From Runway to Realway: Necklaces Take the Fashion Spotlight for Spring '08

NEW YORK, April 10 /PRNewswire/ -- MS -- The new status accessory this
season is the statement necklace. From the catwalk to the red carpet, the
necklace is enjoying a revival. Leading this comeback are Hollywood's starlets
... and they were making a fashion statement at this year's Oscars with
gorgeous looks for the neck.
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080410/NYTHFNS1 )
Nicole Kidman wore a simple black gown accented with a dramatic diamond
sautoir necklace; and Keri Russell's champagne strapless gown was accessorized
beautifully by strands of marquis-cut diamonds. Laura Linney's yellow gold
pendant necklace lent drama and elegance to a black strapless Michael Kors
gown.
But women who don't have blockbuster budgets or fashion entourages can
still borrow ideas from tinseltown and add drama to their own wardrobe.
Jewelry is the key.
"Necklaces can easily take an outfit from day into night," says Jeff
Roberts, President and CEO of the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO).
"Necklaces can also help women get more play from fundamental pieces in their
wardrobe, providing a variety of looks."
When choosing quality pieces to add to your jewelry collection, select
styles that are offered by Master IJO Jewelers. Master IJO Jewelers are hand
picked by the Independent Jewelers Organization and adhere to an ethical code
of conduct offering the honesty, trust and integrity no other jeweler can
provide. Also consider the following tips from the experts at IJO when buying
a necklace or any other piece of jewelry:
-- Pay attention to scale: A woman's stature can play a role in the
necklace she chooses. A large necklace may "swim" on a woman with a
petite frame. Other women may be able to support such a necklace, where
a smaller piece may look out of proportion.
-- Invest in quality: Select pieces that may cost a little more now but
are sure to be worn for years to come. Remember, wearing a beautiful
necklace along with a budget-friendly dress or suit can make it appear
you spent a fortune on the entire ensemble.
-- Experiment with shape and color: Stand in front of the mirror and try
on a variety of necklaces to see what shape or color is most
complementary. From pendants to chokers and lariats, don't be afraid to
try them all. Find out if the cooler shade of white gold works better
with your skin tone, or if the warmer shades of pink or yellow gold are
more satisfactory options.
-- Know where to buy: Visit www.masterjeweler.com to view a wide selection
of necklaces and other pieces and locate a retailer in your area that
specializes in these pieces. Choose among "Charmed," a
medieval-inspired 18k two tone yellow and white gold pendant with
.94ct. tw diamonds; "Shimmer," a delicate 14k white gold necklace with
.50ct tw diamonds; or "Olympia," a Grecian 14k yellow gold graduated
gold necklace with hammer finish, as just a few of the many options.

SOURCE Independent Jewelers Organization

Metro Editorial Services for Independent Jewelers Organization,
+1-800-223-1600