Hot rocks

WHEN THE TEMPERATURE RISES, THE TYPE OF JEWELLERY YOU WEAR SHOULD REFLECT THE DIFFERENT LIGHT AND COMPLEMENT THE WAY YOU DRESS.

BY Gail Williams

WHEN SUBI SIZZLES, it’s all about floaty, silk kaftans, espadrilles, widelegged linen palazzo pants and little satin camisoles.

Is it? Well, it is if you take a seat on the Bar Amelie deck, where your ringside seat comes with a passing parade of stylish fashion mavens with the breeze in their hair and a confident purpose in their stride. But the question being asked by many of those beautiful things – especially those with attention to intricate detail – is, “what jewellery do I wear with my carefully coordinated outfit?”

Fine gold necklaces to reference the sunshine? A wisp of silver on the wrist to echo a full March moon? Pale sapphire rings to match the ocean on a still early autumn morn?

It might sound like a first world problem, but it’s called “being au fait with fashion-forward jewellery trends”. In Subi, we have not seen the most extreme examples – layered body chains, heavy chokers, mismatching earrings and ring stacking – courtesy of fashion mag Bazaar. But the good news for those pretty things striding down Rokeby Road is that they’re in just the right place.

Rokeby Road is packed full of jewellery shops and enough expert staff to answer every fashion query.

Justin Linney Creative Director, Linneys

37 Rokeby Road, Subiaco

Ph: (08) 9382 4077

When Justin Linney speaks, people listen. So listen very carefully when he says: “The beauty of jewellery is that it’s not seasonal; it’s a purchase that lasts a lifetime and complements the look you style it with, things that will suit summer outfits and your look, for example, long drop earrings if you are having your hair up.”

But he does admit there has been a trend this summer for yellow gold chains and “floating” pearls or diamonds.

He adds that people tend to wear less colourful clothing in winter, but it doesn’t mean your jewellery still can’t be colourful.

He nominates a sublime pair of Underwater Dreaming earrings at $2,700 as the perfect summer piece.

“They evoke feelings of summer with the yellow from the gold representing sunlight, the texturing of the gold like the coral snorkelling at Rottnest Island in summer and the pearls symbolic of the ocean.”

Wendy Page

Co-owner Thomas Meihofer

Jewellery Design, 171 Rokeby Road, Subiaco

Ph: 9388 6288

According to Wendy, gemstones in cooler tones of blue and green – on chains in any shade of gold – have been this summer’s necklace trend. “While white gold has been an enduring classic, yellow gold has made a resurgence and rose gold is a lovely option for coloured gemstones,” says Wendy.

“Aquamarine, teal-blue sapphire and tourmaline have been on trend, and opals have also made a comeback. Pastel pink sapphire and morganite have been another popular choice for the season.”

Sabrina Wong

Owner, Japanese Flea Market Shop 29/17-31 Rokeby Road, Subiaco

Ph: 0433 940 608

You can always rely on Sabrina Wong to sift through fashion speak. Her Japanese-inspired exotic little den of spiritually-calming trinkets and fashion pieces actually defies any trend. Individuality is what she is all about, from her personally designed and made “kimogans” to her sari silk twine necklaces and mismatched earrings.

There is nothing formulaic about any of the exquisite pieces, or her customers. But, when pressed, she offers advice for those wondering what pieces will get them through summer.

“I would definitely veer away from heavy jewellery,” she says. ‘With thin fabrics such as silk and linen, you need light pieces like crystals on a white sari twine or a white cubic zirconia, moonstone or semi precious gems.”

Layering several silver necklaces of different lengths is also popular. And Sabrina loves the mismatched earring combo popular with both men and women.

“The idea is to wear a long dangly earring in one ear and a stud in the other,” says Sabrina.

“I have had a lot of women come in with their best friends, and they will buy two pairs of different earrings and swap them around. It makes them feel really connected with each other and makes the idea of jewellery very sacred.”

Cheryl Burton

Owner, Kul Kul, Shop A/151 Rokeby Road, Subiaco

Ph: (08) 9388 7900

When Cheryl Burton tells you chokers and princess-length necklaces with small delicate pendants are all the rage at the moment, you tend to believe her. The owner of Kul Kul is the go-to person for a firm cult following of women of all ages as to how best to accessorise an outfit.

She is always happy to add her own quirky touch to the latest trends.

“Last year saw brooches popular again in winter, featuring everything from quirky monkeys to exquisite handmade, embroidered pieces.”

For late summer/early autumn, simplicity is the key.

“Sunshine in summer draws us to the water – saltwater at the beach and chlorine in the pool, so jewellery should be able to cope with these outdoor activities. Leave your best bling at home and opt for something simple. But whatever you choose, make sure it fits you perfectly if it’s a ring, and your earrings should have a secure back (if it’s a stud). How many people lose jewellery at the beach!”

She also says natural stones should complement skin tones. The birthstones for summer are blue topaz, garnet and amethyst and they are all popular.

Cheryl's Najo Jewellery piece from the Awaken collection is the perfect example of a simple, elegant piece.

“What’s perfect about it, you can wear it in all seasons, with a summer dress or jeans and a shirt, it's always going to look this good,” says Cheryl.

Louis Youd

Client Relations, Allure South Sea Pearls, 316 Rokeby Road, Subiaco Ph: (08) 9388 3131

The last word goes to Louis Youd, who has all the glistening answers for anyone still unsure about how to jewel up.

What is the summer trend this year for necklaces?

South Sea Keshi pearl necklaces have been quite popular amongst our clients this season. Their irregular shape makes each pearl as unique and individual as the wearer.

Is there a guide to what to wear in winter or summer?

There are no firm rules, particularly when it comes to the classic pearl styles you will find at Allure South Sea Pearls. Our timeless pieces are designed to be worn and adored season after season. Often, it’s the little things like updating your go-to pearl earrings or changing the chain length of your favourite pearl pendant that will keep things feeling fresh as the seasons change.

What should you look for in summer pieces?

Firstly, it’s important to select styles you know you can mix and match. Many of our clients like to layer their jewellery in summer, to elevate more casual clothing. As such, it’s important any new purchases work back with your favourite pieces of jewellery. Secondly, it is important to ensure you select pieces that complement your skin tone. Allure’s expert team delivers a personalised service to ensure they can find the perfect pearl, and piece, to suit every client. Is there a specific stone that suits summer more than winter?

While pearls are perfect for all seasons, there are two stones that really stand out to me during the summer months: Sky Blue Topaz and Lapis Lazuli. Both stones resemble the spectacular Western Australian skyline and pristine ocean. They look remarkable on their own, or when complemented with a lustrous South Sea pearl.

What Allure piece is perfect for warmer weather and why?

The Beaded Pearl Bangle is set in 18-carat gold and contains a titanium core which gives it strength and flexibility. It is the perfect piece to elevate your everyday style and can also be layered with other South Sea pearl pieces for special occasions.