By Kiundu Waweru

Wearing precious metal ornaments such as earrings, chains and bracelets has previously been the preserve of women. But the modern man is increasingly giving her a run for her money.

And the man is wearing the jewellery confidently for all occasions — in the office, at social places or when relaxing at home.

Men’s jewellery comes in many forms: watches, cufflinks, chains, bracelets and tie pins that can be worn together keeping in mind the type and colour of the clothing.

Cecilia Mueni of Enkarasha says jewellery for the office should be subtle and cool. "With the advent of the mobile phone, people ditched the watch but it is slowly making a comeback. For the office, a leather strap is convenient, and the dial should show both the day and date as it is unprofessional for one to continually flash the phone from the pocket to check these," she says.

Cufflinks come in the same colour as the tiepin, either silver or gold.

Photos: Kiundu Waweru/Items Courtesy of Enkarasha Fashion

"Choose the colour according to your individual preference taking into consideration the shade of your shirt. Silver is popular with younger men and is cheaper than gold," says Mueni.

She adds that if one is not wearing a tie, one can wear a chain.

"A fashion faux pas is mixing the colours of the jewellery. If you wear a silver watch, the rest of your jewellery should be silver."

For the casual look, watches with big dials are the way to go. Choose either a leather or chain strap.

"For the middle aged, leather straps are ideal. Also, while wearing jeans and a T-shirt, sport a bracelet that compliments the chain," she says.

She further advises that gold looks better on dark skin while silver compliments the light-skinned.

And you can have a customised bracelet with your name, or whatever other message you fancy, engraved.

"Big studded rings complete the casual look. But for office wear, a wedding band will do."