As casual days become a fixture at work, women are able to relax and dress more expressively. But when it comes to jewellery for the office, the cognoscenti recommend sticking to classic pieces. 'If possible, invest in more precious jewellery and stay away from pieces that appear too flashy,' says Bridget King, jewellery designer and founder of label Brigetta. 'If you're not sure if it's appropriate for work, then it's probably not.' Rebecca Ip, managing director at Tiffany & Co in Hong Kong and Macau, says timeless, versatile designs work well. 'It's important that jewellery can go from day to night,' she says. As a starting point, King suggests classic diamond studs. If you're on a budget, simple pearl earrings may be the answer. White is timeless, but black studs are more unusual and can also be worn in the evening. For the neck, she suggests avoiding pieces that are too chunky or bold. A thin chain with design details or a pendant works well with a button-down shirt or suit jacket. Tiffany & Co's Diamonds by the Yard collection by Elsa Peretti features thin gold chains dotted with small diamonds, and Georg Jensen's Fusion collection includes an unusually shaped pendant on a white gold chain. For sterling silver designs, check out jewellers such as Folli Follie or Links of London. Eve Roth Lindsay of Savvy Style, Colour Me Beautiful HK says a nice ring is vital, but should be kept simple. Avoid oversized cocktail rings and go for styles with a single, smaller stone. Semi-precious stones are a stylish alternative to diamonds and are best in neutral tones such as grey, light yellow and brown, and stones like smoky quartz, citrine and topaz. Tayma Fine jewellery stocks a full range of semi-precious jewellery, and pieces by younger designers such as Citrine by the Stones are available at Lane Crawford. If rings don't suit, consider a bracelet such as the Alea by Hermes, which features the brand's signature link design. White and yellow gold always work, and rose gold adds a modern touch. 'Be careful of gold-plated jewellery as it will tarnish,' says Lindsay. 'You're better off buying one good quality item and wearing it every day rather than a tired looking piece.' On casual days women should nevertheless avoid anything that makes too much of a statement. 'Hoop earrings that are slightly larger still give you that pulled-together feel,' says King. 'Layered necklaces can accent a casual outfit, as can gold or silver cuffs. But don't over-accessorise as it can make you appear less professional.' Lindsay says: 'Women should always count to five before they leave the house: one - earrings; two - necklace; three - watch; and four and five - a ring on each hand.' Shopping List Tiffany & Co The Landmark, Central, tel: 2845 9853 Georg Jensen Prince's Building, Central, tel: 2868 0707 Hermes The Galleria, Central, tel: 2525 5900 Lane Crawford IFC Mall, Central, tel: 2118 3388 Tayma Fine Jewellery Prince's Building, tel: 2525 5280 Folli Follie Pedder Street, Central, tel: 2523 4210 Links of London Prince's Building, tel: 2525 1598
