Jewelry

Power Dressing: The Jewellery Edition

By Amy Palmer
Jewellery can and should make a powerful impression. Professionals often avoid statement pieces at the workplace for fear that such luxury may be viewed as an ostentatious display and perhaps give the wrong impression. But done right, eye-catching jewellery can exude authority and confidence.

T he concept of power dressing was born in the early 1980s, during the heyday of big shoulder pads and boxy suits to deemphasize femininity. Typically the style was accompanied by jewellery that was discreet, if at all. Even in the most conservative environments today, dress codes have become less rigid. The cut and colour of the suit might be sober and grey, but that doesn’t mean the jewellery has to be. From the upcoming Jewels Online sale, these totemic pieces exert strength, polish, and individuality.

1. Pair of mother-of-pearl cufflinks, 'Alhambra', Van Cleef & Arpels. Estimate $12,000-28,000

While cufflinks have historically been associated with men, they've actually been worn by women since the 1920s. Fashion designer and brilliant businesswoman Coco Chanel was herself a cufflink aficionado. This beautiful mother-of-pearl design exudes a feminine and suave elegance.

2. Gold and emerald ring, 'Panthère', Cartier. Estimate $16,000-32,000

Cartier describes its iconic Panthére design as "predatory and elegant," a perfect totem to inspire confidence. From the classic collection, this gold and emerald ring features a sleek feline ready to pounce. Beautiful and dangerous, the panther is the ultimate symbol of power.

3. Diamond brooch, Sterlé. Estimate $38,000-50,000

Power doesn’t have to be loud. The subtlety of this stunning diamond brooch adds a touch of softness to any strong ensemble. Wear it on your lapel for an instant fix of timeless elegance.

4. Diamond Ring. Estimate $800,000-1,000,000

The diamond ring might be associated with wedding engagements and the promise of marriage. But who says you can’t buy diamonds for yourself? A diamond ring is an elegant way to mark a milestone. It is the ultimate power move, and a beautiful right-handed ring like this will be a great way to celebrate launching your business or becoming a managing director.

5. Cultured pearl necklace, Buccellati. Estimate $32,000-48,000

Pearls are a classic way to complete the look of a crisp white shirt or sheath dress. This necklace by Buccellati is an ever-stylish statement piece that is both luxurious and commanding.

6. Ruby and diamond bracelet-watch, 'Shutter', Van Cleef & Arpels. Estimate $70,000-85,000

This piece by Van Cleef & Arpels strikes the perfect balance between beauty and function. Not only is it a bold yet elegant bracelet, it also has a timepiece, making it an ideal power accessory.

7. Art Deco Sapphire and Diamond Bar Brooch, Cartier. Estimate $45,000-60,000

Brooches have made an impressive comeback in recent years, featuring on runways for Chanel, Armani and Alexander McQueen. This unisex piece can be used to add a personal touch to an everyday work look, whether worn on the lapel, the neckline, the collar or any other way the imagination allows.

8. Gold cigarette case, Van Cleef & Arpels. Estimate $24,000-40,000

Evoking a bygone era but modern in its simplicity, this elegant Van Cleef & Arpels cigarette case would make a smart business card holder.

9. Pair of gold cufflinks, Buccellati; and pair of cufflinks, Cartier. Estimate $12,000-24,000

These cufflinks bring a touch of personality to any ensemble. Use them the traditional way to draw some attention to your cuffs, or embellish your collar or buttons.

Stay informed with Sotheby’s top stories, videos, events & news.

Receive the best from Sotheby’s delivered to your inbox.

By subscribing you are agreeing to Sotheby’s Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe from Sotheby’s emails at any time by clicking the “Manage your Subscriptions” link in any of your emails.

More from Sotheby's