was wearing? When you are at your job, and you have to interact with colleagues, you want people to look at you and focus on what you are saying. You can do this by keeping your clothes and your jewelry, simple and classic.
Where would these jewelry recommendations apply?
- Business Offices
- Home office, remote work, or work from home jobs
- Job interviews
- Teleconferences, or webinars
- Sales calls and/or customer visits
- Presentations
These recommendations are generally for corporate jobs, where the dress code tends to be business casual or formal. You can use your good sense to alter for a different job. For instance, if you work in an art gallery, or are a hair dresser, you may be able to have more statement pieces with more design. Alternatively, if you work outdoors, such as in landscaping, or have a extremely casual job, consider toning it down. Or perhaps you wear a labcoat, and have a strict ‘no jewelry’ policy for safety reasons. However, if you are uncertain what to do, go simpler. When in doubt, leave it out.
What jewelry not to wear at work?
- Big, gaudy pendants, or charms
- Earrings that are too long, glitzy or distracting
- Beads that are too ornate
- Choker necklaces that are too prominent or constrictive
- Earrings that are too sparkly or shiny (a little sparkle maybe okay)
- Earrings that have distracting or flashy charms or tacky objects
- Jewelry that is uncomfortable, bothers you, or hurts
What style should you go for when choosing jewelry for work?
You want to look pretty but not create a distraction. Show that you put in a nice effort to get dressed, but don’t call unnecessary attention to yourself. You want people to see your lovely face and features and hear all the important things you have to say. You want them to focus on your message, not on your jewelry.
- Simple and classic
- Elegant and classy
- Flattering, and complements your features and outfit.
- Polished and sophisticated.
- Can be “real” or costume jewelry
- Can be formal or casual
- Can be expensive or inexpensive
What jewelry is appropriate to wear regularly for your job
- Earrings
- Necklace
- (optional) – a ring
- (optional) – a bracelet, or watch
Best earrings to wear to work
Stud earrings – Studs are perfect for work, because they are simple and generally don’t take up a lot of space on your ear. You can have pretty colored gems or even a bit of sparkle.
Elegant Hoops – This is a classic piece you can wear in gold or silver. You can vary the length of the hoops. Generally the shorter, the more formal the vibe you tend to give off. I tend to wear longer hoops at more casual work events or meetings.
Sophisticated drop earrings with simple stones – These are elegant and also give you a bit of style. Look for lengths that don’t hang too low below the earlobe. I also love earrings with a built-in clasp like these because I often lose earring backs. I have these in different colors.
Best necklaces to wear to work
Rope chain necklaces – Chains can have an embellishment like this rope chain, yet still be polished and professional. Choose whether you love gold or silver.
Classy necklaces with a small colorful pendant – I love to add a pop of color in a necklace. If you do so, for work, opt for a small design containing the gem. Try different colored stones.
Can I wear rings or a bracelet?
A favorite ring (s) such as your wedding and engagement ring are perfectly fine. I would avoid wearing too many rings, such as on every finger. A bracelet is fine if it is classy like a tennis bracelet and on the simple, formal side.
Does it matter if I wear gold or silver to work?
No, choose the type that complements your complexion or that you love to wear.
Can I not wear jewelry to work?
Yes, it is fine to omit jewelry if you don’t like to wear it, you feel it is uncomfortable, or your job doesn’t allow it. However, I find a bit of jewelry really adds some style, accent, and polish to your work look. It makes you look like you care when you dress for work. However, what’s most important is to feel comfortable and like yourself.
Jewelry also makes great gifts. So these recommendations are great for the career gal in your life! Think about jewelry as a gift for your mom, daughter, girlfriend, sister, wife, etc. Who doesn’t love to receive jewelry:)
Wearing jewelry that is appropriate at work may make you feel confident, beautiful and joyful. Make it a compliment to your work outfits, such as your comfortable work from home outfits. May your work be a source of comfort and joy in your life!
