Books, magazines and cable shows abound with information about creating a functional clothing wardrobe.  Very little, however, can be found on creating a jewelry wardrobe.  Mary Loging Designs, in partnership with Metamorphosis Image Transformation, an image consulting company, offers help with building your own jewelry wardrobe.

Nancy Harris, owner of Metamorphosis Image Transformation states, "At this point, in mid 2009, we are hearing about and seeing trends of returning to basics.  We want to invest in well made products that will last for years.  Some of us have known this all along - like those suits from Talbots that have lasted ten years." 

Mary Loging Designs believes so much in investing in basics that we have established pearl products as our core business.  

 

Common Principles:

• Buy the best you can afford.  This is as true for jewelry as it is for furniture.

• Be bold about editing what jewelry you already own. 

• Organize and clean your jewelry.  Your storage doesn't have to be fancy - plastic shoe boxes from the Container Store are great.  Just label them and stack them on top of each other.  We find it helpful to line the bottom with their Easy Liner to prevent the jewelry from rolling around.

• The basics in your fully outfitted basic jewelry wardrobe will work for any occasion.  They also lay the foundation for add on items.

 

Begin with Basics

• High quality, well made pearl chokers in white, cream, dark grey. 

• Earring hoops in sterling silver and the highest quality gold you can afford.

• Pearl earrings in either studs, french wires or simple dangles.

• If you wear watches, you'll want one for daily work and play and then a silver or gold one for dressier occasions.

Color

• Work your favorite colors into your jewelry.  

• If you are not a matchy-matchy person, use complementary tones.     

• Remember that jewelry with texture such as ethnic pieces can be great with neutral clothing.

Add-ons

• Wear two identical pearl chokers together.  Mary Loging Designs sells sets of two chokers for this purpose.

• Try layering several different length chains. You’ll achieve a more cohesive look if you combine like metals.

• For a dressier suit look, wear a pearl choker and a brooch on the jacket front shoulder or lapel.

• Treat yourself to some investment jewelry every year. This is a great way to build a fabulous jewelry wardrobe over time. For example, buy three gold stack rings with diamonds or gemstones. This will be an incentive to keep your nails looking great.