STYLE : Sudden Impact

When it comes to jewelry this season, it’s all or nothing. Either the look is spare and minimal, or the necklaces are loaded on. Costume pearls, updated when woven with a chain, are seen in profusion on well-tailored women. Younger fashionables are more fond of oversized pendants, grouped together a la the rapper look.

What seems freshest with today’s styles, however, is often just one large, dramatic necklace worn close to the face. The popular 18-inch length offered by most jewelry designers rests on top of the collarbone, works well with simple necklines and flatters most women. Bold sculptural necklaces rendered in a variety of metal finishes are the finishing touch preferred by designers such as Donna Karan and Louis Dell’Olio.

Whether opting for one carefully chosen piece of jewelry or a dozen, keep in mind that these accessories can create any image you may have in mind--from countess to starlet. They also look pretty good at the office.

Hair: Daniel Howell/ Celestine L.A.; makeup: Lucienne Zammit/Cloutier; model: Alisa Cornell/PRIMA Models