Jewellery transforms a look in an instant: it lifts your outfits, adds a touch of glamour and flatters your silhouette. Getting it right comes down to three cues, spelled out below: your body shape (V, A, H/I, O, X or petite), the neckline and fabric of your outfit, and a handful of timeless go-anywhere pieces such as the fine pendant or elongated rings. Far more than mere fashion accessories, they reveal your personality and refine your style.
Matching your jewellery to your body shape
V-shape: go for long sautoir necklaces
Is your V-shaped silhouette defined by broad shoulders and narrow hips? Reach for long, statement sautoir necklaces that fall just below the bust or around the navel. These pieces lengthen your silhouette while rebalancing your proportions.
If you have a fuller bust, favour flat bib necklaces that avoid adding volume. Alternatively, a discreet pendant sitting at the top of the neckline underlines this area with elegance.
A-shape: play up the bust with bold jewellery
A-shaped figures, with hips wider than the shoulders, are flattered by voluminous bib necklaces or large hoop earrings. These pieces dress up a slighter bust and draw attention away from the hips towards the upper body.
Long necklaces, with or without a pendant, create the same sought-after effect. They naturally lead the eye up towards the top of your silhouette.
H and I shapes: add femininity with structured jewellery
Straight H- or I-shaped figures benefit from jewellery that brings shape and volume. Bold pieces or a layering of finer ones work beautifully to add femininity to these naturally androgynous silhouettes.
Petite figures: anything goes
You're lucky enough to be able to carry off every style! From fine multi-strand sautoir necklaces to simple pendants, everything flatters your delicate frame. Backless necklines paired with fine chains are especially stunning on chignons and short cuts.
O-shape: dare to wear statement pieces
Curvier silhouettes pair harmoniously with substantial pieces that follow the body's curves. Steer clear of overly delicate items that risk going unnoticed, unless they feature sparkling stones or ultra-on-trend geometric motifs.
X-shape: complete freedom
Your balanced silhouette lets you wear all kinds of jewellery. Make the most of this freedom to experiment with different styles!
| Body shape | Recommended jewellery |
|---|---|
| V (broad shoulders, narrow hips) | Long, statement sautoir necklaces below the bust or at the navel; flat bib necklace or discreet pendant if the bust is fuller |
| A (hips wider than the shoulders) | Voluminous bib necklaces, large hoop earrings, long necklaces with or without a pendant |
| H / I (straight silhouette) | Bold pieces or a layering of finer ones |
| Petite figure | Fine multi-strand sautoir necklaces, simple pendants, fine chains worn down the back |
| O (curvier silhouette) | Statement pieces that follow the curves, sparkling stones or geometric motifs |
| X (balanced silhouette) | Complete freedom: every style works |
Choosing your jewellery to suit your outfit
Harmonising with the neckline
The neckline of your garment largely determines the choice of jewellery. Bib necklaces and short necklaces pair perfectly with solid surfaces such as boat, round or shirt collars. The bulk of the necklace should cover the fabric or rest directly against the skin.
These pieces, on the other hand, sit awkwardly with U-, V- or square necklines. Avoid pairing them with frills and lace as well.
Enhancing plunging necklines
With an open or plunging neckline, opt for a short pendant necklace teamed with earrings. This combination flatters your face while letting the garment express itself to the full.
When your shoulders are bare, large earrings strike the perfect balance.
Rebalancing volumes with loose-fitting outfits
Loose-fitting outfits such as boyfriend shirts or jumper dresses go wonderfully with long necklaces and pendant sautoirs. These pieces add femininity to the silhouette by rebalancing its volumes and lengthening it.
Don't hesitate to embrace a dandy look by blurring the genres and playing on the masculine-feminine mix.
Balancing very feminine outfits
If your outfit is very feminine, body-hugging and adorned with crystals or lace, favour discreet jewellery. You can even go without, or simply wear stud earrings.
Playing with textures
Airy or soft fabrics (linen, cotton, boiled wool, silk chiffon) call for structured, graphic jewellery that lends elegance to the way you carry yourself.
Conversely, if your outfit is very structured (a padded-shoulder blazer, a neoprene dress, a pencil skirt), go instead for a piece worn away from the garment: a ring, earrings or a necklace against the skin.
The essential go-anywhere pieces
The fine pendant: the must-have ally
Delicate and feminine, the fine pendant is easy to wear and flatters every face. It accompanies plunging necklines in summer and can be worn over fabrics in winter. Be sure to choose an original stone or motif that stands out from the crowd.
Teardrop and diamond-shaped earrings
These shapes follow the features of every face perfectly while staying discreet and feminine. They make a safe choice for any occasion.
Universal elongated rings
They suit every hand, whether slender or broad. Opt for a bold ring for extra pep and sophistication.
Modern bangle bracelets
They can be worn alone, stacked or paired with a watch. These pieces bring plenty of elegance to outfits that leave the arms bare and add an unrivalled modern touch.
Ultimately, choosing your jewellery is a delicate art that blends knowledge of your body shape, a sense of style and sartorial harmony. These precious allies transform your look in an instant and reveal your unique personality.
