Do you want to dress up your workplace wardrobe with jewelry, but you're not sure which pieces are right for the work environment? You're not alone; many people have this problem. Matching jewelry to your outfit is an art, not a science, and then you also have to choose jewelry that works in your workplace. It takes practice to find a style that works for you. However, you'll have a much easier time if you avoid these common jewelry mistakes.
Wearing Distracting Jewelry
The purpose of jewelry is to catch the eye and accentuate your outfit or some physical feature of yours, so you don't want to wear jewelry that just blends in. On the other hand, your jewelry shouldn't be so noticeable that it's a distraction, especially in a place where people are trying to work.
As a general rule, you should avoid anything that makes noise. Most workplaces aren't the right venue for multiple metal bracelets that make a jangling sound when you walk. You should also avoid pieces that scatter too much light. A diamond ring or pendent is fine – a diamond-studded necklace is too much for the workplace.
Avoiding Personality
Although you want to avoid jewelry that's loud or too visually flashy, you shouldn't fall back on something generic and boring either. It's fine to wear jewelry that reflects your personality and makes a statement about you.
Wear a vintage brooch if you like antique jewelry. If you prefer something edgy, show off the funky beaded bracelet that you bought at a local art fair. Are you passionate about a certain cause? Look for awareness jewelry that's meant to bring attention to a charity or cause. It can be a conversation starter in the breakroom, and it says something about who you are and what you care about.
Not Considering Workplace Hazards
Not everyone works in an office, and in some workplaces, certain types of jewelry are a bad idea for safety reasons. For example, most nurses know not to wear anything that dangles, whether it's a necklace or hoop earrings, because a patient could grab it while they're bending over a bed. Elementary school teachers, daycare workers, and veterinary assistants should consider taking the same advice.
Do you work with or around chemicals? Skip the rings and wristwatches, as chemicals can end up underneath the ring band or wrist band, causing irritations or burns. If you work with machines, you should be aware that dangling jewelry can get caught in the machine components and pull you along with it. Even in an office, jewelry can have its hazards. For example, wearing a ring while you're trying to fix a printer jam can lead to damage to the ring, the printer, and your finger.
Considering how you can avoid these mistakes will help you choose the jewelry that best suits you and your workplace. Then you can experiment with pairing different pieces with different outfits until you find a look that's right for you. For more information, see a website such as http://www.aweinspired.com.
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