Territory rig
THE JEWELS IN YOUR CROWN Well-chosen statement pieces of jewellery — that don’t have to cost the earth — can complete your look beautifully
CLEOPATRA adorned herself in jewellery of gold encrusted with semiprecious stones including topaz and amethyst. The last pharaoh was also said to be a fan of pearls, detailing her shoes, clothing, jewellery and even her hair with the precious product of the sea.
The trend continued with actress Elizabeth Taylor, who played the glamorous Cleopatra in the award-winning film of the same name.
Of course, Liz, who went on to become Mrs Richard Burton, was the star of the jewellery box too, her elegant eye-catching and extravagant collection has since gone on to be displayed in museums and galleries across the world.
Even decades on, Elizabeth Taylor-style jewellery is a popular reference for designers and stylists looking to create a luxe look.
Australian labels Samantha Wills (stocked at Splash) and Amber Sceats (find it at Messa Living) are leading the charge on mid-priced glamour as celebrity designed labels, like House of Harlow 1960 by Nicole Richie (stocked at Stomp Shoes) adorn the fingers, necklines and earlobes of trend-loving bowerbirds.
Bejewelled bohemian luxury is also popular in Alice Springs, where Mixed Lollies boutique stocks Australian KiiK Luxe and the golden range by Reliquia too.
Despite the at times minimalist colour palette of present fashion trends – including 50 shades of black, grey and white – the statement necklace, oversized earring and costume cocktail ring are must haves.
Fashionistas can achieve a six-figure inspired look without the financial investment (and need for a security guard and matching bank vault for storage) by turning their eye to chain stores, independent designers and even market stalls — and the Territory has plenty of those.
The sparkle of a stone, be it real or ‘inspired’, can also be an opportunity to try a new accessory (or a new take on an old trend), such as bedazzled hair combs, brooches or hair pins.
Red-carpet hairstylists have also predicted hair gems will add to the accessory line up, in a much more minimalist way to their 1990s counterparts, think #SubtleStyle