The 80’s have given us many wonderful things. From the early era of modern body piercing, to neon, to dance music there were many classics. However, there were also some unfortunate things, like the adage “Don’t mix your metals” (and perms). Thankfully, its 2018 and we can toss that old saying away. Mixing metals is IN and here at Amato we are super excited about it! Many of our clients have been embracing mixed metals and we adore the look. Others want to try but are worried how to pull it off. So we’ve written this article, all on the wonderful trend of mixed metals. If you are looking to mix your metals here are some pointers we have to help with a cohesive look-
Add some Texture:
If you find just the look of two mixed tones isn’t for you, adding a touch of texture can help them accent each other better. Pieces like the braided Desiree, hammered discs, the Anatometal Hera, and hammered or beaded seams can all give some light play and tone play across their texture, which can add depth and allow two metals to mix more seamlessly. Chain pieces like the Maya from BVLA and the chain spinners from Maria Tash allow for a different type of texture, and the chains are a dainty way to add a different color Some clients adore the smooth look of two mixed pieces, but if you feel the tonal difference is still too much, a hint of texture can help tone down the intensity. And with like metals (such as rose and yellow) things like sandblasting can accentuate the difference, and make the two pop more in contrast.
Use a gem to bring cohesion:
If just metals aren’t your thing and you’d like a bit of extra, keeping your stones in the same pallet even in different metals can really help tie everything together. Using a single stone, or a matching color story across all your metals can help tie it in and give everything a flow. For example, Opals look soft and classic in white gold, and rose can make their fires pop. Keeping the stone the same and using the different metals to showcase it’s varieties helps everything flow, while still adding that mixed metal effect. Gems like Opals, Pearls, and Diamonds are classics no matter what metal you set them in, while pieces like Amethyst, Ioilite, Rhodolite, and Champagne sapphires show their full range when set in different metals that can bring out different elements of the gem.
Start with a dominant metal:
If you are uneasy about mixing and want to start simple, choose a dominant metal and add only a few delicate touches of a different color to spice things up. Having a dominant metal ensures everything still matches nicely, and the pops of accent metal can guide the eye across the ear and make certain piercings stand out in your set. Rose and yellow make a classic pair, but yellow and white is enchanting in its own right. White and black gold give an antiqued feel, and rose warms up white and pops in contrast. The blending of warm and cool tones can allow both to speak out in their own right.
Lots of people respond with “but what if it doesn’t match my earrings/necklaces/watches?” Well the wonderful thing is- it doesn’t have to! Piercings are unlike other pieces of jewelry in that most folks don’t change them day to day to match an outfit or occasion. You might change your first lobes, and maybe your seconds, but few people are swapping all their cartilage earrings for one special evening. Therefor, you can get away mixing and matching with these! We suggest this- match your body jewelry to your personal style and preferences. The rest will naturally fall into place with what you wear. And if it contrasts for a special day or event- let it! It will bring beautiful attention to your body piercings and allow your face and eyes to stand apart from the rest of your look.
