CHOOSING JEWELLERY TO SUIT YOUR NECKLINE

We were inspired to look at necklines and jewellery this week after seeing a graphic online about what jewellery to wear with each neckline, but having had a play around in our jewellery boxes, I think it's safe to say that you can wear more than one style with each neckline - a lot will depend on the occasion.

Then there's the question of wearing costume jewellery against more classic pearls or gold and silver- and this might depend not just on the event, but also on your budget.

Since both of our mothers are sadly no longer with us, both of us have extensive jewellery collections - much of it inherited from older family members.

Anne C tends to go for statement costume jewellery pieces, and her pearl and turquiose necklace is no exception.  This is a piece from Bizermani, a Greek company, but theeir website translates into English.  She has a favourite shop in Thira, Santorini, which she visits every year on holiday and is building up quite a collection of their pieces.

Sometimes you look at a photograph after it's been taken and realist that something didn't work, and although the necklace looks fine with a classic V neck, the drop pearl and bow earrings don't actually go well with the overall look.  Next time it will be either smaller pearls or turquoise studs with this top and necklace!

Same top - which is a silk wrapover front which Anne has had for years, which she has accessorised with a beautiful glass necklace with matching earrings and bracelet, which she bought from an Asian jeweller whom she mentored when she first set up in business some years ago as part of a Women in Business programme. Unfortunately she is no longer selling jewellery, which is a great shame, as Anne loved her products and has several other items bought from her. The ring was a gift from the other Anne a couple of years ago, and was bought for her in Tropea, Italy.

Anne's black drape neck top is from COS and cries out for statement necklace that matches the sweep of the neckline adding drama to the overall look.  This one is also from Greek jeweller Bizermani and is unusual in that it is part lace, part bead, and sits comfortably on this scoop neckline.

This statement red necklace was bought at a charity event and came from Conwy Pearls.  Anne fell in love with this rather over-the-top piece, but it is a limited edition as all her stunning pieces are handmade (she's just had a look at the website and is now drooling...)

It would work well with a low neckline, but the ivory top from Phase Eight is the perfect foil for the colour and contrasts well. The simple red petal earrings with diamante centres aren't a set but they do complement the necklace.

Another top from COS with a higher crew style neck is ideal for accessorizing with either a short necklace that complements the neckline like this striking purple one that Anne purchased a number of years ago.  It works equally well with a longer necklace like this colourful chunky one that was also purchased in Greece.

This black stone with diamante drops and matching earrings is shown off on a square neckline, with a top from Weekenders - unfortunately no longer in business. This set also came from the previous Asian jeweller.

Finally, this  classic cream silk shirt from Whistles cries out for creamy vintage pearls like these from Anne's mum with their age giving them the most beautiful patina  She has added some small pearl earrings bought in the Far East with bangles and pearl ring from Pandora.