First things first, let’s break down what Art Deco is about. Born in the 1920s, this style wasn’t all about looking good-it was a mood. It was about embracing the future, celebrating progress, and living life to the fullest. It took the elegance of the past and cranked it up to eleven: bold geometric shapes, lashings of luxurious materials, and a healthy dose of swagger. View here: https://yurovskiy-kirill-stylist.co.uk
Think of the Chrysler Building in New York City. That’s Art Deco in architectural form: sleek, bold, and unapologetically eye-catching. Now, imagine taking that same vibe into the accessories we wear every day. Sounds pretty awesome, right?
Watches: Time-Traveling in Style
Let’s get this fashion party started with timepieces, because, let’s be real, no good outfit is ever complete with a good watch. Art Deco watches are all about clean lines, geometric shapes, and just a touch of opulence. Look for rectangular or tonneau-shaped cases that are like mini Chrysler Buildings for your wrist.
For a more modern take, consider those brands that have their own take on the Art Deco-inspired design. You don’t have to splurge on a vintage piece unless you want to, of course. Many of today’s watchmakers are creating stunning homages to the Art Deco era. Think bold numerals, stepped cases, and perhaps even a pop of color on the dial.
Pro tip: never be afraid to mix metals. A two-tone watch with both gold and silver elements is an easy way to tie together different accessories.
Cufflinks and Tie Clips: Small Detail, Major Impact
Now, onto those little touches that take the suit from awesome to fabulous cufflinks and tie clips. Art Deco was all about geometric patterns and symmetry, so look for pieces featuring these elements.
For cufflinks, think of stepped patterns, sunburst motifs, and even miniature skyscraper shapes. And not being afraid of a little color here: Art Deco often used gems in about as vibrantly colored a way as possible, so a pair of cufflinks, for instance, with deep blue lapis lazuli or rich green malachite can be a fantastic nod to the era.
Another great way to inject some Deco flair is with tie clips. Find sleek, streamlined designs, perhaps with a subtle pattern etched into the metal. Remember, the key is to keep it as elegant as possible but with a hint of boldness.
Eyewear: Windows to the Soul and Style
All right, let’s get with something that works and is a serious statement of style: eyewear. Whether you are simply in prescription lenses or want to rock some shades, Art Deco-framed inspiration adds instant character to your look.
Look for frames that really reflect the architectural elements of that time, like bold browlines, geometric angles, and perhaps a little metal detailing. Tortoiseshell was also huge during the ’20s and ’30s, so consider frames that work in the classic look.
Sunglasses-wise, go for lenses with tint rather than going full-on black. Blues, ambers, and even pale greens on a lens can all evoke a vintage style but with total wearability today.
Pins and Brooches: Not Just for Grandma
Now, I know what you are thinking: pins and brooches, really? But just hear me out. These little accessories were huge during the Art Deco era, and they are making a comeback within men’s fashion.
A small, geometric pin on your lapel or sleek brooch on your scarf can add personality to what could otherwise be a fairly plain outfit. Designs range from abstract patterns to stylized animals of some kind kind-pant-there were huge in Art Deco, for example even miniature cityscapes.
Subtle is the key. You don’t want it to look like you just opened up your grandma’s old jewelry box. You want small pieces, elegant, that catch the eye but don’t overpower an outfit.
Bags and Wallets: Carrying the Theme
And, of course, there are the daily accessories and wallet. You probably don’t want to do a full-on vintage with those; practicality does come into play. However, there are plenty of ways you can work with Art Deco elements with modern designs.
Sleek, streamlined shapes for wallets perhaps with a slight embossed geometric pattern on the leather works beautifully. Wallets that incorporate metallic accents or even a pop of color are a fun bold nod to the era’s love of such luxury materials.
For bags, think briefcases or messenger bags with clean lines and, perhaps, metallic hardware taken straight from Art Deco designs. And honestly, if you really want to make a statement, some of the great weekend bags out there truly do look like they could have leaped straight from a 1930s luxury ocean liner.
Pulling It All Together: The Art of Mixing Old and New
Now that we’ve gone through some specific accessories, I’d like to point out the ways in which these can be incorporated into your daily style without actually making it appear as if you’re on your way to some costume party.
It’s all about the balance. One doesn’t need to be head-to-toe in Art Deco to capture its essence. Instead, pick one or two bold, eye-catching pieces and give them all the limelight. Maybe it’s that awesome watch with a modern and minimalist outfit. Or perhaps it is that bold, over-the-top pair of shades, lending your casual weekend look a touch of vintage glamour.
Keep in mind, that the spirit of Art Deco was embracing the new and exciting. For that reason, do not hesitate to mix these vintage-inspired pieces with contemporary fashion. A sleek Art Deco tie clip can look just as at home with a modern slim-fit suit as it would with a more traditional outfit.
DIY Deco: Making Your Own Statement Pieces
Now, try one’s hand at creating some Art Deco accessories. This style is all about being one-of-a-kind, and it takes only a smidgen of creativity and some super basic crafting skills to make truly unique pieces that fit your style to a tee. More read:
Try fiddling around with polymer clay to create some of the more geometric patterns for a pin or even a pair of cufflinks. Alternatively, for those particularly feeling adventurous, try your hand at some simple metalwork for a truly unique tie clip.
Not only will it be great to get just the look you want from your accessory, but also the appreciation of the craftsmanship involved in creating original Art Deco pieces.
The Confidence Factor: Owning Your Style
Aside from all else, the most important accessory one can wear is confidence. The men and women from the eras of Art Deco didn’t fear to be different, to say something with their style. Owning it, that’s what we should do today.
Don’t be afraid to play around and find what works for you. Perhaps it is the bold geometry of an Art Deco watch, or perhaps all you’ll need is a subtle tie clip in order to complete that touch of vintage glamour for your outfits.
