With the Cannes Festival in full swing, celebs resplendent in red carpet finery seem to be everywhere. Bold ball gowns and couture confections adorn elite entertainers from around the world. Despite a few hiccups (we’re thinking of the 1 million dollar Chopard jewelry theft which certainly cast a pall on the proceedings as the Swiss jewelry brand is a co-sponsor of the Cannes event and the later theft of a 2 million euro necklace from De Grisogono), luscious looks and, more importantly, luxurious jewels are taking center stage at this famed French film festival. From Cara Delevingne showing up drenched in diamonds by Chopard to Jessica Chastain attending the “Cleopatra” screening in a bold Bvlgari blue sapphire (previously owned by the inimitable Elizabeth Taylor) and Sharon Stone bringing massive sparkle in a multi-strand emerald and diamond swagged necklace by Geneva-based brand De Grisogono, this year’s Cannes red carpet has been a jewelry-lover’s most dazzling dream.
Still, no matter what the event is – the Academy Awards, Emmy’s, Grammy’s or Cannes – there’s a few perennial jewelry styles that are permanently on the guest list. Here’s four of our favorite ways to bring out the bling for red carpet chic:
The Arm Candy
Art Deco Diamond Bracelet
A bracelet is a perfect way to accessorize any style of dress. It won’t compete with elaborate necklines, patterns or skirts yet will still draw attention to the beautiful bags and clutches that often provide the finishing touch on red carpet looks. Classic diamond bracelets are always a hit – stacked or worn as stand-alone pieces, these fiery designs channel old Hollywood glamour.
Moonstone and Diamond Bracelet
Of course, the red carpet can be a perfect venue for showing off a more daring style. We adore this incredible, statement-making moonstone and diamond bracelet. The non-stop sparkle of diamonds is an elegant and stunning contrast to the dreamy flowers formed of ethereal cabochon moonstones.
The Bling Ring
Sapphire and Diamond Ring
Taking a cue from Sofia Coppola’s Cannes offering, the stars came out with fabulously festooned fingers. A major ring is a comfortably wearable way to up the flash factor. Big diamonds or big colored gems either accent or add contrast to couture gowns – without overpowering the designer duds.
Elizabeth Gage Star Sapphire Ring
While platinum and white gold are perpetually popular for high end events, a colorful collection of gemstones in bright yellow gold can add an artsy flair to an otherwise staid affair.
The Dazzling Dangle
Impressive Diamond Earrings
In recent years, we’ve seen a trend in celebrities wearing either an impressive necklace or an important set of earrings. Like Angelina Jolie’s famous emerald earrings, wearing major sparkle or color at the ear allows these beautiful jewels to take the spotlight without competing with a necklace. Large, dangling earrings that are either bedecked in diamonds or precious gems bring focus to the face and create a memorable impression.
Black and Green Opal and Diamond Earrings
If basic black is your go-to gala wear, a pair of bold and colorful earrings will enliven your look without being gaudy or overdone.
The Deluxe Decolletage
Diamond Bow Necklace
For style that strikes a fabulous chord, a great necklace is essential. Who can forget the brilliant back necklaces worn by Oscar winners Jennifer Lawrence and Anne Hathaway, or the multi-strand De Grisogono diamond and emerald confection Sharon Stone was spotted in at Cannes?
While many celebs opt for classic diamonds (a trend which rarely goes wrong on the red carpet) by important designers such as Cartier, Tiffany or Harry Winston, a bolt of color can come off as an exotic Bohemian contrast to decorous diamonds.
The red carpet is the ideal place to bring out the big guns – at least with your mega jewelry. Get inspired by the celebrity styles of Cannes and make a statement that truly sparkles.
