Each week, DFW Style Daily’s Jim Duran examines an up-and-coming trend for men. From Lil' Wayne to the Jersey Shore, guys' jewelry is his topic for today.
When rapper Lil’ Wayne released the hit
Bling Bling in 1999, little did he know the cultural impact his ode to diamonds and living the good life would make. Suddenly, our style radars were tuned to street savvy hip-hop stars decked out in million-dollar necklaces, belt buckles, kicks, and even
grillz.
Fast-forward 11 years to the fist-pumping
Jersey Shore. There, we witnessed the 100-karat diamond necklaces once worn by Usher and Jay-Z trickle down to unfortunate silver and crystal chains worn by Pauly D and The Situation.
Somewhere between these two ends of the pop culture spectrum there are options for the style conscious, sophisticated, urban gentlemen looking to add a little icing (pun intended) to his wardrobe. Many of today’s finest jewelers have created chic options, just for guys.

To begin, the prime symbol of a man with elegant taste is the signet pinky ring. Worn in silver or gold and typically engraved with the initials of its owner, the signet ring is enjoying a fashion renaissance thanks to Gossip Girl bad boy Chuck Bass. I’m partial to
Ralph Lauren’s version (shown here). Its the perfect accessory for any modern-day Gatsby.
Moving on, no jeweler is catering to the men’s market better than
David Yurman. With excellent craftsmanship and a broad spectrum of bracelets, rings, and timepieces, Yurman rules the men’s jewelry game.

Yurman recently introduced a collection featuring black pavé diamonds that recalls the era of ‘bling’. Insect and equine moldings also add a sophisticated edge (see grouping above).

Finally, though best known for quality leather goods,
Gucci also offers a collection of jewelry for both men and women. The pieces combine the Italian luxury house’s signature sleek and sexy design with iconic accents and exquisite metal craftsmanship. Most notably, the bamboo molding often used in Gucci handbags is rendered in silver for bracelets (shown here), necklaces, and key chains.
Try adding a little shine to your outfit, gentlemen. I believe you’ll agree that it not only completes your look, but also has the power to attract those equally in tune with your sophisticated lifestyle.
(photos, from top: 1. Diamond Pave Rally Chain Bracelet, $4300 and Textured Bee Ring, $1750, David Yurman; 2. Sterling Signet Ring, $475, Ralph Lauren; 3. Black Diamond Wasp Ring (center), $2300, David Yurman; 4. Bamboo Bracelet, $495, Gucci)
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