This month's must-have accessory
If you've been keeping a careful eye on the catwalks and fashion magazines, you could be forgiven for thinking this summer's must-have accessories were bangles, bangles and more bangles. However, for a more pretty, feminine - and timeless - jewellery alternative, keep an eye out for the latest charms.
In fact, you won't have to look too hard, because charms are everywhere at the moment, and in many different guises. There are cute bracelets in traditional silver or fun, bright colours; one-off charms worn as necklaces; clusters of two or three charms, which can be worn in lots of ways; or even matching necklace and bracelet sets for those who want to be as charmed as possible.
Our favourites? For a touch of super-girlie fun, we love Pacha's Homespun bracelet (£20) and necklace (£25), available from www.asos.com. They're dripping with brightly coloured buttons, musical notes, ladybirds and cherries.
We also adore Servane Gaxotte's doll pendants: each tiny charm comes in a different outfit. There's the Angel Bride Doll with her white tulle skirt and Swarovski crystal handbag, for example - or the White Doll who carries a golden star. They're very cute - but at £139 each, we can only dream about owning one in every style. Available from www.bluevelvetboutique.com.
And while we're talking about slightly more hefty price tags, Icon's Charm Bracelet (£375; www.icecool.co.uk) offers a glamorous twist on tradition with four white gold charms - a circle, cross, heart and moon - decorated with diamonds. If you've got a special birthday coming up, this could be one to put on your present list.
But for a pretty, everyday look, check out Miglio's brand new Rainforest Collection - which features charm-clad necklaces (from £43.95) and matching bracelets (from £39.95). The stunning silver bracelet, for instance, is dripping with dragonflies, mother of pearl, Swarovski crystal and white glass pearls. Available from www.miglio.co.uk.
And finally, why not celebrate summer by buying a quirky deckchair charm by top jewellery designer Jeremy Hoye (£40; www.jeremy-hoye.co.uk)? Wear it on a plain silver chain around your neck as a reminder to sit back, relax and enjoy the sunshine. How utterly charming!
