The Bold & The Beautiful

About five years ago the paparazzi caught MK wearing an old, ripped Rolling Stones t-shirt with an elaborate (presumably very expensive) crystal necklace.

An over-the-top piece of evening jewelry worn during the day to a college lecture?!

Most people were unimpressed but I loved the contradiction.

It was the ultimate high/low mix; Proof that any piece can be dressed up or down with some simple styling.

When Proenza Schouler showed dramatic, baroque inspired necklaces for fall I was reminded of that paparazzi picture. Even though the style is obviously very different one thing is very clear- statement making necklaces are FINALLY having a moment. So whether you're dressing up a pajama top with crystals, or playing clash of the colors adding a bold necklace (or three!) can completely change the style and feel of any outfit.

This season there are plenty to choose from at all different price points!

Oh, MK, always ahead of your time!

A simple or neutral colored outfit can always use a punch of bright colors.

Try this Lucite and Swarvoski crystal necklace by Erickson Beamon ($985)

For a more affordable version try the Maritime Necklace at Francesca's Collection ($38)

If something simple is more to your taste J.Crew's resin and gold link necklace ($39.50) still adds a pop of color without being too overwhelming especially for day.

Want to re-create my favorite mini-mogul's look?

A gold, tribal version will look great through the rest of the summer while the dramatic, over-the-top crystal look can work any time!

I really like Pamela Love's Hope Crescent Breast Plate ($400) in gold or bronze. It manages to be dramatic and sexy but not overpowering and would look great against a tan or crisp, white shirt.

If its a shimmery look you want then Tom Binns' saves the day with his large white deco crystal necklace. It's beautiful but it has the large price tag ($1700) to match.

My lower-priced choice comes from Etsy seller, KillerJewels. (Supporting independent artisans and businesses is always stylish!) Their Art Deco Pewter Necklace also contains some Swarvoski but rings in at a sweet $23!

If you're still after Proenza's version (Nina Garcia wore it in white, paired with a black top on this week's Project Runway premiere) sorry- it doesn't seem to be available. The boys have announced a costume jewelry line but it's not yet in stores. But don't fret! If you're crafty and up to a challenge head over to PS I Made This for a step-by-step guide to creating your own, one-of-a-kind baroque necklace!

(Thanks to Style.Com, The Fashion Spot, Etsy, J.Crew, Francesca's, Net-A-Porter, Tom Binns, and Pamela Love for the images!)