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Ba Da Bling!

Written by Jane Stabler   
Bling bling or as my mum adorably says “bing, bing” is everywhere, whether you are totally hip, or not quite that cool, the bling trend will not have gone unnoticed. Ba da bling, ba da boom! Bling has hit the big time. No longer just a fashion trend for hip-hop royalty, bling is infiltrating the wardrobes of fashionistas everywhere as the metallic trend takes hold, and brings back memories of Studio 54.

Those of us with a bit of a love of hip-hop know that the word bling originally referred to the ostentatious jewelry worn by the heroes of the music genre to showcase their success in the most material of ways. (Hmm…sound like it could somehow relate to high fashion?) Also sometimes called ice, maybe the word bling took off because it has less nasty connotations, plus it’s a lot more fun to say, but it’s a phrase that has been coined by even the incredibly un-funky amongst us, something which probably makes the likes of Ezy E turn in his grave.

Bling now decorates more than the homies, it can be seen in the likes of Guess watches and even jewel legends Swarovski have gotten into the groove and brought out bling inspired handbags. Possibly the most common reference to bling now relates to engagement rings – the question “have you seen Sally’s ring?” has transformed to “have you see Sally’s bling?”. And with Australian jewelry design legend De Beers recently opening a boutique on Rodeo Drive, the bling phenomenon doesn’t look like its slowing down at all. In fact, bling is making its way to the masses. And with Christmas just around the corner, it’s easy to get caught up in the festive spirit and want to shine just a little more than usual.

Unless you are very brave, or have amazingly, fabulously glowing skin, going all out in metallics is possibly a fairly unwise move. Metallics tend to end up as the centre of attention, so a well chosen standout metallic item teamed with a less outrageous outfit is often the best choice. Whether it be metallic shoes, a bag, or a belt, you can guarantee it will stand out, and you don’t want to overdo it. Here at AskBronny, we recommend you are remembered at your Christmas parties as looking fabulous, not looking like the turkey. Here are a few easy ways that AskBronny have come up with to make sure you look fab, and not like you should be put in the oven.

It’s easy to wear bling when it comes to jewelry. Which girl doesn’t want a rock on her finger that almost breaks her arm? And dripping with diamonds in the neck area is guaranteed to make you look a million bucks, even if they are really cubic zirconias. The metallic fashions however are a different story. Bling can be a difficult thing to do, and the key to pulling off the bling bling is to know your thing thing. (sorry, I couldn’t resist.) But seriously, cashing in on the bling fashion trend is all about knowing your limits and knowing how far you can push the metallics. Your best bud might look fab in a slinky silver dress, but you may just look like a flounder. Some skin tones just don’t work, so you need to involve the shinies in another, less overt way.

Hints of metallic – instead of going over the top, try wearing something metallic underneath a little cardigan or layered singlets. This will give admirers a glimpse of bling every now and again without blinding unsuspecting member of the general public.

Bling bling accessories – we already touched on this. Jewelry is easy, so are watches. Police and D&G know exactly how to work the bling into an everyday necessity and this gives you the option of shimmering all day every day. Or you can don a fabulously shiny handbag without going overboard. Big shiny belts are also a simple, and relatively inexpensive, way to light up a room.

Make-up bling – although a shiny face is usually to be avoided at all costs, shiny make-up is a whole other story. Bring out your inner bling with cosmetics that will make your face light up. Bronzers are an easy way to go, and awesome for summer skin without the hassle of tanning. Mac does an awesome bronzer that will add a little shimmer as you strut your stuff. Just be mindful that if you really are white to the point of being see-through, apply bronzers in moderation so you don’t end up looking like a disco ball. Eye shadow is another easy way to get in on the trend and with lots of sparkling golden varieties on the market such as Clinique’s Touch Tint for Eyes in gold is a fab choice, but again be careful that you don’t end up resembling something out of Star Wars if you have pale skin. Remember to enhance your features rather than try to create new ones – don’t go overboard with the metallic make-up! Every girl’s favourite online discounters www.strawberrynet.com or www.bonboncosmetics.com stock wonderful things to help make you shiny, happy and new!

The bling trend is fun and attention getting, and although you do need to be careful and apply in moderation, introducing metallic fashion into your life is bound to make you shine! 
 

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