Style On Trial, Case#4
Thursday, February 19th, 2009 by Daphne   
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Taking the stand: The Bib necklacestyleontrialbibnecklaceparagraph1

Let’s start by reviewing the case:

This is not the first we’re seeing of the bib necklace. We’ve seen this character before, but he seems to be taking on new forms lately worth examining. For those members of the jury who are unfamiliar with the bib necklace, allow me to explain. As his name implies, the bib necklace resembles– you guessed it– a baby’s bib. It is often made up of a cluster of chains or ornaments that fall just below the collarbone in the center of one’s neck.

This type of necklace has been around for ages, yet somehow manages to re-emerge every couple of years, most recently on the runways. (Refer to exhibit A) Chanel, Marc Jacobs, and Burberry are among the latest designers trying to reincarnate this trend. But while the bib may look good on the runways, are they too bold for every day wear? Please review some of the bib necklaces currently on the market. (Refer to exhibit B) Then proceed to the photos of bib necklaces seen on regular-sized people before making your decision. (Refer to exhibit C)

Evidence:

Exhibit A

runway_bib_necklace2_collage

Exhibit B

bib_necklace_collageinstores2

(From left to right) A Plus R Store, Forever 21, last two: JCrew

Exhibit C

thebibinreallife2

These last pictures (below) were just submitted into evidence after being spotted in a magazine, sorry for the poor resolution but you get the jist of it.

misha_barton_bib_necklace

Let’s see what the Pretty Committee has to say about this trend…

poshhippiethumb3I don’t have much of an opinion on these. I think with a monochromatic outfit with clean lines they could look pretty good, but mostly they just look like something that would protect you from a stray bullet. I haven’t noticed them as a trend. I like big dramatic necklaces, but I haven’t seen many that are THIS big.

trendspotterthumb3Trendspotter: The bib necklace is by no means a criminal in my mind. It’s an attention grabber, but isn’t that the point– to make a statement? The only thing that surprises me about this trend is the timing.  We are in a recession, correct?  Maybe that’s the point of it, buy one and wear it over all the boring clothes you already have.  Hmmm, not sure.  My only advice is to make sure YOU”RE the one wearing the bib, rather than the bib wearing you.

jessonbeach1Jess: I think the bib is gonna be a hit!!! In a strange way, I love them! They’re unique and bold and give a lot of character to an outfit.  When it comes to jewelry, I love stones, so anything that encompasses stones and style, I’m wearing. The tricky part to this style is taking it from the runway to everyday. Like with many styles, what you see on the runway is the extreme. Exhibit B is my favorite.  I think Banana Republic makes some of the best, well-priced pieces of jewelry around.  In Exhibit C, however, picture b is a little too country for me.  I would refrain from wearing fringe around my neck.  I know we have tried it everywhere else (purses, boots, headbands) but c’mon guys, you have to stop somewhere, and the bib necklace is where it ends for me.  In conclusion, I give the bib necklace a  thumbs up, with the exception of the fringe!  Give a little flavor to that black dress :)

ladylexinhamburgthumb2Lady Lex: I’m kind of indifferent about the bib. I’m a fan of chunky jewelry, but I think it looks best when it’s layered, like the necklace seen on Michelle Monaghan. Mischa’s necklace reminds me of a bird I saw on Planet Earth. The male bird would puff out the feathers around his neck just like that when he was trying to attract a female.  Watch the video in the Post Script below. Doesn’t it look just like her necklace? And btw, how many times has she [Mischa] been on trial already? Someone start counting.

daphnethumb2Daph: I don’t love or hate  the  “Bib” necklace trend. Overall, I think it’s harmless and can be fun when worn during daylight hours, with a basic tee or day dress. The bib necklace dresses up something basic and gives it a little edge. A good accessory for trying out a trendy new lunch spot, a shopping outing, or a day party.  It’s a too heavy and has too much detail to be worn at night. I prefer the rounder shape like Mischa’s to the hard V-shape.

The Verdict: For the most part, we’re indifferent to the bib.  Case dismissed.

XOXO,

The gals of INPT

P.S. Here’s the Planet Earth clip I referenced.~Lady Lex

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