Most Popular Designer Bracelets
Bracelets are easily the most underrated and overlooked jewellery item ever. But why? They’re so versatile, make great gifts and of course, they’re effortlessly stylish. A bracelet compliments any outfit and with so many styles to choose from, the possibilities are endless. But do you know your bangle from your bracelet? Your cuff from your torque? Before you indulge in reckless bracelet splurging, let us show you the most popular designer bracelet styles.
What’s the difference between a bracelet and a bangle?
First, you need to understand the difference between a bracelet and a bangle. Chances are, you’ve probably heard the two words thrown around together but - they’re not actually the same thing!
Bracelets are worn around the wrist and are more flexible in design compared to bangles. They can feature rows of beads, links, chains, threads or hoops, which are joined together with a clasp at each end. The beauty of bracelets is that they’re flexible and don’t have to hold a particular shape, making your wrist look more exciting! They’re typically made from silver, gold, platinum and other materials like pearls, beads and rope. Bracelets can really be made of anything as long as there’s a clasp at the end!
In comparison, bangles are rigid solid pieces of jewellery. They’re ring-shaped and tend to be plain and simple, without anything hanging from them. They’re typically made from the same metal or material all the way around, like metal, wood, plastic or glass.
Now that you know the difference, let’s look into more specific styles of designer bracelets.
Chain
Unsurprisingly, chain bracelets are made of chains! This type of bracelet is made up of a series of chain links, either the same size or differing sizes for more texture. Chain bracelets are easily the most customisable and versatile bracelets on the market. You can pick something simple and laidback with a plain chain or make it more decorative with a gemstone, initial or knotted addition.
Chains have been popular for centuries, but especially in the 2010s. Whether you’re dressing up or down, a chain bracelet is never out of place in any outfit. When you add gemstones to a chain bracelet, you add a pop of colour and vibrancy, like the Antibes Chrysoprase Bracelet. The cooling green gem with the gold vermeil chain gives a bright Summery look – even when it’s Winter!
Charm
A charm bracelet is a bracelet that you can attach decorative charms to. They’re also known as friendship bracelets. Charm bracelets come in many styles, and you can clip or screw charms on to the main band.
Charm bracelets are the most personal kind of designer bracelet. They make beautiful and memorable gifts, which you can add to for years to come. Being able to choose your charms makes your jewellery more personal to you and reminds you of the people who gave you the charms!
The classic charm bracelet has experienced a revival with shell bracelets trending. Shell bracelets are perfect for that laid back holiday look.
Cuff
Cuffs are open bracelets made of metal or a material that holds its shape. Without a clasp, they’re easier to slip on the wrist despite their thick width. The openness is fashionable and makes the chunky style bolder and more confident. Cuffs come in thinner sizes, but the bigger and thicker styles are most exciting.
While you can wear cuffs with almost anything, they look especially good on people who add a “rock’n’roll” edge to their fashion. They’re easily stackable and simple to match with. The Abercrombie Silver Bangle isn’t a traditional cuff but pairs beautifully with open styles.
Tennis
The tennis bracelet is the most classic designer bracelet. And don’t worry – you don’t have to play or watch tennis to wear one! A tennis bracelet is made up of a strong line of diamonds that wraps around the wrist.
Its name came from professional tennis player, Chris Evert. During a match in the US Open, her bracelet fell off her wrist and she paused the game to find it! Tennis bracelets look beautiful on or off the field. Beautifully simple and sophisticated, they’re perfect for a sparkly night-out.
Torque
A torque bangle is similar to a cuff with its open style. However, they tend to be thinner and are traditionally adorned with round ball ends. Torque bracelets are ideal for those who love minimalist designs and simple shapes.
The Curzon Gold Torq Bangle is the ultimate everyday luxury piece. It can be engraved with names, dates and message for that personal touch. This designer bangle makes the perfect gift and pairs beautifully with a monochrome or colourful outfit.
Crystal
Crystal bracelets such as the Barcelona Birthstone Bracelet and those with natural gemstones are often believed to hold super powers and healing properties.
Crystal bracelets have the power to embolden their wearer, giving you the extra confidence push you sometimes need. It is also believed to combat insomnia – try placing it under your pillow next time you’re counting sheep.
