As the party season approaches, finding the perfect accessories to complement your outfit can be just as important as selecting the right attire. Vintage jewellery, with its timeless elegance, unique craftsmanship, and ability to make a bold statement, is the ideal choice for any festive occasion.
Whether attending a formal holiday gathering, a New Year’s Eve bash, or an office party, adding a touch of vintage glamour can instantly elevate your look and set you apart from the crowd.
So, what are the best vintage jewellery pieces to consider for the party season? From bold Art Deco earrings to classic pearl necklaces, we’ll help you navigate the world of vintage jewellery and choose the perfect pieces to enhance your festive wardrobe.
Why choose vintage jewellery for the party season?
There’s something undeniably alluring about vintage jewellery. It carries a sense of history, nostalgia, and individuality that modern mass-produced pieces often lack. During the party season, where glitz and glamour are at the forefront, vintage jewellery can help you stand out by adding character and sophistication to your look.
Here are some reasons why vintage jewellery is the perfect choice for festive events:
- Timeless style: Vintage jewellery transcends trends, offering a sense of elegance that never goes out of fashion
- Unique pieces: Each vintage piece is unique, often handmade with care and precision, making it unlikely that anyone else at the party will have the same accessory
- Sustainable fashion: Choosing vintage jewellery is an eco-friendly option, as it supports sustainable fashion by giving new life to pre-loved items
- Conversation starters: Vintage pieces often come with stories or historical significance, making them great conversation starters at social events
The best vintage jewellery pieces for the party season
Art Deco statement earrings
Art Deco jewellery, popular from the 1920s to the 1930s, is characterised by its bold geometric shapes, clean lines, and use of vibrant gemstones. Statement earrings from this era, often featuring diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires, are the epitome of glamour. These earrings are perfect for formal events or black-tie affairs, where a touch of vintage luxury can make your outfit truly stand out.
Art Deco earrings come in a variety of designs, including drop earrings, chandelier styles, and studded designs with intricate detailing. Pair these bold earrings with a simple black dress for a chic, modern look, or complement a sequined gown for full-on vintage glamour.
Styling tip: Keep the rest of your accessories minimal when wearing statement earrings. Let the earrings be the focal point by opting for a sleek updo or side-swept hairstyle.
Vintage brooches: Versatile and chic
Brooches may seem like a forgotten accessory, but vintage brooches from the 1920s to the 1950s are making a comeback, especially during the festive season. These versatile pieces can be worn in multiple ways—on the lapel of a jacket, the waist of a dress, or even as a hair accessory.
Vintage brooches often feature intricate designs with gemstones, enamel detailing, and sometimes pearls, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit.
For the party season, opt for brooches with holiday-themed motifs, such as stars, snowflakes, or floral designs. These pieces are not only festive but can add a hint of sparkle to a plain dress or coat, making them perfect for winter events.
Styling tip: Use a vintage brooch to gather a scarf or accentuate your waist by pinning it to a sash or belt. For a modern twist, try clustering several smaller brooches together for a statement look.
Cocktail rings for cocktail hour
Nothing says “party season” like an oversized cocktail ring. These bold, eye-catching rings became popular in the 1940s and 1950s, often featuring large colourful gemstones set in gold or silver. Cocktail rings are perfect for making a statement and are ideal for formal and semi-formal events, adding a pop of colour and glamour to your ensemble.
Choose a vintage cocktail ring with a gemstone that complements your outfit. Emeralds, sapphires, and rubies are all excellent choices for the festive season. A large gemstone ring can also be a great conversation piece, adding an element of intrigue to your look.
Styling Tip: Wear a cocktail ring on your right hand to avoid competing with wedding or engagement rings. Keep other accessories minimal to let the ring shine.
Classic elegance with pearl necklaces
A string of pearls is perhaps the most classic piece of vintage jewellery you can own. From the flapper-style strands of the 1920s to the shorter, elegant necklaces of the 1950s, pearl necklaces have been a symbol of sophistication for decades. Their timeless appeal makes them a perfect choice for the party season, adding a touch of refinement to any outfit.
Whether you opt for a single strand of pearls or a more elaborate multi-strand necklace, this versatile piece can be worn to both casual and formal events. Pair pearls with a little black dress for a timeless look, or layer them over a silky blouse for a modern twist.
Styling tip: For a more contemporary look, layer different lengths of pearl necklaces together. This adds dimension and creates a more relaxed, yet still elegant, vibe.
Chandelier earrings: Dramatic and glamorous
Chandelier earrings were a staple of 1950s jewellery, known for their intricate designs and dramatic length. These earrings, often featuring cascading tiers of gemstones or crystals, are perfect for adding drama to a party outfit.
Chandelier earrings are ideal for evening events where you want to make a glamorous impression.
For a modern take on vintage chandelier earrings, look for pieces with mixed metals or unusual gemstones. These earrings pair beautifully with cocktail dresses or evening gowns, adding a luxurious touch to your look.
Styling tip: When wearing chandelier earrings, avoid wearing a necklace to keep the focus on your earrings. A sleek hairstyle will also highlight the length and movement of the earrings.
How to choose the right vintage jewellery for your party look
Choosing the right vintage jewellery for the party season depends on a few key factors, including your outfit, the event, and your personal style. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect pieces:
- Match the occasion: Consider the formality of the event. For black-tie events, opt for more elegant, sophisticated pieces like pearl necklaces or diamond-studded brooches. For more casual parties, bold cocktail rings or statement earrings can add just the right amount of flair
- Complement Your outfit: Let your jewellery enhance, rather than overpower, your outfit. If you’re wearing a heavily embellished dress, opt for simpler vintage pieces. Conversely, a plain dress can be brought to life with bold vintage jewellery
- Mix and match eras: Don’t be afraid to mix jewellery from different vintage eras. Combining Art Deco earrings with a 1950s brooch, for example, can create a unique and eclectic look
- Consider comfort: While vintage jewellery can be stunning, it’s important to ensure you’ll be comfortable wearing it throughout the night. Test the weight of heavier pieces like chandelier earrings or cocktail rings to make sure they won’t distract you from enjoying the festivities
Vintage jewellery offers the perfect way to add timeless elegance, individuality, and a touch of glamour to your party season wardrobe. From bold Art Deco earrings to classic pearl necklaces, the right vintage piece can transform your look and make you stand out at any festive event.
So, as you prepare for the upcoming celebrations, consider investing in a few key vintage pieces that will not only enhance your style but also serve as a lasting reminder of the joy and glamour of the party season.
