French cuffs & studs: Bibhu Mohapatra's guide for men to pick the right jewellery

More men are wearing French cuffs, studs and chunky chains, says fashion designer Bibhu Mohapatra, outlining some popular trends in men’s jewellery.

Men should select their jewellery the same way they’d select a watch or a tie, advises fashion designer Bibhu Mohapatra, who was recently in the city for a Preciosa fine jewellery launch.

The trick to picking the right jewellery, according to the designer, is finding your personal story.

“Jewellery is very personal. It has to tell a story that resonates with your own story. For me, I wear tuxedos often so I like to collect studs and cufflinks.”

“And they don’t always have to be highly prized. Sometimes in an antique store, I find pink pearls done in gold – clean, modern. Finding those things can really enhance whatever look you’re going for,” he said, pointing out the black diamond cufflinks adorning his wrists for the day. A gift from Turkish fine jewellery designer Begum Khan, the cufflinks neatly accented the navy blazer that Mohapatra wore.

A Dash of Style
One of Mohapatra’s favourite brands to wear is Chrome Hearts – a high end silver jewellery brand. “I love pieces from them whether it is rings or a skull ring. Their pieces speak about certain aspects of masculinity but at the same time are sort of delicate.” The LA-based brand was also a favourite of the late Karl Lagerfeld, supermodel Bella Hadid and designer/DJ Virgil Abloh.

Other trends that Mohapatra believes men should keep an eye out for are chunky polished metal chains, studs entering mainstream fashion and the rising preference for French cuffs (and cufflinks).

“Whether it’s watches, studs or cufflinks, jewellery is equally important (for men). It may not be that prolific in the offerings for men but, we all love to shine a little bit.”