Delicate necklaces and me haven't always been friends. I used to find them too footery, too fiddly and just a bit, well, meh. They lacked the impact of a big statement piece and, until recently, lay abandoned and ignored in my jewellery case. I say until recently as I've really taken to the layered necklace trend. It's a brilliant way of adding just the touch of femininity and polish to a t-shirt and jeans without looking too girlie or overdone. I've also found wearing those 'meh' pieces layered does turn them into a statement piece, especially if you incorporate a bit of personality to your layers by getting personal with your pieces.

Being north of 40 and having enjoyed too much time sunbathing, wearing anything that showcases my my decolletage (upper chest area if we're not talking beauty speak) isn't something I've been prone to do, preferring to cover up. But I think sometimes by trying to camouflage an area, we only draw attention to it and that's a sign to others we're hiding something. I'm also finding the delicate layers offer a lighter touch and are a bit more youthful than a big chunky piece - to my eyes at least.

Another bonus is that not only am I getting use out of those previously abandoned pieces, I've been finding brilliant bargains in the sales sections too. Freedom at Topshop has been my go-to for my necklaces as they have a fab 'Finer' collection that's great quality and there always seems to be some sale pieces on the go. Most of the new pieces featured in the images below are from Topshop and most cost a mere £3!

If you're tempted to give the layered look a go, here are my three top tips for nailing the trend at any age.  

1

Generally speaking, three is the magic number, anymore and things can get a little too fussy, not to mention tangled. This look is about grouping delicate pieces and each needs its space in the spotlight, so don't overcrowd your neckline. If you really are looking to channel your inner Mr T, save it for summer when you can build up your layers by incorporating longer length chains and necklaces when wearing maxi dresses, silk camisoles and the like. But for winter, less is more.

2

It goes without saying that you want to be using necklaces of varying lengths, but don't feel they have to be all gold or all silver or all brass, for that matter. Mixing your metals can create a greater impact, especially if you stick to super fine chains. Start with your most delicate or precious piece and build from there. I call this my 'anchor' piece and like to wear my first strand quite high but there's no hard and fast 'rule'. Go for what looks and feels best on you. Same with the placement of the necklaces that follow.

3

Get personal. Remember how great the 'Carrie' necklace looked on SATC? A name necklace like that or a mantra (the one shown on me says 'Make Your Own Magic') would look great as an anchor piece to which you could add other more generic necklaces to. Also think about incorporating something your zodiac sign or initial or even threading some old or treasured rings (as I did with my third layer) to make your statement totally unique to you. They can also be a good talking point too. If you have something that has a bit of sparkle to it (I used a 'Throat Chakra' pendant as my second layer), all the better as a bit of bling is great for catching the light and adding a bit more interest. Ditto, a piece like the dream catcher pendant pictured below.  

I urge you to give the layered necklace look a go as it's a great way to inject a bit of polish into an everyday look, but without looking too try hard. Plus I think it's quite a youthful look, that anyone, at any age, can have fun with and there are plenty ready-made multi strand pieces out there from everyone from Primark to Michael Kors to Swarovski should you fancy the look but not the faff of doing it yourself!

Sincerely Yours,

Ps. Here's some retail inspiration

Photography by Susie Cormack Bruce

All prices correct at time of posting.