Cathryn Wills, the fabulously glamorous managing and creative director of the international MIMCO brand, talks accessories trends, jewellery must-haves and new-season inspiration. Get ready to sparkle!
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What are the must-get bracelet trends for Autumn/Winter 2016?
Bold, rigid bangles make a strong, clean 70’s statement and we love our ‘Baba Bangle Stack’ which is a nod to one of our muses for the season, the Australian, Paris-based stylist Catherine Baba. Pile bangles and bracelets on both wrists to make a statement or wear them individually for a casual but chic off duty look. For a finer look, our ‘Unlocked’ range draws inspiration from the key motif of the season – the key to The Montage club.
R499What are the key earring trends to pick up on for Autumn/Winter 2016?
Very bold styles like the ‘Saunter Drop Ear’ and the ‘She’s a Mod Drop Ear’ earrings are great with a higher neckline. The trend for ear cuffs and the look of ‘90s-inspired multiple piercings are also still going strong.
Gold tassel necklace
R699Which are the best neckpieces to have right now?
The ‘90s-inspired choker is a major trend and you can layer yours with other necklaces if you want to make even more of a statement. Fine pieces are another big direction – they look great with a plunging neckline or over a high neck. Complement these styles with layered rings and bracelets but keep your earring simple.
R1 299Which three shoes styles will be great this Autumn/Winter – and beyond?
Boots – and over-the-knee boots in particular – are great for grounding the season’s romantic dresses and floral prints. The ‘Moonlight Over the Knee Boot’ is one of my favourites. And the ’70 trend continues, which means a pair of platform heels to go with cropped, flared trousers or ultra-long flares. Finally, the mid-height, Chelsea styling of our ‘Studio Boot’ in cognac, snake-embossed leather is great with classic denims, dresses and skirts. I love, love, love this one!
R699What are the major DO’s to know when buying accessories?
DO have a few special statement pieces that you treasure. Heirloom pieces are great, but it’s fun to keep adding to your collection and costume jewellery is an affordable way to do this.
DO wear statement pieces with your casual look – unexpected combinations are the sign of true style.
DO personalise your jewellery with engraving, such as your initials or a special date.
DO express yourself — experiment with style and stand out from the crowd!
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What are the major DON’Ts for accessories?
There are no major DON’Ts for accessories, provided you wear them with confidence, but you might want to think about the proportions of what you choose: for example, if you’re going for an extravagant neckpiece, opt for a more subtle earring.
R299How should we care for our costume jewellery pieces so that it lasts for years to come?
Follow these rules to keep your jewellery in great condition:
Avoid contact with beauty products such as body lotions or perfumes as these can react with the metals and cause tarnishing.
Store your jewellery in cloth bags as this helps to ensure that the chains don’t get tangled, plus you can use the bag to polish up brass and stones if needed.
Clean sterling silver, like our MIMPrecious collection, with a special sterling silver cloth to prevent tarnishing and keep it sparkling.
Rotate the wear of your costume jewellery and don’t beat it up! Costume jewellery is designed to bring glamour and a mood boost into your life – it’s not for washing up or cleaning the house!
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