It’s true that most of us have a penchant for particular things, maybe it’s shoes, maybe like my boyfriend Adam, it’s fancy-schmancy watches. For me, it’s jewellery – any jewellery from the cheapest tat to swoon-worthy pieces.
I’m always attracted to those stalls and shops in markets and bazaars that sell jewellery en masse. Silver rings, stackable beaded bracelets, gold pendants on long chains, unique earrings. You name it, I want it. Today I’m talking through a few of my favourite pieces of costume jewellery that make my day (and outfit) that little bit brighter. Though if minimal jewellery is more your thing, you might enjoy this post more.
Current casual jewellery favourites…
Mood rings
I love mood rings and have worn one on and off for years. I usually buy them from gift shops, or market places such as Grand Central in Liverpool, The Corn Exchange in Leeds or Afflecks in Manchester. These two are actually from the Jorvick museum in York! Sure, they can’t exactly predict my mood (neither can I come to think of it!) but they sure do look pretty – minus the green finger after 12 hours of wear.
Chunky earrings
There is something a little retro about these cheery yellow earrings from Primark. They are super chunky and sit nicely against your ears without dragging them down. These are my current favourite pair to wear as they easily add a pop of colour to compliment whatever I’m wearing.
Gold arrow bracelet
You may have noticed my wrist tattoo, which is a simple arrow. I had it done in America a few years ago which you can read all about here. Since getting this particular tattoo, I’m always drawn to jewellery made up of arrows. This dainty gold arrow bracelet* was very kindly sent to me by Aphrodite– an online jewellery store based in Rotterdam.
Afrodite ship internationally so if you’re interested in having a browse of their other gorgeous pieces, do take a look. I have my eye on this choker!
Purple power bracelets
Purple is my favourite colour, so I, of course, had to have a few pieces of jewellery to wear in my favourite shade. These two gorgeous bracelets are from Whispers Red’s Etsy store. Emma, aka ‘Whispers Red’ runs an ASMR Youtube Channel by the same name. If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of ASMR you might find Emma’s videos a bit strange, however, for me personally, they’re my little tonics of goodness when my anxiety has flared up.
I recommend you have a look at Emma’s ASMR work, but be prepared to find yourself seriously relaxed and zen. Also have a nosey at Emma’s Etsy shop if you love crystals, precious stones and spiritually inspired jewellery – She has a great selection of one-off pieces.
Stackable beaded bracelets
I collect beaded bracelets like the ones you can see above. I just think they’re super easy to wear and add a little something, something to your wrists. Some of mine are from the quirky independent shops within Brighton’s Laine’s (One shop enticed me in as it had a fluffy tuxedo cat sat on the counter) and the others are from Flying Tiger.
You can, however, pick up beaded bracelets like this from pretty much anywhere. I love to wear mine in colour ‘families’ – this is my neutral stack and it goes with just about anything I’m wearing.