In today’s society, bracelets are seen as women’s accessories. However, history tells us that men have always worn bracelets and wristbands – just look at warriors and kings from different cultures; even prehistoric men wore bracelets made of bone and shells to ward off evil spirits. It was only recently that bracelets were seen as fashion add-ons rather than status symbols.
In the more recent past, though, bracelets seem to enjoy resurgence among males. It’s increasingly becoming normal to the eye and less attention-grabbing when a man wears it in public. In the past five years or so, bracelets have become more than just trinkets worn for symbolic reasons in pep rallies and cause awareness drives. The modern man now understands that a bracelet can help complement his clothing if done correctly.
Here are a few reasons why you should start considering bracelets as an addition to the things you wear:
One, it can fire up a great discussion. Whether you’re sporting a silicone wristband that supports an organization or a mixed-media piece that evokes a certain culture, a bracelet can be a conversation starter. Interesting accessories can attract attention in a positive way. Your bracelet can become an awareness and recruitment vehicle for your pet non-profit organization. Or it could be the excuse that a pretty woman needs to approach you. Who knows until you wear that bracelet?
In today’s world where cookie-cutter fashion is prevalent, having a simple yet unique fashion accessory is an easy way to stand out.
A bracelet can also be an expression of your personality. As much as your choice of clothing can be an exhibit of your individuality, so too can your choice of bracelets and wristbands. Athletic, metropolitan, classic – your accessories can communicate your character.
Bracelets and wristbands can also be a window to your cultural heritage; there are places around the world where bracelets are a traditional part of their dress code. Again, your wrist piece can be a conversation starter; you can educate someone about your culture and start a lively discussion about different philosophies and customs around the world. All because of a simple piece of accessory!
If you’re hesitant about exploring more daring fashions, bracelets or printable wristbands can be your doorway to bolder style choices. If you’ve always stuck to neutral and dark shades, a small pop of color from your accessories can make a big difference. It’s not an overwhelming part of your wardrobe, so you can always mix-and-match and experiment with different styles.
You can start getting used to adding little bright, interesting elements to your daily fashion through bracelets. You don’t even have to overhaul your entire closet. A little dash of color or texture can add interest to your otherwise simple outfits.
A bracelet or wristband can also be a practice in fashion etiquette. For example, if you’re pairing a watch with another wrist accessory, you should choose which one is going to be the center of attention. Will it be your watch or your bracelet? You don’t need to always be “matchy-matchy”, but you should remember to tone down one accessory if you already have a “loud” one.
Metal bracelets should be slim and sleek and should match tones – don’t wear gold and silver accessories together. On the other hand, bracelets made from silicone, rubber, cloth, or other materials may either be thick or thin, depending on the occasion, location, and the outfit you’re going to wear.
Finally, a bracelet can be a stylish manifestation of your beliefs. You’re your own person, and you don’t let customs define or restrict you or your choices. You can defy the norms while still being respectful and tasteful. Bracelets and wristbands aren’t only stylish when you wear them, they also carry meaning and purpose.
Wristbands and bracelets can be effective tools in expressing yourself, promoting a cause, and upholding a culture. The choice of what, when, and how to wear these accessories is entirely up to you, but no matter your reason, let it be your own choice – just like your selections of wristbands and bracelets.
