Laws of Couture: Bling It On With Cocktail Rings

Wednesday, June 19

Bling It On With Cocktail Rings

Michael Kors

Call them fashion's great game changers: those extravagant and extra-large cocktail rings - lots of them on both hands - that are making the party scene. These rings know how to have fun. After all, they're not called a cocktail for nothing. The size of dominoes and ping-pong balls, these colossal creations are boastfully blinged-out taking any look from plain to pizazz simply by adding a touch of glamour. They're also a spotlight stealer, calling attention to one's hands (and manicure) and are part of fashion's ongoing obsession with the retro luxury trend. Whether the gemstones are real or faux, super-size rings are the perfect accessory for your favorite little black dress as you enjoy a martini or hold your evening clutch.

Cocktail rings add personality and drama to any look. Here are 10 tips for wearing them.

1. Wear several, but always more on one hand than the other.

2. Keep the rings all in the family, but it's also fine to mix them up.

3. Gold or sterling silver rings, because of their neutral tones, go with everything.

4. Colorful gemstones, precious or semi-precious, add a luxe look to your outfit.

5. Gigantic geometric shapes in metals and chunky crystals are bold and fabulous.

6. Huge floral designs in fabric, leather and metal are daring and feminine.

7. Art deco or estate cocktail rings add glamour because of their lavish avant-garde embellishments.

8. Novelty rings with animal motifs - bird, giraffe, starfish, panther - add fun and personality.

9. Accessorize with necklaces that sit at the base of the neck and with long and dramatic earrings.

10. Rings bring attention to your hands, so maintain your manicure and go for glittered polish during the holidays.

Straight up or with ice these cocktail rings pack a wallop. I love how chunky stones dazzle in gorgeously mismatched pairs-all the better to knock you out. Take a peek below for small treasures that make big impressions.