Styling Tips

The timeless elegance of a white Oxford shirt is an essential staple in every woman's wardrobe. Its enduring appeal never wanes, despite the ever-changing whims of fashion trends. To keep this classic piece versatile and fresh, consider enhancing it with some carefully selected jewelry pieces. Here are six exquisite items that can elevate your favorite white button-down from simple to stunning.
 

1. Thin Chased Copper Cuff Bracelet - For those who prefer a neat, buttoned-up look, our Chased Copper Cuff Bracelet is the perfect accessory. The warm copper hue enriches the crisp white shirt, while the textured surface adds a unique twist. This bracelet is an ideal blend of simplicity and sophistication.
   
   
   
   
    

2. 19 CT Cushion Cut Citrine 14K Gold-filled Earrings - Dangle earrings with a splash of color can beautifully complement a classic white button-down. Our 19 CT Cushion Cut Citrine 14K Gold-filled Earrings offer a vibrant yellow Citrine gemstone encased in a 14-karat gold-filled teardrop form. These earrings add just the right amount of sparkle and color.
   
   
   
   
    

3. Hammered Copper Chain Link Necklace - Selecting the right necklace for a white button-down can be challenging, but our Hammered Copper Chain Link Necklace effortlessly fits the bill. Whether you choose to wear it over your fully-buttoned blouse or tucked underneath with some buttons undone, its hammered links will make a statement either way.
   
   
   
   
    

4. 9 CT Pyrite Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring - For those who appreciate understated elegance, our 9 CT Pyrite Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring is an ideal choice. The radiant tones of shimmering Pyrite juxtaposed with the sleek sheen of Sterling Silver impart a gentle warmth and fascination to your attire. The intricate tree branch design lends an added charm to your ensemble.
   
   
   
   
    

5. Tapered Brushed Anticlastic Aluminum Bangle Bracelet - For more casual affairs, pair your rolled-up sleeves with our striking Tapered Brushed Anticlastic Aluminum Bangle Bracelet. The wide dimension of this cuff makes a bold statement without being overpowering, while its brushed finish lends a sleek touch that's perfect for relaxed settings.
   
   
   
   
    

6. Damask Embossed Copper Teardrop Earrings - Pairing our Damask Embossed Copper Teardrop Earrings with your white button down creates an intriguing contrast to this classic look. While teardrop earrings are timeless, the corrugated folding of the copper gives these earrings a modern edge that refreshes your Oxford shirt.
   
   
   

Explore our entire collection at John S Brana Handmade Jewelry to discover more stunning pieces that can transform your white button-down shirt into something extraordinary. Our diverse selection caters to all styles and occasions—whether you're pairing your favorite blouse with a sleek pencil skirt or opting for the classic jeans-and-button-down look.

FAQ's

1. What jewelry goes well with a white Oxford shirt?
   A variety of jewelry pieces can complement a white Oxford shirt, from delicate cuff bracelets and colorful drop earrings to statement necklaces and rings. The choice depends on your personal style and the occasion.
   
   
2. Can I wear a necklace with a buttoned-up shirt?
   Absolutely! A necklace can be worn over a fully buttoned-up shirt or underneath with some buttons undone. The key is to choose a piece that complements the neckline of your shirt.
   
   
3. What type of earrings should I pair with my white button-down?
   Dangle earrings, especially those with a pop of color or unique design, can beautifully complement a classic white button-down. They add just the right amount of sparkle and color to your outfit.
   
   
4. How do I keep my look casual with jewelry?
   For a more casual look, consider pairing your rolled-up sleeves with a wide cuff bracelet. This makes a bold statement without being overpowering, perfect for relaxed settings.
   
   
5. Can I mix metals when wearing jewelry with my white Oxford shirt?
   Yes, mixing metals can create an intriguing contrast and add depth to your look. Don't be afraid to experiment and find combinations that suit your style.

Date night is when you break out your pretty dresses and skirts and slip into your sexy shoes, so that you can feel and look your most beautiful and alluring. Jewelry can help to put the perfect polished touch on your date night outfit, and we've put together this list of our nine favorite pieces for getting you ready to go out on the town with that special someone. 

1. Corrugated Copper Bangle Bracelet - With its striking spiral shape, the Corrugated Copper Bangle Bracelet has a flattering effect upon the arm, giving the illusion of a narrower wrist. You can wear this piece with sleeves of any length to finish off your lovely date night ensemble.
   
   
   
   

2. Sterling Silver Filigree Open Scroll Earrings - The feminine shape of the Sterling Silver Filigree Open Scroll Earrings makes them a romantic choice for date night and will make even a simple ponytail hairstyle look ultra glamorous.
   
   
   
   

3. Hammered Fine Silver Bracelet with Carnelian - The Hammered Fine Silver Bracelet with Carnelian lets you put a touch of color with a little black dress and is a flattering choice for date night. Combine it with red shoes and a matching handbag for a stunning ensemble.
   
   
   
   

4. Small Chased Copper Drop Earrings - You'll feel chic and look fabulous wearing the Small Chased Copper Drop Earrings. Their 3-inch length and dramatic curves make them a fabulous choice for a dressy evening out.
   
   
   
   

5. Oxidized Sterling Silver Onyx Dogwood Ring - Although incredibly simple, the Oxidized Sterling Silver Onyx Dogwood Ring instantly puts a romantic touch on a date night look. The black onyx gemstone will match any outfit you can imagine, making it a versatile choice.
   
   
   
   

6. Amethyst Sterling Silver Chain Maille Necklace - Complement a sexy plunging date night neckline with the Amethyst Sterling Silver Chain Maille Necklace, and you're sure to drive him wild. This necklace is a lovely look for night with its genuine amethyst gems, but it is available in other colors as well to match your favorite dresses and tops.
   
   
   
   

7. Chased Nu Gold Chandelier Earrings - The Chased Nu Gold Chandelier Earrings exude elegance and will have you looking chic and sophisticated on your date. The size and shape lets these earrings work with an up-do, a half-up look or hair worn completely down.
   
   
   
   

8. 14K Hammered Gold Earrings with Blue Topaz - The 14K Hammered Gold Earrings with Blue Topaz will catch his eye with a touch of color and are a lovely match for blue, black, navy or brown ensembles. The blue topaz stones put a flirty finishing touch on the traditional look of the hammered gold.
   
   
   
   

9. Amethyst Sterling Silver Pendant - The Amethyst Sterling Silver Pendant will match the sparkle in your eyes when you wear this pretty pendant for date night. This is a great piece to wear with a collared blouse and a sexy pencil skirt.
   
   
   
   

These are just nine of the many pieces in the John S. Brana Handmade Jewelry collection that are great choices for date night. Check out our complete collection of handmade necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings to see what else inspires you!

Whether you're preparing for an engagement portrait session, professional portraits or family photographs, you want to look your best when you arrive at the photographer's studio for your session. Wearing jewelry can add interest to your photographs and make for lovely compositions, but you need to be choosy about the pieces that you choose to show off for your photo opportunity. Here is a quick guide on how to select jewelry to wear for photos.

- Necklaces - The right necklace can complete the neckline of your outfit in a photo, but the wrong one can distract from your face. Photoshoots aren't the time for wearing your favorite statement necklace. Instead, stick to a simple chain with a pendant that has a unique shape and a colorful gemstone. Our Smoky Quartz 14K Gold-filled Pendant or our Checkerboard Cut Amethyst 14K Gold-filled Pendant are lovely choices with their scroll-work settings and sparkling stones.


 

- Earrings - The earrings that you choose for your photographs should complement your facial shape. The goal should always be to create the illusion of a more oval-shaped face, so choose narrower earrings for a wider face and broader ones for a narrower face. Putting more weight at the bottom of the earrings can balance a narrow chin, while the opposite is true for a narrow forehead. Experts also recommend choosing colored earrings that complement the temperature of your skin's undertones. For example, a warm colored gemstone like the pale green of our Prehnite Hammered Copper Chandelier Earrings would be perfect for a woman with warm golden or peach undertones. 




- Rings - If you're going for an engagement portrait, your engagement ring is sure to be featured in your photographs, but for all other types of portraits, your hands may or may not end up in the shot. Wearing a beautiful cocktail ring with an attractive, colorful gemstone will ensure that your hands look lovely if they are captured in the shot. Pick a ring with a very large gem, such as our 11 ct Pear Cut Amethyst Sterling Silver Cocktail Ring (pictured below) or our 18.5-carat Cushion Cut Mystic Quartz Sterling Silver Cocktail Ring.




- Bracelets - If you're posing for group pictures, there is a good chance that your wrist will be visible as you put your arm around your spouse or your child. Wearing a simple precious metal cuff or bangle bracelet that is wide and textured will perfectly complete the photo. Looks to try include our Texturized Nu Gold Anticlastic Bangle Bracelet for a yellow gold look, our Linen Texturized Aluminum Cuff for a silver look or our Fluted Copper Cuff for the look of rose gold.

In the John S. Brana Handmade Jewelry collection, you'll find an array of beautiful pieces that will have you dressed to impress in your portraits. You may even want to bring along different necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings to change your look for various shots.

One of the trickiest parts of accessorizing outfits is finding necklaces that are perfectly suited for the neckline on a top or dress. To help make it easier for you to create great outfits, we put together this guide to selecting necklaces for different necklines.

1. Turtleneck - Turtlenecks can be very difficult to style with necklaces, as you don't want to wear something that is too tight around the collar area. An excellent solution is to put a simple chain like our 22-inch Chased Stainless Steel Link Necklace over top of the turtleneck.




2. Crew Neck - Bib necklaces that are not too thick will fit perfectly along the curve of a crew neckline. Our Carnelian & Serpentine Beaded Gemstone Necklace is a great example, as it has a rounded shape, and its mix of pearls, serpentine, carnelian, amazonite and amber is colorful but not too wide.




3. Scoop Neck - With a scoop neck, choose a rounder necklace with plenty of volume. Our Blue Chalcedony White Coral Necklace is an excellent choice with its perfectly shaped mix of white stick coral, blue chalcedony, aqua Venetian glass beads, clear quartz and aqua freshwater pearls.


   

4. Strapless - To complement a strapless neckline, choose a tight fitting choker necklace. A necklace like our Orange Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon Necklace that you can adjust for length will help you to get the right fit without feeling uncomfortable. This particular piece expands from 16 to 20 inches and features orange Italian mesh metal ribbons and carnelian.


 

5. Square - With a square neckline, you want to echo the shape of the top with the shape of your necklace. This is best done with a square or angular pendant like our Green Emerald Cut Gold Quartz 14K Gold-filled Pendant. You can mix and match the necklace with any gold tone chain, so you can easily adjust it to the perfect length to suit your top.




6. Off the Shoulder - Complement the look of an asymmetrical off-the-shoulder top with a necklace that is also asymmetrical. Our Faceted Garnets and Citrine Flower Necklace is a great choice, as it features citrine briolette flowers on one side and simple garnet gemstones and 24-karat gold seed beads on the other.




7. Halter Neck - For a halter neckline, try a pendant necklace with an elongated shape and a narrow width. At 3-1/2 inches in length and 3/4 inches in width, our Lepidochrosite 14K Gold-filled Pendant is a lovely choice for any halter.




8. V-Neck - A wide necklace with a V-shape will flatter any V-neck top. Our Yellow Jade Chain Maille Necklace is perfectly sized and shaped and will also look pretty with a halter.




9. Collared Shirt - For a shirt with a traditional lapel collar, go for an understated pendant necklace and wear it underneath the fabric. Our Oval Green Gold Quartz 14K Gold-filled Pendant will look lovely under blouses and collared dresses of almost any color.





10. Sweetheart - A tear drop pendant will fit perfectly into the small scoop featured on a sweetheart bodice or top. Try our Smoky Quartz 14K Gold-filled Pendant for a stunning look with neutral, go-with-anything color.

We have many other necklaces in our collection that will coordinate with various necklines, so take some time to check out all of our pendant and necklace styles!

Building a beautiful jewelry collection is truly a lifelong endeavor, as most women gradually purchase pieces over the years to add more versatility to their accessories collection. If you're looking for something new and beautiful that you are sure to get years of wear from, it's a good idea to think about which essentials you're missing. We put together this list of the jewelry pieces that every woman should have on hand to mix and match with her ensembles. 

1. A Statement Cuff - An eye-catching cuff bracelet made from precious metal can be worn for virtually any occasion and mixed and matched with other pieces to create beautiful ensembles. Some looks to try include our silver-toned Aluminum Bark Cuff, our yellow gold-toned Hammered Nu Gold Cuff Bracelet and our rose gold-toned Texturized Anticlastic Copper Bangle Bracelet.
   
   
   
   
2. A Cocktail Ring - Having a flashy cocktail ring in your jewelry box gives you a way to add some glam to your hands if you need to skip a bracelet due to the design of your outfit. You can choose something with a classic look like our 21.5 ct Checkerboard Cut Citrine Sterling Silver Cocktail Ring, or something fanciful and unique like our 18.5 ct Cushion Cut Mystic Quartz Sterling Silver Cocktail Ring.
   
   
   
   

3. A Layering Bangle - A thin bangle bracelet is an essential jewelry piece for creating mixed and matched looks. You can choose a very thin piece like our Thin Chased Copper Cuff Bracelet or something slightly wider like our 5/8-inch Nu Gold Bark Anticlastic Bangle Bracelet.
   
   
   
   

4. A Pair of Classic Hoops - Hoop earrings are a look that truly never goes out of fashion and that can be worn for any occasion. There are many different types of hoop earrings available to suit your personal style. You may want to choose something understated like our Small Chased Copper Hoop Earrings with post backs or something large and dramatic like our Chased Rim Aluminum Hoop Earrings. You can even purchase chandelier hoop styles like our Five Tiered Hammered Nu Gold Chandelier Earrings if you prefer something more dangly.
   
   
   
   

5. An Adjustable Chain - A chain necklace that is designed for wear without a pendant and is adjustable in length is a must for any woman's jewelry collection. When you have a piece that you can adjust for length, you can easily complement any type of neckline. An example of the perfect adjustable chain is our Hammered Copper Necklace, which is 20 inches long and has an open hook that you can attach to any link. You can also purchase our 9-inch Hammered Copper Link Bracelet and use it as an extender.
   
   

The examples we've featured here are just a small sampling of the beautiful pieces found in the John S. Brana Handmade Jewelry collection. Shop our entire range of fine jewelry to find more options to help you round out your jewelry collection with beautiful essentials.

If you're looking for a simple way to finish a short sleeve, sleeveless or three-quarter sleeve look, a bold statement bangle is the perfect choice. A statement bracelet can add a polished touch of sophistication to an outfit and bring interest to an overall ensemble. There are many different bangles in our collection here at John S Brana Handmade Jewelry, and many of these are designed specifically to be statement pieces. Here's a look at five very different styles to inspire you.

1. Brushed Aluminum Bangle Bracelet

If you prefer to keep your jewelry simple but still want to make a statement with your bangle bracelet, the Brushed Aluminum Bangle Bracelet is the perfect choice for you. This piece has a matte finish with a touch of shine around the edges for just a touch of glitz. Not only can you wear this piece on its own as a statement bangle, but you can also layer it with thinner silver-toned bangles to create different looks.  

2. Copper Fold Formed Cuff Bracelet

Looking for a statement bracelet with rustic appeal? The Copper Fold Formed Cuff Bracelet is highly texturized with ribs running vertically and horizontally and a meticulously applied all-over texture. The bracelet shows off the rich color of copper and is a lovely choice if you're looking for a statement bracelet that can easily be worn for casual and more dressy occasions.

3. Aluminum Fold Formed Anticlastic Bangle

The Aluminum Fold Formed Anticlastic Bangle is a wonderful piece for the woman who already owns several bangles. That's because it has a very unique design that will make it unlike anything else in your jewelry box. Instead of a traditional straight round bangle shape, this statement piece is an elegant spiral that is accentuated with a central fold and light texturing along its surface. The anticlastic folding on the sides makes the bracelet very flattering, and each one is one of a kind.

4. Contemporary Bronze Bangle with Butterscotch Amber

Have a penchant for modern pieces? The Contemporary Bronze Bangle with Butterscotch Amber is a surefire look for your contemporary jewelry collection. The bracelet is made out of exquisite bronze precious metal and has a sleek look that complements the gorgeous glow of the butterscotch amber bead. The golden color of the gem will look perfect with neutral, pastel and jewel tones alike, so you can mix and match it with nearly everything in your wardrobe.

5. Copper Fold Formed Bangle with Brazilian Fire Agate

For an earthy piece that never fails to make a statement, choose the Copper Fold Formed Bangle with Brazilian Fire Agate. This gorgeous piece is 2-1/4 inches wide and features anticlastic and a central fold that complements the round shape of the old Brazilian fire agate set into its middle.

View all of our bangles to find the right statement-making piece to add to your jewelry collection. Each bangle bracelet is handmade out of the finest of precious metals and presented in a gift box.

Color Blocking with Jewelry is Back!

The sixties color blocking fashion trend is back in full force, especially in jewelry. All it takes is just a few key pieces that approach the use of bold color in a fresh way. Color blocking is a modern twist on checkered or geometric patterns, using a variety of bright colors placed in striped blocks instead of symmetrical patterns. There is something streamlined, stylish, and highly flattering about color-blocked accessories that give any outfit a fun, unique look.


Replace your simple, modern accessories with color-block jewelry in bright splashes of yellows, reds, and oranges. Gemstone slab beads or flat rectangle designs in a wide variety of natural and dyed hues are a great way to form the color-block look. Women everywhere love mixing unexpected colors in fashionable combinations, which are available in an assortment of brilliant colors. Geometric pendants and dichroic glass beads are also ideal color blocking components.

Fashion Color Blocking Tips

Opt for two colors. Many fashion experts recommend starting with two colors when using the color blocking trend. For those daring individuals, try two contrasting colors that will make your jewelry stand out. For a more subdued look, select colors that complement one another, such as a pink and red or a blue and purple combination. Try a variety of colors until you find combinations that flatter your skin tone.

Discard the prints and patterns. To be a true color blocking look, you must use solid colors without any prints or patterns. These pieces of clothing or jewelry are generally clean cut and simple. There is no need for additional bells and whistles, as the color blocking look often calls for bright colors that get enough attention on their own.

Match with black or nudes. If you decide to try the color blocking look, it’s important that the entire outfit comes together well. Shoes and handbags should be in a solid black or nude hue. At the moment, nude footwear is very fashionable, as well as the perfect addition to a color-block outfit. Black is more suitable for evening wear.

Try color blocking with jewelry. Many think of clothing when they hear about the color blocking trend. This trend is also grabbing the attention of jewelry designers. Gemstones are an ideal way to incorporate color blocking into jewelry, as well as different colored beads. Be sure to coordinate your color-block jewelry with your attire.

Create a balance of color. The color blocking trend is one of both of science and art. Color balancing is an important aspect to ensure that all items have equivalent pizzazz. For example, if you select a pastel shade, the remaining hues should be within the same depth of color. Mixing bold colors and pastels rarely works.

Study and understand the color wheel. If you don’t already have a solid grasp on color, begin studying the color wheel. This is the best way to learn how to properly match different colors, which is important for the color block trend. Complimentary color schemes are the easiest to follow, as they are on the opposite sides. This includes green and red and blue and yellow. The contrast makes this trend really stand out.

Consider size and color. Most people only look at the color of the garment and not the size. When it comes to color blocking, the size is an important aspect to consider. Large chunks of bright color can add volume if you have a small frame. If you are a petite woman, go for smaller blocks of bright color that are more in proportion to your small size. Ensure that the lines made by the blocks of color are crisp and neat.

Color blocking is a popular way to wear more than one bright color at a time. Many women steer clear of this trend, as they are afraid that it won’t be flattering on their body. For those women who are afraid to jump into the pool of color blocking, warm up to this trend by wearing color blocking jewelry. These bright colors are sure to compliment your skin tone and make your outfits appear even more fashion-forward.

Click Here to Read "Nu-Gold Jewelry - An Economical Alternative to Karat Gold Jewelry"

Whether you care or not, you make an impression every time you bump into someone different or see an old acquaintance. Research shows that in the first 30 seconds, an attitude is formed based upon your appearance. Your jewelry and what it brings to light about your character is part of that consciousness. If you want to project a certain vision, either individually or professionally, using your jewelry is a very useful way to do it. Here are some helpful pointers to get you started:

 

Stand Out from the Crowd Treat yourself to a truely amazing one-of-a-kind piece of custom made jewelry. For instance, a custom piece of hand made jewelry designed by an artiste will really make you stand out. With a unique piece of art jewelry, you will be astonished at how often you get compliments and stand out from the rest of the crowd. Select the right design to reflect your personality. Different designs enhance certain personalities. Dazzlingly colored designs usually evoke a enjoyable, overenthusiastic, warm personality; Modern designed jewelry usually evokes an artsy personality; Ethnic jewelry usually evokes a bohemian or free spirit personality.

 

Pull Together Colors  The easiest way to be sure to color synchronize your outfits is to buy matching jewelry sets whenever possible or financially feasible. This ensures you will always have something to match your outfit. A synchronized outfit communicates a well prepared, meticulous, and professional person with great taste and a flair for fashion. Having a blend of nicely harmonized colors does not mean that your jewelry has to be the same color as your outfit, but it does have to be part of a harmonized set of colors that blend nicely together.

Never thought jewelry was that essential? Statement jewelry is a part of you that guides your hidden style, your beliefs, actions, yearnings, place in life, line of work and status. It makes you feel good about yourself when you marvel at it in the mirror. Whenever you look at your one-of-a-kind jewelry, it gives you warmth inside when you recall where you acquired it or why you have it. Handcrafted designer jewelry makes a affirmative statement about you every time you wear it, and whenever you recieve or buy something new, it is a remembrance of that event in your life.