Hand Deco

Ask any designer on the brink of perennial success what signifies true craftsmanship and they will most likely offer an answer that wavers between a “unique vision” and “attention to detail”. The latter, of course, is the one of the most prevalent answers out there at the moment. Blame the current fashion zeitgeists for the obsession with particulars when it comes to clothing because people would much rather spice up an outfit with affordable accents, than to blow money on limited apparel. Men included. So why not begin accenting the part of the body that is physically used most than any other? (With the exception of feet…but that’s what shoes are for). Rings, bracelets, cuffs, and neo-forms of jewelry on the edge of discovery are beginning to pose interesting challenges for the gentlemen of the world that will undoubtedly be met with conviction. After all, a man donning silver art on his fingers, as in the picture above, is no doubt a signal that the times are indeed changes.

Legendary artists like Vivenne Westwood and Alexander McQueen are no strangers to the area of innovate accessories for both men and women, creating pieces that defy the limits that pop culture places on modern fashion. As younger designers like Alexander Wang begin to join the ranks of fashion game changers in regards to men’s accessories, the lads of the industry are looking to the future with a glimmer in their eyes.

Text Ricardo Hernandez Image via Jak and Jil

Jewels Are Man's Best Friends

In the world of fashion, you have the everyday minimalists and the unconventional maximalists. The former adheres to the simple look, while the latter sticks to the mantra “more is more”. A common minimalist will tend to opt for a single statement piece that can accent the rest of the outfit; the zealous alternative will opt for a far more intricate route. More specifically, they will count on the intricacies of jewelry for a complex style presentation. All of this is true for women, but it goes for men as well. The growing interest in jewelry within the male community is a puzzling one, especially considering the stereotype of the male ego and its relationship with feminine tendencies. It’s quite possible that modern designers are behind this fashion phenomenon, much like the Spanish craftsman David Delfin, whose contemporary shapes yet futuristically edgy designs push the boundaries of what exactly defines masculine style. Not to mention his unique contributions to men’s jewelry.