Time for an Update
Learn what’s popular in the world of watches
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When you think about wardrobe accessories, earrings and necklaces probably come to mind.
But how often do you look at your watch as an extension of your fashion sense?
“Watches really are a piece of jewelry that help define your personal style,” says Jennifer Demmary, director of merchandising for Reis-Nichols. “There are so many watches out there to show your style.”
What’s hot in the world of fashion tends to influence so many other areas. Watches are no exception.
“Fashion influences watches in the same way that watches influence fashion,” says Amy E. Goodman, Timex fashion trend director and author of Wear This, Toss That!
If you’re looking for a watch update and want to pick up something new, Goodman and Demmary explain what’s hot in the world of watches.
Animal Prints
Animal prints and skins are huge this fall, Goodman says. Timex’s fall collection features python, leopard and zebra print leather straps.
Gold
Go for the gold, which is the metal of the moment, Goodman says.
Ceramic
Ceramic isn’t just for figurines perched on a bookshelf. Demmary says white ceramic watches with combinations of steel and diamonds are extremely popular.
Color
Look for watches with pops of color, like red, blue and purple. On the other end of the color spectrum, tan and cream-colored dials and bands also are popular, Goodman says.
Interchangeable straps
Switch it up with interchangeable straps. These are especially good for showing your personal style and keeping your wardrobe up to date without spending a ton of money, Demmary says. “If your style is fun and crazy, you can throw on a crazy printed strap and show your style. If you love everything to coordinate and match, you can have the perfect color strap to match every outfit.”
Oversized
Take a cue from men. Women are either buying a men’s style or a woman’s watch with oversized features, Goodman says. “We sell a number of our military-inspired watches and oversized watches with elegant dials,” she says.
The Watch Wardrobe
In her book, Goodman recommends owning at least two watches: one with a leather strap and one with a bracelet.
“From there, you should consider the circumstances for which you wear a watch the most,” she says, “whether for work or play, dressy or casual, weekday, weeknight or weekend.
“Also consider trends — perhaps you want a gold watch to tap into the chic ’70s styling this fall or a neutral-toned watch to pair with a flowy cape.”
She suggests aiming for variety and diversity. If you wear a lot of black, consider a colored strap. And if your current favorite has a small face, look into one with a larger face.
“If you do this, eventually you can have a watch for every occasion,” Goodman says.
Before You Buy
Goodman and Demmary give their tips for buying a watch.
> Think about size. Don’t let a watch’s face overtake your arm. It should be no wider than your wrist, Goodman says.
> Find your style. Ask yourself: Am I sporty, classic, conservative, chic or a little edgy? Demmary says.
Look to your wardrobe and lifestyle to pick the right watch. If you prefer clean lines, consider a watch with a fuss-free face and Roman numerals, Goodman suggests. If you’re the outdoors type, a watch with a nylon strap may be best. And if you like to sparkle, a watch with crystals or mother of pearl can be a great accessory.
> Keep function in mind. Do you need a watch with a temperature gauge? Or one that features a compass and is also water resistant? Maybe one that simply tells time is sufficient.
> Evaluate what you have. If you already own a metal watch, consider one with a leather strap. “Take a look in your closet, and see how you can match up your watch needs with clothing ensembles you already own,” Goodman says.
> Stick to your budget. Make sure what you need meets your budget, Goodman says. A Timex can fit just about every budget while, for many, a Chanel qualifies as a serious splurge.
