Just Ask Leslie: Jewelry Tips

Dear Leslie,
I’ve noticed that on Oscar night, the two most popular pieces of jewelry seem to be bracelets and earrings. Why is that?

Tara in Long Island

Tara, before I answer your question, I must first state that I am not sure I agree with your assumption. There were a number of thin, neck-hugging necklaces on display at last year’s Oscars, as well as eye-popping brooches playing best supporting actress to eye-popping dresses. The reason you may not have noticed the necklaces is that Oscar attendees often opt for shorter necklaces in subtle designs like diamond and white gold so as not to distract people’s focus from their faces and their gowns. While these materials reflect the light and look sublime in person, they are often hard to see in paparazzi fashion shots.

Brooches are also easy to miss if you don’t know where to look for them. Often worn on the backs or shoulder straps of Oscar gowns, you may have thought the brooch was part of the dress, when in fact it was a designer-made accessory. Brooches are intricately designed and often contain a high concentration of gems, making them the perfect compliment to a custom-made dress. Although most of the brooches seen at the Oscars are diamond, I love this colorful butterfly shaped brooch, for its eye-catching colors and delicate shape.

Now to address your question. The reason you thought bracelets and earrings are the most popular types of Oscar jewelry, is because these two items are usually the most noticeable. Starlets with short hair or upswept hair-dos are likely to choose a large pair of earrings to frame their face or a short, gem heavy pair to reflect their sparkling eyes. Last year, Gwyneth Paltrow wore a lovely pair of tear-drop earrings, a feminine an elegant choice. Cluster earrings are another common choice for those walking the red carpet. Cluster earrings, such as the stunning diamond and white gold pair shown at left, catch the light and the media’s attention, which of course is what every starlet wants.

Bracelets are also a major eye-catcher at the Oscar’s, as many of the gowns are sleeveless, so the eye roams to any accessory on the arm. Many stars choose large silver or gold bracelets or shimmery, gem filled numbers, such as the elegant ruby and diamond bracelet at right.

This year, pay close attention to necks and dresses and you will see even more breathtaking jewelry than you are used to when you just notice the bracelets and earrings.