Jan 14

Jan 14 Style Icon: Brynn Elliott Watkins

Brynn Elliott Watkins shares her thoughts on accessorizing and how some of her favorite pieces of jewelry remind her of family.

Brynn Elliott Watkins is a creative director, stylist and filmmaker, as well as the voice behind Being Elliott, a lifestyle, fashion and travel blog. Brynn is working on so many amazing projects right now. She is responsible for the styling in a lot of stunning photo shoots, many on the pages of Darling magazine. She also recently played the starring role in a short film, called Dropped. It was filmed in Iceland, and is currently making the festival rounds. And in the next few months, you can expect some big news from her in the fashion world. Her biggest project yet, of course, is her baby girl, just born in November.

Earrings: Annie Costello Brown. Engagement and Wedding Ring: Tiffany & Co. Ring: Erica Weiner. Jeans: Re/done. Top: vintage Calvin Klein.

Brynn was named “Internationally Best Dressed” and was featured in Vanity Fair magazine, so, naturally, her style is incredibly inspiring. Her Brooklyn apartment is light, airy, and full of joy. Her jewelry is a mix of big, bright pieces and smaller, more minimal looks.

I asked Brynn a few questions about how she styles herself, and here’s what she said:

How would you describe your jewelry style?

Minimal with an explosion of boldness if my mood is ready for it. I just kinda feel the day out.

What jewelry do you wear on a regular day?

I wear my wedding/engagement rings plus my dainty diamond and sapphire ring. Usually I’ll throw on a necklace or two, but from day-to-day I’m quite minimal unless the mood strikes me.

On a special occasion?

I usually like to go for a statement earring or necklace. I love to tie my hair into a low pony or side bun and let the earrings do all the talking.

Do you have any philosophy in how to accessorize? Do you plan the clothes first or the accessories first?

I say “do you.” If you want to pile on the bracelets--more power to you. I, personally, love to add family heirlooms to my looks. It keeps them close. I usually do clothes first then accessories.

What are your go-to jewelry brands?

I love Annie Costello Brown for beautiful handmade statement earrings. For fine jewelry, I adore Cartier and also have the most beautiful timepiece by them (a birthday gift last year from my husband). For vintage pieces, Erica Weiner has a wonderful selection. But sometimes I honestly just run to Claire’s to get a toe ring.

Stores you shop at? Both online and brick and mortar?

I really buy a lot of vintage and like to thrift when I can. I really like the hunt. As far as regular stores go, I love to get pieces from Doen, Ulla Johnson, and Reformation.

What is the most special piece of jewelry you own and why?

It is simply impossible to pick just one. I love this beautiful southwestern cuff that belonged to my Grandma Beth. She loved to wear statement pieces and it reminds me of all the times we spent together when I wear it.

Necklace: In God We Trust. Earrings: Cartier. Dress: La Perla. Jacket: Vintage Chanel.

Can you tell me a story about a time when you discovered an amazing piece (either at a store, flea market, your mom’s closet)? Tell me about the hunt.

I have this wonderful ring that I bartered for hardcore at the flea market in Santa Fe New Mexico (one of my favorite places). I was on a trip with my dad to New Mexico and we were searching for a southwestern style ring. Finally, I saw the perfect one. After seeing the ring, it just seemed meant to be. After some intense back and forth with the reluctant seller, it has been mine ever since. I love a good happy ending.