Elegant, Anti-Trend and Seriously Chic—Every Wardrobe Deserves a Simple Gold Bracelet
My love of jewellery knows no bounds. With a mother boasting an enviable collection of ‘80s jewellery, including doorknocker earrings, Grecian style wrist cuffs and a collection of African gold (dreamy, non?), you could say I was destined for life as a magpie and indeed I followed suit. In 2023 I took this one step further and had a bracelet welded, so a fine, unassuming chain sits on my wrist and despite my initial worry about its permanence, it’s become like second skin. There’s an unrivalled sentimental value to jewellery, which is why it always makes a heartfelt gift and over the past few years, bracelets (in particular, the simple kind) have become a jewellery hero, inspiring the rise in welded bracelet services.
Noughties trends were geared towards playfully stacked bracelets (the type you could hear on ones person before you saw them) however, now the trends are favouring contemporary-feeling forever pieces. Cartier’s Love bangle (albeit chunkier than the average) became a highly sought-after accessory, with fashion people decorating their wrists with a single or many, and although it’s proven itself to be an imitable investment piece, there’s been a gradual shift towards refined jewellery – weightless pieces that are easy to wear regardless of the occasion.
Although eye-catching statement bracelets have their place in a jewellery capsule, simple bracelets
are favoured by most, as like with capsule clothing, they fit seamlessly into many jewellery collections and style aesthetics. I searched high and low and pulled together some of my favourite simple bracelets. Wear them on their own for a laid-back feel, or layer them for a more-is-more look. From Bruna’s modern spin on pearls to Kitty Joyas' made-to-order solid gold bangle, simple jewellery never looked so chic.
Shop Our Edit of the Chicest Simple Bracelets:
Mateo's diamond bracelet is so fine you'll barely notice it's on, though it has a glistening effect when it catches the light.
Most jewellery in the fine category bears a fine chains, however this is solid band with an interlocking feature still has a refined quality, despite not being quite as discreet.
Kitty Joyas' Solid gold bangle is made to order and can be engraved with sentimental prose or dates. Prices start from £350.
A classic bracelet that will last you season after season.
Embrace contemporary initial pendants with Rachel Jackson's delicate bracelet.
This snake chain would make for a beautiful layering piece with other fine jewels. It also boasts a mighty impressive price point.
Gold intermixed with pearls is an unbeatable contemporary mix.
Astrid & Miyu have an impressive solid gold collection. They also offer a bracelet welding service. I've worn one for the past year and it's become like second skin.
You'll love having this classic in your collection.
Stone and Strand is one of my favourite brands for dainty pieces live this 10-karat gold bracelet.
Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities. She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist. Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne. She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.
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