As the Holidays approach I thought I should give some tips on how to buy jewelry for your friends. For the most part you know their taste, but here are some important things to consider when buying necklaces for your friends.
You want to take into consideration how tall your friend is. I am 5'7" and until I started selling jewelry it never even occured to me that people that weren't my height didn't always look best in the big bold necklaces that I am so fond of making. Of course there are exceptions to every rule but here are some general guidelines...
Petite Women (5'4"ish and under): Your best bet for a shorter gal is a collar length or a little longer necklace. If the necklace gets too long (like past the waist) it's also a bad thing. A longish necklace can elongate and hey..that's always a good thing right! From seeing a ton of women try on my necklaces I would also say that for the most part....smaller pendants look better on skinny petite women.
Average Women (5'4" to 5'7"): The "average" woman can pretty much rock any necklace that she desires. The only exception would be for the full busted woman. For her pick a necklace that is a little higher on the neck around the collar bone.
Tall Women(Over 5'7"): My two closest girlfriends fall into this category. They look fabulous in everything. I especially like them in necklaces with huge pendants. A woman that is tall and slim (lucky girl!) looks good in a choker too because it de-emphasises height.
* * *
Another related tip would be that if your friends have a thicker neck they will feel more comfortable with a longer necklace. Since most of my necklaces are adjustable by 2 inches it is not a problem but I would try to pick an adjustable necklace that starts out at 15.5 inches or above. For the non-adjustable ones go for one that is 17 inches or more.
* * *
Stylewise you probaly know best. You know what your girlfriend likes. Although it is kinda fun to get them something that might be a little more sassy than they would usually wear. I have converted many of my customers to bigger pendants over the years. My sister is among the converts. She started out as a Dainty Diva and now those are "too small" for her. Victory is mine!!!
* * *
As far as colors go, try to think about what outfits she has that are bare (ie no accessories). Never see her wear a necklace with that cute blue shirt? Get her a blue necklace! Does she have a ton of black necklaces? Try brown! If you are feeling super brave get her a necklace in a color that she may not wear a lot of but you think looks great on her. Then she'll get to buy herself a new top!
* * *
I hope this helps a little. If you want to buy your friends earrings please read the "Earrings to Flatter Face Shapes" series. There are some great tips there to help your girlfriends look their best!
If you need more suggestions you can always e-mail me!
Pssst...if you want a deal on your purchase go here!
