Glam Slam: Throw Your Own Tres Chic Arm Party

A woman and her daughter stopped me the other day to tell me they loved all my “arm candy,” as she called it.

In general, I love to wear lots of cuffs and bracelets, but even I admit it was a very good day… everything (except for my watch) was Hermes. Don’t be a hater. .I’m on a budget as much as the next person — this was the result of years and years of collecting.

Want to rock the arm party yourself? Here are my five easy tips for creating a stylish arm candy collection.

GO FOR CLASSICS

Timeless pieces, like an Hermes cuff or bangle, or anything from Chanel will serve you well. They may cost a lot, but you will have them for years to come and are worth the splurge. Save your money when it comes to the trendy stuff – cheapies will do just fine.

MIX YOUR METALS

Don’t be afraid to mix up your metals. My watch is black and silver- the hardware on all the other pieces is gold. I usually add a couple of other silver pieces in as well, but I was lazy that day! I also have a set of bangles-one silver, one gold, one bronze and one rose gold – that I have in high rotation. So easy! You don’t need a set that matches though- anything in your jewelry drawer should work just as easily, so go for it and rock several types of metal!

MIX YOUR TEXTURES

I love to experiment with textures. I will mix up classic, elegant enamel bangles with more casual friendship bracelets and/or leather cuffs or bands. Somehow it all just works.

GO FOR A BOHO VIBE

I like silver pieces for a more earthy look. Do some chains and bangles and then add some leather pieces. Throw in some turquoise for a pop of color. Easy, breezy and nothing says Summer to me more than a relaxed, bohemian look that works everywhere from picnics to the beach to cocktails by the pool.

GO FOR COLOR

My “Hermes” look is pretty monochromatic and subdued…but I love to throw a colorful arm party too! Neons are still really in and brights are fun to add to basic blacks and other neutral colors. It’s summer, so have fun and go crazy!

— Ryan Patterson