Oscar De La Renta Necklace: Pierre Winter on 2013

A funky touch or a statement piece, Australian Vogue zooms in on colors, stones and shapes: Jeweler Pierre Winter shares insider information on what to look out for this summer.

GL: What is the ultimate piece of jewellery to invest in this summer?

PW: A statement necklace, ring and/or earrings with a cuff or bracelet – matching sets are back. Wear earrings and bracelet in the office, and add a necklace for an after-work function.

GL: How would you suggest wearing the latest round of jewels?

PW: There are still two main styles: smaller pieces layered up to get a statement look or larger pieces. Wear two necklaces on top of each other, or for day, stack up and mismatch lots of bracelets and bangles, mix metals (white metal with rose gold), and add stones. Keep in mind that gold tones suit most skin types, while white metals can be a bit hard against your skin, especially in summer. Like clothes, you are wearing the pieces; don’t let the pieces wear you.

GL: What has been grabbing your attention lately?

PW: Rose gold, stones in strong colours, pearls mixed in with other materials, and brooches – a great way to change a look. Neck collars will go on for another season, along with chains, and hard raw metals with an oxidised finish. Orange is strong for 2013, so jewellery will follow.

GL: What constitutes a good jewellery investment?

PW: Jewellery tends to stay in fashion, or beyond fashion. Look for strong, well-made pieces; cheap jewellery will look just that – cheap.

GL: Who are the designers you are drawn to right now?

PW: Alexis Bittar and Oscar de la Renta are two of our strongest lines: Alexis Bittar for being avant garde and always new; Oscar for being classy, feminine, strong and confident. Also worth a look are Raven Kauffman handmade bags, which are like pieces of jewellery and in store this season.

GL: Your best tip when it comes to jewellery?

PW: Don’t be afraid to wear jewellery – it can cheer up any outfit! Have fun: there is no right way, only your way, to wear jewellery. Most of all, make an impression!

Pictures: Oscar De La Renta necklace from Pierre Winter Fine Jewels on pierrewinterfinejewels.com