It’s the most wonderful time of the year — jewelry-buying season, that is.
Your lady love has started dropping not-so-subtle hints, but you don’t mind. She’s an angel who spends all her time bringing the homeless blankets and dinner, a regular Nobel Peace Prize winner. Maybe? Maybe not. But whoever she is, you know she’s a winner (maybe even the one); whatever that girl wants, that girl is going to get if you have anything to say about it. And well, this year, that girl’s heart is set on finding a new bracelet under the tree on Christmas morning.
But here’s the catch: What size is the right size?
Most jewelry comes one-size-fits-all, but not bracelets. Necklaces slip over the neck, or clasp at the bank; earrings only come in one size typically, but not bracelets. Wrist size varies slightly from person to person, and while this disparity isn’t enough to warrant exact sizing specifications, it does pay to know some basic information about bracelet fit.
What are the standard lengths for bracelets?
The standard length for women’s bracelets is 6.5 to 7.5 inches, where seven inches is most common. (In case you’re wondering, men’s bracelets are typically longer: 7.5 to nine inches in length.) “Ah, perfect,” you might be thinking. “My lady has average-sized wrists. Any bracelet will fit her, right?”
Maybe you’re right, but maybe you’re wrong.
When purchasing a bracelet she’s sure to love, don’t forget to account for comfort and movement. The best way to ensure you get the correct size is to measure her wrist.
How do I determine her bracelet size?
Be sneaky. Very very sneaky. You might even want to enlist the help of her best friend. Set up an evening of good food, girl talk… and wrist measurements.
Follow a few simple steps:
- Use a flexible measuring tape or a strip of paper to measure your wrist just below the wrist bone, as this is where bracelets are typically worn.
- If you choose to use paper, measure the strip with a ruler. Otherwise, skip this step.
- Add a quarter-inch to her wrist size for a bracelet that fits snug; a half-inch for standard comfort fit; or a full inch for a loose fit.
How should a bracelet fit?
A bracelet that fits perfectly will be loose enough to move, but not loose enough to let it slide off. Most link bracelets are adjustable, and should be worn with the ability to slide one or two fingers between the chain and her wrist. Bangles can fit close to the wrist or more loose; keep in mind though that they shouldn’t slide over the heel of the hand too easily. Cuff bracelets are made to fit tightly on the wrist or forearm.
Happy holiday shopping!