Watches: the ultimate style accessory for a woman who likes to make a statement without ditching the rule-book. A well-placed watch can bring together an entire look, and of course, keep you on time while you serve at the mid-week meeting or the obligatory Sunday girls’ brunch. Add a splash of mother of pearl to the mix, and you have a recipe for a timepiece that is as elegant as it is impactful. But how do you find the right mother of pearl watch to match your style? With so many shapes, sizes, and colours, answering that question can be tricky, but we’re here to help you out.
Here’s our guide to finding the perfect mother of pearl watch, along with a few handy style tips to help you make it shine.
Mother of pearl watches – gold or silver?
When it comes to the question of which colour/material to select for your new mother of pearl watch, you need only look at the type of jewellery you usually wear. If you lean toward one colour or the other when it comes to things like rings or necklaces, then we advise you play it safe and stick to the same theme.
If, however, you like to mix it up, why not try a two-tone timepiece that incorporates both finishes?
Shop gold watches
Shop silver watches
The question of shape
When it comes to women’s mother of pearl watches, the shape options are almost endless. That said, we prefer sticking to a few tried and true styles that are here to stay, forever.
Round-faced watches
Firstly, you have the ultimate classic: a timeless round-faced watch. This style is a crowd favourite for a reason—round watches offer an elegant vibe that gives heritage and high-jewellery. They also pair beautifully with a matching bangle or cuff, which creates a beautiful, contemporary contrast between the curves of the watch and straight lines of the bracelet.
Tank watches
Tanks have shot to popularity in the past few years, and we’re totally here for it. They we’re of course, always a popular choice, but the love we’ve seen for them recently has gone above and beyond.
The great thing about a mother of pearl tank is that the smaller face makes a flash of pearl feel more like a subtle nod than an all out statement—it’s restrained, it’s chic, and we can’t get enough.
Oval watches
The first ever wristwatch was said to have had an oval face, and it’s fair to say that this historic style has captured many a lady’s heart since then.
This style, like the tank, has been trending hard lately, and we can totally understand why—these pieces are the height of elegance (even without the mother of pearl, which takes this classic silhouette to a totally different level).
Like the classic round-faced watch, oval watches pair beautifully with a straight-edged bracelet like a bangle, cuff, or (our personal fave match-up) a tennis bracelet.
Size matters
So much about choosing the right wristwatch comes down to choosing the right sized face. Yes, part of it comes down to how it looks—some women suit smaller faces while others suit larger ones. But, more important than that (because, lets face it, a mother of pearl watch looks good on anyone regardless of size), is how it feels.
A larger watch will, of course, come with some added weight—and the question is whether you like the feeling of having something solid on your wrist. It’s a totally personal preference, and there’s no right or wrong answer. Many women love that physical, tangible reminder of what they’re wearing that comes with a larger watch, while others will prefer something sleek and virtually weightless.
One must also consider, when it comes to size, how much mother of pearl they want to show. If you prefer pops of brilliance or subtle accents that shine, a smaller watch is probably for you. If, however, you want a timepiece that really makes a statement, then a larger watch is the way to go (more watch = more real-estate for the pearl face).
Parting wisdom
Irrespective of the colour, shape, or style that you choose, you can’t really go wrong with a mother of pearl watch. They’re an elegant, refined, and trusty staple that will carry you through so many different seasons, styles, occasions, and outfits with just the perfect amount of glam.
Want more watch inspo? Check out our full range of watches here.