Men’s Jewelry… Approach with Care

Men’s jewelry is a contentious topic for many. Some people feel very strongly that men’s bodies should remain strictly unadorned except of course for a watch, while others favor the increased self-expression that these items bring. Whatever the case, when investing in men’s jewelry, it’s best to leave the flashy items for FlavaFlav and aim for accessories with some dignity.

Bracelets

A bracelet should not be sexually ambiguous. It should be big and chunky so as to differentiate itself from more feminine styles. Unless you are Jay-Z, it is furthermore unacceptable to be dripping in diamonds and showing off your bling-bling. I think bracelets for men can work well when they are simple and sturdy. Your best bet is to go with a chain-link bracelet or something similar.

Pictured one from Dolce and Gabbana is undeniably masculine and stylish. I am not, however, a fan of leather wraparound bracelets, which are too S&M-inspired to be worn in most respectable locations.

Watches

A watch tells more about a man that any other article of clothing or set of accessories and neither a man’s wardrobe or identity are complete without one. If you are going to splurge on any item at all, it should be a watch as it both the item on which you will most likely be judged and is often (justly or unjustly) used as a marker for success. A high-quality watch is something that can be passed on from generation to generation as a family heirloom; as the slogan of Patek Phillipe goes, “You never really own a Patek Phillipe, you merely look after it for the next generation.”

Rings

Besides a wedding band, it is hard for a man to pull off wearing a ring without looking either like Phil Leotardo from the Sopranos or a car mechanic. At the same time, it is still not impossible.

Rings like pictured one from Gucci are simple and attractive while not overwhelming. Basic rules for making rings work is to not wear any diamonds in them and also to steer away from gold. One absolute is that your class ring should remain off your finger until a meeting with your alma mater’s dean to try to get your legacy child into the same prep school (when applicable).

Necklaces

Necklaces again are a tricky item to pull of and it can really only be done well by certain types of people. Long chain necklaces look good on thin, hipster types who have a tendency to wear low-cut V-neck as well as open collard shirts. Necklaces made of string, shells, hemp, or any combination are reserved for middle school children and surfer punks. Middle-aged men should stay away for fear of again looking like a Mafioso.