While the crook of the elbow has always played host to a designer bag and our décolletages are home to a piece of jaw-dropping jewellery, it’s the wrist that has emerged as the stage to show off the latest opulent accessory coveted by the chicest dressers around—luxury watches. From Zoë Kravitz to Zendaya, this unsung joint has been reclaimed by style savants as prime real estate for showing off this hallmark of savoir faire and refined taste.

“There's just something about watches that feel elevated in a way that other fashion items don't,” says Brynn Wallner, a watch expert, writer and founder of femme-forward resource Dime Piece.

Wallner is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to horology, providing everything from exclusive insights to leading industry events to dropping the names of the latest trending style to grace a celebrity’s wrist and translating the craftsmanship of these heritage pieces into a digestible, quippy and accessible language. Most of all, Wallner has the inside scoop on the luxury watches that are rising in popularity, selling the most and soon to be the item du jour, which means that you can count on her advice to steer you in the right direction when purchasing your first investment or simply adding to your collection.

And as a fashion writer at Who What Wear UK, this is something that especially resonates with me. Watches are set apart in the way that they are incredibly symbolic. Sure, they will keep you on track and mark the passage of time, but they’ll also serve as a permanent reminder to stay present and that true elegance is eternal. A luxury watch is something that, when chosen well, will serve you through all seasons of life, and there is truly no time like the present to start building an arsenal of your own.

As Waller so aptly puts it, “there's a lot of pressure on that one item to go with a lot of different outfits”. She continues: “Your watch needs to look just as cool when you’re going to the grocery store as it would be to a work cocktail event.” With so many watch brands on the market, from heavy hitters like Cartier to more contemporary and design-led fashion maisons like Chanel, it’s also hard to know where to begin. Allow this, then, to be your comprehensive guide to the best luxury watches for women. From the styles of note to professional advice and the factors to keep in mind when shopping, uncover everything you need to know about the best luxury watches for women, ahead.

The 11 Best Luxury Watches for Women:

1. Cartier de Panthère

Style Notes: Sleek, feline and sinuous in shape, the Cartier de Panthère watch is one of the French house’s most iconic silhouettes. Created in 1983 by Michèle Kanoui, the design boasts a fluid bracelet that curves around the wearer’s wrist—much like the eponymous jungle cat the creation derives its name from—and a demure, mini square face. While its devotees include Princess Diana and Gwyneth Paltrow, the appetite for the piece has intensified in recent years, with the watch spotted everywhere from Kylie Jenner in Venice to Timothée Chalamet courtside at an NBA game. (Couples who share dress watches, stay together, right?). There's a reason why Cartier is so prevalent,” Wallner says, and that’s built on literal centuries of work, their famous clientele, their imagination, the way they position themselves and their prowess as both watchmaker and jewellery maker”. “They just know what they're doing,” she adds.

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2. Chanel Première

Style Notes: To know Chanel is to know their hallmarks—soft ribbons of leather that weave through a chain strap, candy-coloured woven tweed, a slingback that curves at the front and features a contrasting front cap. Of all the luxuriate’s signatures, however, it’s their watches that remain the most underrated. In 2022, Chanel proved just why their timepieces were amongst the most desirable with the release of the Première Édition. The watch was inspired by an original design from 1987 and paid homage to the brand’s most iconic motifs, with the octagon face calling back to the stopper perched on a bottle of No.5 perfume and straps evoking the braiding of the Flap bag. Now, Chanel is expanding their haute horlogerie category with a jewellery-forward iteration dubbed the Première Galon. A true cocktail watch, the style is accented by a gilded, twisted bangle that fuses sophistication with functionality. It’s already earning the endorsement of It girls, too, with Gracie Abrams, Devon Lee Carlson and Blackpink’s Jennie already wearing this style on repeat.

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3. Longines Mini DolceVita

Style Notes: Living life “la dolce vita” might be a calling card for those looking to emulate the serenity and sweetness of the azure Mediterranean, but for luxury Swiss watchmaker Longines, the phrase takes on a different meaning. The brand’s Mini DolceVita watch is a rectangular shape marked with a silver "flinqué" and blue steel hands. An extension of the original style which was first released in the 1920s, hence its similarity to the Cartier Tank, the piece is considerably more elegant than the average everyday watch, yet is still perfect for quotidian affairs. Of course, if you take cues from the watch’s starry wearers like Audrey Hepburn, Kate Winslet and Jennifer Lawrence, these everyday activities include galavanting down the Boulevard de la Croisette for the annual Cannes Film Festival. A life well lived, indeed.

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4. Bulgari Serpenti

Style Notes: Historically, snakes have always served as an object of temptation. Fitting then, that Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti watch is such a coveted fixture within luxury spheres. The piece first rose to prominence in 1962 when the original showgirl, Elizabeth Taylor, wore it while filming Cleopatra in the Italian capital. (An incredibly apt appearance given Bulgari’s Roman roots.) Watches truly don’t get more decadent than this, especially when you consider the Tubogas—the most recognisable style in the Serpenti family—and its spiral band that winds up the forearm or cabochon cut pink rubellite crown. More discrete dressers can also enjoy this iconic motif with the Seduttori, a timepiece that incorporates a python print through the form of tessellating stainless steel, rose gold or yellow gold scales.

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5. Rolex Lady Datejust

Style Notes: When you think of luxury watches, Rolex is likely the first name that springs to mind. That was the case for Wallner, too. “Watch brands kind of missed me in their marketing, and when I say me, I mean someone who is representative of a millennial woman with a good job and disposable income,” she said. “I didn't have any context or know about watches at all, and the only watch brand I knew was Rolex.” Now, as a certified expert on the topic, Wallner still cites Rolex as one of the most prolific luxury watch brands in the world. However, of all the watch styles Rolex has forged over its century in operation, it’s the Datejust that Wallner recommends the most. Not only is it the Geneva-based watch brand’s highest-selling model, as Wallner tells me, but the one she personally sees the most of chic dressers. (Which is saying a lot, considering how many watch aficionados and professionals she interacts with on a daily basis!) Oh, and did I mention that Victoria Beckham, Jennifer Aniston, Rihanna and Carmela Soprano? Talk about a powerhouse line-up.

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6. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Style Notes: There are certain luxury brands that aren’t typified by an ostentatious logo, but rather recognised through a specific stitch, diminutive thread or strategic fabric choice. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is one such example of this in the watch world, with a captivating octagonal case, grid-esque grande tapisserie dial and a folding bracelet subtle indicators that identify the piece to eagle-eye enthusiasts. On the contrary, AP is also a house that doesn’t hesitate to flex its horological finesse, either. “Iced out”, as Wallner describes it, versions of the Royal Oak are becoming increasingly popular, with some styles dripping in brilliant-cut diamonds and set in an 18-carat white gold case. "There is the quiet luxury element, but there also is like the flashy element, too," Wallner says. "We saw Aryna Sabalenka, who is an AP brand ambassador, wearing her big rose gold Royal Oak with the diamonds on it after she won the US Open. That is not a subtle watch, it's flashy and has ‘wow’ factor." Perennial tastemaker, Hailey Bieber, also has both iterations and wears them regularly, proving how a watch really does help set the mood. "I feel like there is the more subtle way of wearing a watch, but there's also the flex way and we're seeing both," Wallner adds. "We're seeing women flex in the way that men have historically, especially when they're like on their like next level of collecting."

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7. Patek Philippe Nautilus

Style Notes: A watch that has Beyoncé waxing lyrical about it on a song is enough to have us sit straight up and pay attention. But it’s safe to say that the Patek Philippe Nautilus doesn’t require much to pique our interest. Just look at it! Launched in 1976 as an elegant sports watch for maritime pursuits, the porthole shape has served as the ideal canvas to showcase the bounds of high-end Swiss watchmaking. A bezel encrusted with spessartite baguettes that create a halo of gemstones ranging from deep cognac to light champagne? Of course, that’s possible! How about a full gem-set finish with 2,364 brilliant-cut internally flawless diamonds placed in a wave pattern across the dial? Consider it done. These pieces are so coveted that there’s even a waitlist that spans half a decade at minimum in order to purchase one. Funny how time flies…

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8. Omega Constellation

Style Notes: If timepieces were measured on the chicness of their ambassadors alone, Omega would certainly be leading the charge. With endorsements from every corner of the entertainment world, Omega’s lineup includes Hollywood dynasties like supermodel mother-daughter duo Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber, Australian actress Nicole Kidman and her nascent model scion Sunday Rose and the formidable former James Bond, Daniel Craig. This starry group is becoming for the brand that brought us the Constellation, a watch that features slender curves, graceful claws and a dial that’s marked by a mother-of-pearl face and diamonds that delineate the hour.

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9. Tissot SRV

Style Notes: Tissot was born in the heart of Swiss horology—a region regarded and renowned as the best in the business. With an origin story like that, it’s truly destiny that they should be revered for creating one of the best luxury watches for women. Of all the designs to choose from and covet, it’s the SRV. Inspired by Art Deco design, the face subverts the classic eight-sided convention by elongating the structure with a sleek and geometric lens.

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10. IWC Schaffhausen Portofino

Style Notes: The turquoise harbour, pastel houses and sprawling hillside of Portofino, a quieter coastal enclave tucked in along the Italian Riviera, is a place that’s ripe to be mined for inspiration. IWC Schaffhausen did exactly that, choosing the jet-set destination as the name for one of their most recognisable shapes. Inspired by a pocket watch, this design features a larger watch face for a more imposing and dominant design that evokes the essence of styles popular in the late 20th Century. “These larger styles trickled down from ‘90s supermodels wearing these big Rolex Daytonas and inverting the gender norms and labels associated with watches,” explains Wallner. “It's cool for a woman to wear a big man's watch, like a sports watch, a chronograph or a diver watch, and challenge what's being sold to them.”

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11. Hermès Cut

Style Notes: Hermès can be viewed as a barometer of what’s in taste. Poetic and refined, but never sombre or austere, the brand is the pinnacle of what it means to be a modern, luxury fashion house. And while the leather goods like the Hermès Birkin or Kelly often steal the spotlight, Wallner has put me onto their watches. “I love what Hermès is doing, I think their watch programme is amazing,” she says. They released the Cut watch two years ago, which was a sports watch designed for women with an automatic movement, which is just like androgynous and cool,” she adds.

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What Luxury Watches are Trending for Women?

Now that you’re familiar with the precise best luxury watches for women, it’s high time we discuss the specific trends that are currently dominating. The most apparent is the rise in the cocktail watch. These styles are more minute and double as a piece of bijoux. (Think: Cartier Baignoire and Tiffany HardWear.)

As the name suggests, these designs are more suited towards early evening soirées and pair perfectly with a chilled dirty martini or opera glove. Delicate in nature and evoking the essence of high jewellery, these are styles that are considerably more dramatic when compared to slightly larger and softer shapes. Yet at a time where purveyors of the arts and trips to cultural institutions like ballets, galleries, galas and theatres are dwindling, these delicate pieces are actually resonating outside of these arenas.

In fact, smaller watches, like the Cartier Santos Dumont, which Taylor Swift wore during her engagement to Travis Kelce, are on the rise and speak to a trend of practicality over pompousness. Speaking to me about her first investment watch, the Cartier Tank Francaise, Wallner tells me that she gravitated towards this style because of its ease of wear and versatility. “I wanted something daintier that I could stack and would go with every outfit without being such a statement, especially for my first watch,” she says. “I think that this new wave of female enthusiasts are oftentimes looking for their first watch, and I think it's just a safer bet not to buy a huge one.”

“We are seeing a rise in more jewellery-forward pieces; gem sets, cocktail watches, for instance,” she continues. “If you can't afford the high jewellery or the iced-out watch, it is an exciting category to look at on the secondary market because, for a long time, those watches have been really undervalued.

“Part of the reason why we've been seeing a rise in small watches for men and women is because they're kind of different from what's on the primary market, so you see people going to thrift stores and scouring The Real Real to find these really edgy and individualistic pieces.

"If you open your mind and your heart to more creative, design-forward pieces, and if you have the patience to really look online, there are deals to be had."

What to Consider When Buying a Luxury Watch?

When it comes to actually making your first luxury watch purchase, it can often feel like you’re weighed down by decision fatigue, which isn’t the most ideal mindset to be in when making a decision that will set you back hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Therefore, it’s imperative that you factor every element in—metal, size, weight, quality, heritage, everything!

“You should also think about what metal you wear. If you’re more of a white metal person, you would go with steel or yellow gold,” Wallner says. “Size does factor in, too,” she continues. “It might be nice to buy a really, really huge watch, but practically, you should consider how it sits on your wrist. You want to buy something that feels comfortable, so you need to strike the right balance. I always tell people to just stay within their means and not like go crazy."

What are the Best Brands for Luxury Women's Watches?

When it comes to luxury watches, it’s really important to note that the best brands are the best simply because of the history and legacy that supports their creations. The crux of the industry are the Swiss majors, including Rolex, Omega, Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe.

Cartier and Bulgari are also incredible names, but they have made a name for themselves for the way they combine their jewellery knowledge with innovative horological practices. To me, however, the most exciting brands are the disruptive fashion maisons that are emerging as worthy contenders. Applying the craftsmanship of their ateliers to this category, these are brands who are shaking things up and ensuring the more established labels stay nimble and competitive, which in turn delivers the most impactful and original devices. Wallner agrees with me, citing Louis Vuitton as an example of a maison that is doing this well. “It’s really exciting because it's introducing new players as more creative and design-minded fashion houses start taking their watch programmes seriously”

“I think it's opening the eyes of more standard and heritage watch brands,” she adds. “It's just kind of like a cradle of innovation going on, and it's not just innovation focused on the movement and what's inside, but also design coming from the expertise of the fashion houses. I think it's bringing more women, too, because fashion brands get women. The customer base is already there, they're already switched on and engaged.”

They say that necessity is the mother of invention. However, if you look attentively at the most prolific watch and jewellery designs, you’ll notice that these creations weren’t spurred on by obligation. Instead, these iconic silhouettes derive inspiration from everyday objects that might go unnoticed to the untrained eye.

The Cartier Baignoire watch is one such icon that starts with this rudimentary pretence. Translating to "bathtub"| in English, the recognisable oval outline takes influence from the curved contours of these soaking hotspots, transforming this regular space of respite into something far more sophisticated. Because who amongst us doesn’t believe that the ultimate form of luxury isn’t an act of self-indulgence?

But the Baignoire isn’t necessarily about pampering oneself. There are plenty of other Cartier pieces that express this notion better. (The screw-sealed Love is amongst this set, though someone like Dakota Johnson, who is known for her passion for bathing, might certainly see it this way. As she told the Wall Street Journal, "I will get in a bathtub at any moment, any time of the day.")

Instead, like the vessel it mimics the shape of, it’s a masterclass in passing time. Quite an apt description for a chronometer, no? Or, as Brynn Wallner puts it, a "proof of concept of watching and eyeing off what people are talking about and intentionally creating something specific from it."

What Is the Cartier Baignoire Watch?

The Cartier Baignoire watch is a style that dates back over a century, yet it really only found its place in the annals of horology over the past few years. The watch itself boasts soft curves, a beaded crown set with a sapphire cabochon, a silvered dial and a quartz movement.

With a smaller model and delicate finish, the discrete elegance inherent to the shape makes it a ripe choice for stylish dressers interested in something both conspicuous and contemporary.

Yet, when compared to the Cartier Panthère or Tank, it's a style that certainly flew under the radar for decades.

Wallner is a writer and watch expert who serves as a "femme-forward resource", as she says herself, under the name Dimepiece. Launched in 2020 during the coronavirus pandemic, Wallner disrupted the industry through her insightful, approachable and colloquial commentary at a time when horology wasn’t necessarily pandering to female consumers. This scarcity left space for Wallner to fill, which she did with wit, humour and an eagle eye for celebrity watch-spotting and identifying the next most covetable style.

Despite never owning a watch while running the account—a blight she swiftly corrected with the purchase of a Cartier Tank Française to commemorate the platform’s first anniversary and her 31st birthday—Wallner tells me over Zoom from her apartment in New York that it was the infrequently discussed Baignoire that piqued her interest.

The History of the Cartier Baignoire Watch

Created in 1912, the Cartier Baignoire was born into obscurity after Louis Cartier, the grandson of the brand’s founder Louis-François Cartier, designed the shape for Russian Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna. The rounded edges and petite face were quite revolutionary for the time, and in 1958, it went into production before being officially baptised as the Baignoire in 1974, earning the support of early adopters like French New Wave actress Jeanne Moreau by direct consequence. These endorsements certainly helped the Baignoire remain as Cartier's best-kept secret—a reputation that followed it through to the 2020s.

"A year and a half before starting Dimepiece, a friend of mine who I worked with at Sotheby's introduced me to Alan Bedwell, a professional watch dealer who goes by Foundwell," Wallner explains.

"He’s been in the business for 20 years, and on our first watch 'date', he came with a little pouch of ladies' watches to do a show and tell. Amongst those watches was the Cartier Baignoire, which I had never seen or heard of before, even though I had done a lot of research. I was like, 'What is this watch? It's so cute. I'm obsessed.' He explained it was a Cartier Baignoire and that it was named after a bathtub. I looked into it and was so surprised by the fact that, despite Catherine Deneuve wearing it and having this cool '60s design, nobody was talking about it.

"So, I started posting about it being like, 'Oh my god, the Cartier Baignoire is so cute, how come nobody told me!' Other people started to notice it, too, after I started calling it out. At the time, those watches were so undervalued on the secondary market. Nobody really cared about them or wanted them, which is why Alan had his collection for, like, ever."

Wallner’s publicity for the Baignoire certainly bolstered its desirability in the space, and it was a little over a year later that Cartier cemented this online fervour with a splashy release.

"Cartier was kind of watching what was unfolding online, and so in 2023 at Watches and Wonders [an annual trade event held in Geneva], their big release that year was the Baignoire on the bangle. It was also like the reintroduction of the Baignoire into the Cartier stable. That watch just took off after that. The Baignoire got the wait-list treatment a lot of popular men's watches get. It became really hard to purchase. You couldn’t just go into the Cartier store and buy the watch because it's sold out, so all these people were like, 'How do I get this watch?'

"That moment was the first time in recent history when a lady's watch was so coveted. The Baignoire bangle has all these elements that nod to Cartier’s history as a jewellery maker, and when [it was unveiling] it, the brand explained that it was designed to be stacked, which was surprising to hear because stacking is almost a taboo subject in the watch industry. So I thought, 'Oh, they really thought about women and how women like to wear watches when they were creating this."

Is the Cartier Baignoire Considered a Dress Watch?

To that point, one of the most impressive elements about the Cartier Baignoire is the way in which the watch exercises constraint. The design is considered a dress watch, which comes down to the slimmer profile and minimalist appearance. But as with so many things in the watch world, the rules about who, where and when someone can wear a timepiece are constantly being rewritten.

Given the cult following the Baignoire has received, the exclusive few who are fortunate enough to call themselves owners of this style aren’t just restricting themselves to wearing the watch during formal occasions; they're wearing it peeking out from the cuff of a polished top or stacked with another Cartier signature.

Which Celebrities Wear the Cartier Baignoire?

Cartier’s most ostensible promoters have been those at the forefront of style, and the Baignoire is no different. However, as this watch is a quieter display of taste and elegance, the celebrity sightings require a little more deft to identify. For instance, French actress and musician Lou Doillon has tactfully been wearing one since receiving a Baignoire as an 18th birthday present from her mother, Jane Birkin.

Kendall Jenner has often accessorised her "stealth wealth" ensembles with the design too, eschewing the oft louder and more showy approach to fashion taken by her famous sisters.

Elle Fanning, who recently became an ambassador for the Parisian House, has also made the Baignoire an indispensable part of her press-tour wardrobe for her latest project, Sentimental Value. Whilst promoting the movie at the Cannes Film Festival on the Côte d'Azur and the London Film Festival in the English capital, Fanning showed us that choosing between an accessory that doubles as both a timepiece and a piece of jewellery is actually the most opulent thing you could wear.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Cartier Baignoire has also garnered a fanbase with men interested in participating in Cartier mania without wearing something as easily identifiable. Paul Mescal wore one to the global premiere of Gladiator II in Australia, whilst The Beatles' rhythm guitarist, George Harrison, was famously gifted one by the band’s manager, Brian Epstein. (Given this connection, there’s no doubt that the Cartier Baignoire will make an appearance in Sam Mendes’ upcoming quartet of biopics on the legendary Liverpudlian musicians.)

How Much Is the Cartier Baignoire Watch?

This detail, in particular, is perhaps the most appealing thing about the Cartier Baignoire. It’s neither just a singular watch nor a bracelet, but miraculously both, making it better than the sum of its parts. So, how much would a Cartier Baignoire watch set you back?

Prices for the style begin at £7000 for a mini model with a black varnished calfskin strap, and can reach £98,000 for a style set on a rhodium-finish white gold with 1026 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 6.39 carats. On the resale market, however, styles start at £5000 for vintage and pre-loved iterations.

Is The Cartier Baignoire Watch Worth It?

It might seem that Cartier Baignoire pandemonium has reached fever pitch, but according to the experts, the desire for this style shows no sign of dissipating. "I think that it's just gotten more popular, and because it is a vintage design, it has that staying power," says Wallner. As she puts it, "I don't think it's just a trend—it's going to be one of the 'canon' watches."

Without further ado, keep scrolling below to shop the Cartier Biagnoire.

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We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

If you're after the best chic watches, then you, my friend, have stumbled upon the right article.

There are accessories you throw on without thinking, and then there are those that finish a look—shoes that change your stance, earrings that catch the light beautifully and watches that somehow make even the simplest outfit feel thought-through. For me, it's the latter that always grabs my attention. There's something incredibly intentional about someone who wears a watch. A watch is no longer worn solely for the sake of telling the time, but rather for the quiet confidence it adds to the wearer's wrist. As such, the best chic watches have always stood out to me.

My mum, a lifelong luxury jewellery and watch fanatic, introduced me to the world of timepieces at an early age. I vividly remember her slipping on a classic Cartier watch before heading out for dinner, the metal links subtly shifting against her wrist as she picked up her glass or fastened her coat. It was never showy, but it always made an impact. That fascination stayed with me, and as an editor who now spends most of my days combing through runway images, new-in sections and street style galleries, watches are still the accessory I zero in on first.

Historically, women's watches were treated more like decorative jewellery—tiny, almost impractical, dainty things that adorned the wrist more like a charm than a tool. But that perception has shifted dramatically. Over time, watches became statements of autonomy and style—a symbol of taste, sophistication and sometimes, power; and through time, each generation has worn them differently.

Now, millennials tend to gravitate towards chic investment-worthy designs, whilst Gen Z is taking a more eclectic approach. The younger generation's current obsession with "cosplaying" wealth (a trend that romanticises old-money aesthetics) has seen them adopt watches traditionally worn by older generations, flipping the narrative. Think a sleek gold bracelet-watch worn with a vintage rugby shirt and DIY beaded jewellery. It's ironic, it's fun and it makes the best chic watches feel relevant again.

We also saw a strong focus on watches on the spring/summer 2025 runways. At Saint Laurent, boxy gold timepieces peeked out from under sharply tailored suits, whilst at Miu Miu, playful coloured straps added unexpected contrast to preppy pleated skirts. Even Off-White, known for its streetwear roots, embraced classic silhouettes in silver and steel. Whether worn solo or stacked with bracelets (as seen at Chanel), there was no missing the message: watches are very much back—and they're being styled in increasingly modern, unexpected ways.

Of course, Cartier and Rolex are icons for a reason, but more accessible brands are catching up fast. I've spotted polished, square-faced styles at Tissot and refined leather straps at La Californienne that wouldn't look out of place in a luxury boutique. The key? Knowing what to look for. And if you're on the hunt for the best chic watches right now, the five styles below are the ones I keep seeing on editors, fashion friends and stylish, in-the-know people. Whether you're building your first grown-up wardrobe or want to invest in a piece that will carry you from work meetings to weekend markets, these watches are more than just accessories.

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1. Cartier Panthère

Style Notes: There's a reason the Cartier Panthère has remained iconic since the '80s. It's quietly powerful, unmistakably elegant and carries a kind of fashion clout that doesn't scream for attention. It's also the first luxury watch I ever noticed on someone, specifically how it elevated their outfit. These days, I spot it on women who aren't just stylish but considered; the sort of women who live in pressed white shirts and have their tailor on speed dial.

The beauty of the Panthère is how wearable it is across generations. You'll see it on a grandmother who has worn it every day for decades and keeps it pristine, and on a 25-year-old who stacks hers with beaded friendship bracelets. Whether you go for yellow gold or a steel-and-gold mix, it's one of the chicest and most timeless watches money can buy, and its jewellery-like quality makes it the perfect finishing touch.

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2. Chunky Watches

Style Notes: For a long time, chunky watches were considered overtly "masculine" or sporty, but lately, they've become part of the cool-girl uniform, especially when styled with something unexpected, like ballet flats or a frilly blouse—there's something about the contrast that feels current.

I'm seeing oversized watches everywhere, from the Paris shows to the Pret A Manger queue near the office. It's that deliberate nod to the Y2K revival, with a bit of "my dad had one like this in the '90s" energy. Whether you're leaning into a Casio digital or a statement metal cuff version, these are the best bold watches for those who want their accessories to talk a little louder.

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3. Leather-Strap Watches

Style Notes: There's something about a leather-strap watch that always feels smart. I think of them as the analogue of fashion—slightly slower, more thoughtful, always timeless. This style dominated the "clean girl" aesthetic and has stayed strong because it works with literally everything. Whether you're heading into the office or dressing up your Sunday coffee-date outfit, it adds just the right amount of structure. It's also worth noting that a lot of these styles come in beautifully soft leathers that age so well—they tell a story the longer you wear them.

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4. Silver Watches

Style Notes: Silver watches have quietly taken the lead in recent seasons. Whilst gold feels richer and more decorative, silver has a graphic clarity that's hard to beat. I think of it like the white shirt of watches—crisp, clean and able to tie an outfit together instantly. I've noticed more and more editors switching to silver styles, especially worn with black tailoring or cream denim. Plus, they pick up on the silver hardware trend we've been seeing across bags and belts on the runways. If you're drawn to a more neutral or monochrome colour palette, this is likely where your best chic watch lives.

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5. Coloured Watches

Style Notes: Coloured watches are a bit of a wild card, but that's what makes them great. Whether pastel pink or electric green, they bring a bit of joy to your wrist. I've seen them worn in unexpectedly grown-up ways too: with beige linen trousers and a white tee, or tucked under the cuff of a cashmere jumper. This season, runways have embraced bold hues again (see Ferragamo's rust tones and Bottega's rich greens), and accessories are following suit. These aren't novelty pieces; they're the best chic watches for injecting personality without going full maximalist.

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There are a few pieces in our wardrobes that we can truly cherish for a lifetime, but none more timeless than the Cartier Tank watch.

Of course, you can never go wrong with a pair of designer shoes that you save for a special occasion, a wool coat that you can rely on year after year, or maybe even a handbag so classic that it never falls out of favour.

Still, one of the items we're happiest to spend a little extra money on is jewellery, and a luxury watch is one of the most prominent purchases you can make when it comes to an investment buy that will never date.

Given that these aren't flash-in-the-pan impulse buys, you're going to want to invest in a brand and a style that you know will hold its value and look good for years to come.

The one name that keeps cropping up on the wrists of some of history's biggest style icons is Cartier. Scroll back through archival pictures and footage of the past century and you'll spot Cartier watches and jewellery on everyone from Princess Diana to Bella Hadid, Michelle Obama to Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Interestingly, Kim Kardashian purchased the late First Lady's exact gold Cartier Tank watch—a piece she was gifted in 1961, just months before her husband John F. Kennedy's assassination— by her brother-in-law Prince Stanislaw Radziwill—at Christie’s auction in 2017. The sale price? An eye-watering £304,495?

Indeed, this item has reigned at the forefront of fashion for over a century, and its popularity doesn't appear to be waning. (Perhaps it's even been a leader in the "quiet luxury" space long before the aesthetic had even been coined as such). These days, however, the Cartier Tank watch has evolved to include new colours, styles and shapes whilst staying true to its original design.

The Cartier Tank watch can trace its legacy back 100 years, making it one of the enduring timepiece icons of our time.

This decade alone, it appears the Cartier Tank watch has transcended its reputation and become one of the most desirable investment pieces of the 2020s. A report published by luxury resale platform Fashionphile revealed that searches for the timepiece doubled between 2023 and 2024 alone.

So, can you tell Cartier Tank if you spot one? Easy. The hallmarks include the curved link band, the rectangular case and a touch of Art Deco elegance. So if you're looking for an accessory that isn't ostentatious but still grabs attention, here is as good a place as any to start.

What Is the Cartier Tank Watch?

Inspired by the design of a military tank seen from above, the Tank watch was first designed in 1917 by Louis François Cartier, a distinct and bold move away from the popular round watch faces of the time. Instead, this delicate and linear shape references the feat of engineering behind the Renault tanks, mimicking the treads and cockpit of the vehicle's cabin.

Since its original design, you can now shop the Tank Must and Français, chunkier, metal-based styles, the Amércaine, which is a dressier, slimline style with a leather strap, and the newest and most pared-back style, the Tank Louis Cartier, which now also comes in rich burgundy and emerald green along with the classic colours.

Those with a real eye for engineering may also be drawn to the Cintrée and Asymétrique watches, as the exposed mechanisms (and angular shape, in the case of the Asymétrique) make these both high on the wish lists of watch aficionados.

How Much Does a Cartier Tank Watch Cost?

Given the level of design and craft that goes into Cartier watches, the Tank doesn't come cheap.

You can expect to find prices for the Cartier Tank watch ranging from just over £3000 for the more demure Tank Must styles to over £109,000 for the rarer Tank Cintrée watches, coming down to around £51,000 for the diamond-encrusted Tank Américaine.

Where Can I Buy a Cartier Tank Watch?

You can find the Tank watch in Cartier stores and online, as well as in a handful of other jewellers and fine jewellery retailers like Goldsmiths, NET-A-PORTER, Harrods, Selfridges and Watches of Switzerland.

To see and shop our edit of the best Cartier Tank watches, keep scrolling. After all, these chic timepieces come with a very fashionable (and royal) stamp of approval.

Shop the Cartier Tank Watch:

The day before Sabrina Carpenter’s "Feather” music video breaks the internet, the 24-year-old enters our Zoom call flush with apologies. She’s forgotten to redownload the app after deleting it to save on data (IYKYK), making her a few minutes late. "My phone has been out of storage for like all of eternity,” she declares. After settling into a spot on the floor between her coffee table and sofa—which is currently decorated with an Ariana Grande pillow, a keepsake from her stint as the artist’s opening act on the Dangerous Woman Tour back in 2017—she props her phone up, and we dive into a 90-minute conversation.

During this time, she’s refreshingly open about everything from the proven difficulties that come with growing up in the spotlight and what happens when the internet turns on you to how it feels to experience all of the emotional roller coasters that come with teenhood years later than your friends because you were simply too busy at 15 to join them. Her lyrics often live in the grey zone, leaving her fans to search for breadcrumbs alluding to their meaning or who they’re about, but her ultimate conclusions to my questions are surprisingly black-and-white. "This was the trajectory of my path,” she says. "I can’t change it now.”

Letting past regrets or grudges eat away at her doesn’t exactly fit into Carpenter’s busy schedule, which hasn’t eased up in more than a decade. When I ask the singer-songwriter and actress if she’s had a day off in 14 years, she laughs, saying, "You know, it sounds dramatic if I say no, but definitely not like a super day off.” For Carpenter, keeping her sights firmly set on her next move is precisely what’s gotten her to where she is today. "My brain works in ways where I’m like, ‘Oh, I want to do this. … It’s gonna take a long time … so I [have] to start now,’” she explains. "Even in those moments of free time, I feel like I’m always just visualising something in the future.” It’s this mindset that’s produced five studio albums, two Billboard Hot 100 hits, and three Platinum singles. "It’s a blessing and a curse,” she says. "I would love to be on a boat somewhere, though.”

Even with the heavy workload, nothing can take away the fact that Carpenter is living out her lifelong dreams. "There was never really a question. Music was always the thing as a child that made me feel like I understood more about life,” she says. As for convincing everyone to take her seriously, she attributes that to her conviction. "Not to be the person that brings up their astrology, but I’m a Taurus, and I think that might have something to do with the fact that I’ve always just been very driven. Some people like to call it stubborn. I like to say driven,” she explains.

Unlike other kids who woke up one morning wanting to be a pop star and a doctor or fashion designer or astronaut the next, Carpenter’s interests never varied. "I wouldn’t start things and not finish them. That wasn’t really my MO,” she says. "I ate, slept, [and] breathed singing and would be at the piano all day, or I’d be practicing or doing my warm-ups. Even if I had nothing to do with singing in the coming weeks or months, I would try doing it every day just to practice and get better.” All these years later, I get the impression that Carpenter is still this way—never quite satisfied. "The only way I’ll make it through this is if I never actually fully feel established because I’ll always just keep working,” she adds.

Carpenter was 12 when she first signed with Hollywood Records, a label under Disney Music Group. In addition to granting her the ability to record her own songs and perform them, it meant she’d be sent into boardrooms with men many times her senior telling her about her future. "That was probably the weirder thing that I had to experience from a really young age,” she says. 

Then there was social media, which nobody, Carpenter included, could have predicted would be such a requirement of the job when she started in 2009. Today, she sees it from two sides. "It’s heartwarming if you think about it in the way that it provides togetherness,” she says. "It’s scary if you think about it in the way that you’re like, ‘Oh, people think they know me from videos on the internet.’” For Carpenter, there are ups, and there are "down, down, down, downs” when it comes to social media and the role it plays in her career and personal life. That’s when she reminds herself just how fortunate she is. "I literally get to sing into a microphone. That’s my job,” she says. "It’s everything that I’ve always wanted. I’m really lucky that my childhood thing… I stuck with it, and, you know, we’re hand in hand through this.”

Writing her own songs also contributes to her calm and collected nature and her ability to move past any road bumps that have and will continue to arise as she navigates her life as Sabrina Carpenter: pop star. "I really feel like I disconnect and fall off the face of the Earth [when I’m making music],” she says. It’s through this process that she found her voice and fearless disposition. (She does admit to being "a sarcastic little snippy ass” since, well, forever, which is presumably why she’s never really been walked all over.)

It’s through music that Carpenter is able to turn off from the online world, where everyone has an opinion and heaps of time to share it. "Sometimes, I bang my head against a wall repeatedly,” she says of hate comments online. But at the same time, she can’t harp on them. She adds, "If someone says, ‘Oh, she’s ugly,’ what am I going to do with that? Okay, well, bummer. I have to just move on with my day, regardless of whether you think I’m ugly or not.” Sitting at her piano, no matter what the situation on hand may be, escape and resolution are only a few keys away. "It is so satisfying when you can take a negative situation in your life and turn it into a positive memory with a song,” she says.

As she’s gotten older, her music has evolved—getting more vulnerable and emotion driven. In 2021, the "Nonsense” singer left her longtime label to join Island Records, an organization that she says trusted her vision as an artist first and foremost. "I didn’t sit down with them and go, ‘This is the album that I’m making. It’s called EmaiIs I Can’t Send. It’s very blunt and very forward,’” she explains. "They didn’t know just as much as I was still figuring it out. But they had a lot of faith in what I was creating and let me experiment and create something really special.” 

Because of this freedom, Carpenter was able to speak her truths on the album without all the outside noise. "When you’re worried about [music] appealing to people and making sure that everyone likes it, I don’t know if you make anything that feels authentic,” she says. Putting out the album left Carpenter exposed. "[It is] borderline too personal,” she admits. But not once since its release in 2022, and subsequent deluxe edition that came out earlier this year, has she felt an ounce of regret. Being on the Emails I Can’t Send Tour and hearing the voices of her longtime fans singing along only reassured Carpenter that she’d made the right decision. 

Now, she’s performing those same songs in front of an even larger fan base: Swifties.

In June, Taylor Swift announced the first round of international shows for her record-breaking Eras Tour, revealing Carpenter as her opening act for the Mexico, Argentina, and Brazil dates. Carpenter will also return for Swift’s seven Australia and six Singapore shows. "I’m not gonna say I peed my pants because that sounds really graphic and maybe not sanitary, but I think it really just caught me off guard,” she says of hearing the news. "It was very much a childhood dream come true.” For her tour debut in Mexico City, Carpenter opened her performance with her first-ever YouTube upload, a video of her nine-year-old self singing Swift’s "Picture to Burn,” exhibiting just how long she’s looked up to the 12-time Grammy winner. "I still probably have not processed it if I’m being completely honest with you,” she says. 

The duo first met backstage at a show when Carpenter was 17 years old. "She had her cats with her,” she recalls. (Carpenter herself has two white British shorthairs at home, so their shared love of felines bonded them for life.) "I have older sisters, so if anything, it felt like that type of a relationship.” According to Carpenter, Swift’s support of her music has been significant, but perhaps more impactful has been the "All Too Well” singer’s championing of Carpenter as a human being. "To work with someone [who] cares about you as a person as well as an artist … that’s been the biggest gift for sure,” she says. Carpenter recently released a pared-down version of Swift’s 2012 track "I Knew You Were Trouble” on Spotify, with many on TikTok sharing how the cover made them completely reinterpret the song, a pop hit with deep lyrics. Carpenter chose to cover the track because of how similar the perspective is to "Feather,” the song Carpenter rereleased alongside "I Knew You Were Trouble.” Like her cover, "Feather” got the chilled-out treatment, making them a perfect match. Swift’s reaction to the cover was direct and to the point: "She nailed it.”

Despite her experience performing on the road, touring with Swift is a whole new ball game for Carpenter. "When you’re doing your own shows, you have this assurance [that the audience] is there for you,” she says. "They know the songs, they came to see you, and I feel very lucky in that sense that I’m like, ‘Whoa, I have this crowd of people that dedicated their Friday night to come sing these songs with me.’” On the Eras Tour, however, there’s a little more pressure for Carpenter to work the room. "I go into it with a little bit more excitement, being playful and just really singing and interacting with the crowd as much as I possibly can,” she says. "There’s so many of them—I can’t see them all.”

Her costumes, likewise, contribute to her energy onstage. "I want to feel as confident as humanly possible so I can be up there and not worry about what I’m doing,” she says. "It helps me perform better.” She ended up donning custom Swarovski-crystal minidresses by the Ukrainian brand Frolov, a favorite of Beyoncé for her own shows. She paired the dresses with her signature white go-go boots. "The go-go boots have been there for me in hard times,” she says. 

Fashion played a pivotal role in Emails I Can’t Send, more so than it did in any of her previous albums. "[The record], to me at least, feels like the first album cycle where I really felt like there was a style connection to the music,” she explains. "I haven’t always felt that way in the past because I was young and didn’t know who I was.” By getting to know herself better and finally gaining firsthand experience of the themes she’d long been singing about, everything just clicked. "This theme of hearts [is] sprinkled throughout the music and different visuals,” she says. "It made so much sense to me because [the album] was so deeply surrounded by this infatuation with love and the lack of love and [how it helped to shape] me into the person that I am right now.” Scrolling through her Instagram feed, the symbol is ubiquitous in her looks. "There have been a lot of little heart cutouts,” she says. "I’ve pretty much done it everywhere.”

Her style outside of the album has also seen a shift as she’s learned more about who she is. "The things I feel really confident in now, maybe five years ago I probably would have never worn [them], but that’s the beautiful thing about evolving with fashion,” she says. Though she’s most known for her hyper-romantic aesthetic laced with soft pastel shades, micro hemlines, and ethereal fabrics, Carpenter’s found herself experimenting outside of that look. (Don’t worry—it’s not going away entirely anytime soon.) "I’m constantly exploring and figuring [things] out,” she says. One look at her recent ensembles from Paris Fashion Week—where she wore a runway look from Schiaparelli’s F/W 23 collection to the French couturier’s S/S 24 show and a completely sheer black slip dress to Givenchy—is proof enough of that. 

Her stylist Jason Bolden—whose client list also includes Yara Shahidi, Storm Reid, and Vanessa Hudgens—has contributed significantly to that exploration. The duo first teamed up when Carpenter was just 17 around the same time that her breakout Disney show Girl Meets World wrapped. "The first thing he put me in was a red Loewe dress,” she recalls. "That was so out of left field for me because I don’t think anyone else would have done that at that time in my life.” Just then, she knew he was perfect for the job. "We started with taking some of these more daring fashion risks that I probably would have never seen on the rack and been like, ‘That’s the one for me,’” she says. "He was really good at pushing me in those ways.” They’ve been together ever since through each of her different musical and style eras, collaborating seamlessly to communicate her ever-changing story via clothes. "It sounds so silly to say that so much of my life is the little outfits I wear, but it kind of is,” she says.

Carpenter’s style is but one of many aspects of her life that revolve around music. She launched a second perfume a few months ago—Sweet Tooth: Caramel Dream—which she describes simply as an emotional extension of her music. She’s preparing to head back out on tour with Swift this month, followed by multiple shows on the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour. She is releasing a new holiday EP titled fruitcake on November 17. And yes, she has plans for a sixth album. "There’s definitely more coming,” she says with an air of mystery. Everything she does remains firmly planted in her singular childhood dream. "I sometimes look at that as such a phenomenal thing to think about,” she says. "Why, for some reason, you just have something, this idea in your head when you’re put on this Earth and how it happens, you have no idea, but you have this blind faith and just wake up every day and make it happen.” Perhaps that explains the black-and-white manner in which she deals with those areas of her life that fall outside of her control. When she’s needed it most, music has come through for her, stepping in and helping her overcome every obstacle life’s thrown her way. Why question its powers now? 

Photographer: Dennis Leupold

Stylist and Editorial Director: Lauren Eggertsen

Hairstylist: Scott King at The Only Agency

Makeup Artist: Allan Avendaño at A-Frame Agency

Manicurist: Zola Ganzorigt at The Wall Group

Set Designer: Ali Gallagher at 11th House Agency

Producer: Luciana De La Fe

Video Director: Stephanie Romero

Cinematographer: Amusement Productions

Video Editor: Collin Hughart

Sound Mixer: Jason Flaster

Executive Director of Entertainment: Jessica Baker

VP of Creative: Alexa Wiley

VP of Social: MacKenzie Green

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear US.

Many of us associate the early noughties with the rise of the It bag, but in reality, the concept of the designer handbag as one of the more conspicuous status symbols was introduced many decades before. The iconic Hermès Birkin dates back to the 1980s, Chanel's 2.55 to 1955 and Gucci's Jackie to 1961. Tried and true, these classics remain untouchable today. But the difference was that in the Y2K era, these "must-have" bags—which, back then, were all bells and whistles—changed with the turn of each season. Although many an editor still shares a fondness for Mulberry's original Alexa or Chloé's instantly recognisable Paddington, even the wealthiest of the fashion elite began to tire of such an expensive, exhausting and wasteful cycle. What followed was an extended period of Phoebe Philo–led quiet luxury and the kind of understated leather goods that only those in the know would notice. Logos, hardware and fussy design features were out, and subtle, practical styles came in.

"Understated, relaxed items crafted with exceptional quality will always be important to the luxury client," says Sabrina Cannon, chief sales officer at Threads Styling. "Clients are definitely more considered in the way they shop. The spending power is still there, and investment in luxury is still big, but it's exactly that, an investment." And so, in 2023, we find ourselves in a zone where the best of both worlds can co-exist to great effect. Sure, you can seek out the most trend-driven handbags if you want, but there are plenty of timeless, easy styles to carry that still come with all of the pizzazz and wow of something fresh. 

From Saint Laurent to Celine, Cartier to Bottega Veneta, the new wave of key designer bags for spring 2023 is, in fact, full of styles that could last a lifetime and feel suitable for everyday wear. There is an ease that brands are aware they need to weave into the very DNA of these designs, and the bags are meant to work hard for the money. You should be able to use them without complication, with multiple outfits and for varying occasions. Most of all, these bags need to fit into your existing looks rather than compete against them. "Luxury consumers are increasingly opting to search for items that work with what they already own over buying something new or on-trend," explains Erica Wright, founder and CEO at Sourcewhere, the fashion-sourcing app used by countless industry people and A-listers.

Following a deep dive into the handbags that our audience has engaged most with across the luxury space, there are some clear themes at play. First, neutral hues are king, which perhaps comes as no surprise when we know that tan, black, brown and grey styles provide plenty of flexibility for combining with different looks. "Our customers have also been gravitating towards a more muted colour palette than in recent seasons favouring suede materials and soft, earthy tones such as browns, beiges and touches of khaki—a shift which was prevalent in A/W 23 pre-collections too," confirms Romilly Proctor, senior buyer at MATCHESFASHION.

Second, the chosen styles for readers to invest in are often anti-trend and made up of bona fide classics, like smart shoulder bags, simple leather totes or easy crossbody bags you can throw on every day—all are easy to carry in multiple ways with different-length straps and are roomy enough to fit in the essentials. Logos, clasps and details are at a minimum, with the occasional monogram creeping in in its subtlest form, such as a beige Gucci GG-woven canvas. 

Keep scrolling to discover 2023's key bag styles in more detail. And remember: An It bag isn't just for one season but a lifetime!

Gucci has no shortage of key styles: Marmont, Disco, Horsebit, Ophidia… I could be here all day. But one particular silhouette is perhaps the most important and coveted of them all: Jackie 1961. Originally created in, you guessed it, 1961 and inspired by Jackie Onassis, the Jackie was reintroduced back in 2020 when Alessandro Michele was first at the helm of Gucci's creative direction. The designer has now left the business, and the debut line from new appointment Sabato De Sarno will arrive in September. Whatever changes occur at the top, there's no denying that the Jackie will remain current and on the arms of fashion's leading lights. 

Jackie returns yet again in a subtly tweaked form for spring 2023: The bag still features the signature lock and curved-yet-structured cut, but you'll find different sizes and a variety of colours and finishes as well as adjustable straps so you can carry it as a neat shoulder bag or with a longer strap for a crossbody option. It's the small iteration in a hardy grain leather that appealed to our fashion team the most thanks to the fact it is deceptively capacious yet looks really smart, which makes it the perfect option for a diary packed full of different events. You can go one step smaller with a mini and also size up with a large, depending on your bag needs.

Loewe's Paseo—in both its jumbo and scaled-down forms—is a sure bet for the many fashion purists out there who favour minimalism above all else. Loewe and Creative Director Jonathan Anderson's schtick for cool handbags that stand the test of time is second to none. The Puzzle, first introduced in 2014, still makes hearts beat faster, as does the Flamenco, the Hammock and the Cushion… The list goes on. All feature design details that are complex, considered and incredibly complicated to reproduce (hence the very few "homages" you'll find to Loewe bags on the high street), and the Paseo is no exception. 

When translated from Spanish, paseo essentially means a leisurely stroll, something that one could do easily with this bag because it has been expertly crafted to be ultra lightweight despite its spacious dimensions. Made from super-supple nappa leather, the runway-featured bag comes in many a tempting hue, from burgundy and camel to pistachio and acid yellow, as well as versions that feature a detailed chain handle instead of the leather piped strap. My favourite? It's a tie between the Warm Desert pictured here and the Burgundy. I predict we'll see a lot of this delightful style over the coming fashion month period, but don't let that hype moment fool you: It will remain on the arms of fashion people for years to come.

Anthony Vaccarello's Saint Laurent continues its dominance over the industry as we get into the swing of 2023, influencing everything from the resurgence of maxi hemlines to the sudden desire many of us now have for an enormous quilted shopping tote—you can blame the celebrity-adored Icare, which is permanently sold out all over the globe, making it Lyst's hottest product of Q4 last year.

The Icare will undeniably continue to be popular this year, but I'd like to draw your attentions to another handbag style family at the fashion house that has the potential to provide you with a key style you'll wear on repeat for many seasons to come: Saint Laurent's Solferino range centres on sophisticated satchel styles in a variety of colours and finishes, including a range of quilted finishes that I think will be highly sought-after. Black-and-white versions play into the archive and offer something neutral without being too plain. The YSL lock features a little catch that requires you to rotate the letters away from the bottom corner of the L—it's a quirky detail to consider instead of a simple magnet fastening underneath the flap. 

Does Prada's Moon bag look familiar to you? Well, the eagled-eyed Miuccia superfans out there might recognise this style from 2002, when it was first created at the Italian fashion house. Following the success of Prada's other Re-edition pieces, such as the nylon bags that have been wildly popular over the last few years, there is yet more from the archive that feels right for today. But really, this has always been the magic of a Prada purchase—totally trend-less (despite the fact the brand basically sets the trends). You'll find that items from across the decades manage to feel relevant and work together.

The Moon is a bijou grab bag with a top handle, a slightly padded leather exterior, a chunky buckle and, of course, the signature ton-sur-ton triangle logo. It is smaller scale than many of the other designer styles featured here, but not everyone is into all-but-the-kitchen-sink totes. If you're the kind of person who likes to go about your day with only the bare necessities in tow, the Moon is a very enjoyable solution.

Although you will find shades such as black and tan, it's the offbeat hues that feel the most Prada, in my opinion, and they're worth exploring even if they feel out of your wheelhouse. For all the basic outfit formulas one can rely upon, a joyful bag in an unexpected colour will always add a layer of interest. We couldn't help but fall for this chartreuse—technically speaking, Citreon Green—leather iteration, and you'd be surprised by just how many other colours it works with. Expect to see this style all over fashion month and beyond.

Celine's Conti not only signals the return of the supersized tote but also the styling notion of carrying them in the crook of one's arm. For the S/S 23 collection, Creative, Artistic and Image Director Hedi Slimane flourished many of the models with a slick Conti toted in a way that was reminiscent of the noughties It-girl era. Walking to a Libertines track from 2004 and wearing the sort of relaxed bohemian outfits Kate Moss and Co. would've chosen at the time, the Conti was the perfect foil to a pared-back version of this era's wardrobe. 

But the Conti isn't all flashback and nostalgia. It also works for today. Considering just how useful they are in a handbag collection, there are few grown-up totes along these lines that have been given the attention and love they perhaps deserve from design houses. First up, the range of hues ticks all the bases: tan, black, chocolate suede and more. The interior contains multiple additional pockets so that the contents of your bag won't wildly rattle around. The belt fastening is functional rather than solely decorative, and it makes this roomy shopper a secure option for city folks. Although the leather is of the finest quality—it has been meticulously selected, don't you know—you shouldn't be afraid of the fact that eventually battering it in (as is de rigueur according to data from The RealReal via Coveteur) could make it an even more charming heirloom piece. 

This particular style is currently unavailable online but you can shop at Celine’s London flagship (40 New Bond Street).

Bottega Veneta's Cassette bag was first introduced in 2019 as a modern, exaggerated take on the brand's signature Intrecciato weave and became a street style hit almost overnight. The rectangular crossbody satchel joined the brand's new-guard line-up as a permanent fixture alongside other key bag styles such as the Pouch, Mini Jodie and the Loop. All share some commonalities: sumptuous leathers, exciting hues and quirky details that set them apart from more affordable brands that simply cannot execute to this standard. 

What's new for the Cassette this season is its finish. The Cassette Foulard—aka the French word fashion people use for a silk scarf—indicates the interesting technique that has been applied to this bag's woven leather finish. The textural, pinch effect adds a further layer of ASMR pleasure to paper-craft leather, making this handbag not only a practical piece of equipment but a really satisfying one too. What works so beautifully here is that the silhouette of the design is entirely classic, but the rendering is completely new and unusual. The Foulard, which has already been chosen by both Dua Lipa and Margot Robbie, comes in a range of more daring colours that you'd associate with the new era of the Italian fashion house, such as pool turquoise, avocado, a punchy sunburst orange and gold metallic. 

The Cassette Foulard is available in medium and small sizes, as well as a similar version that features a '90s-style top handle (rather than a crossbody strap) called the Brick Cassette.

Introducing Chloé's Edith for 2023, a re-edited, ultra-luxe version of the brand's popular equestrian-inspired handbag range. Under the creative lead of Gabriela Hearst, the new iteration is minimalistic in design, featuring a rectangular silhouette that is more structured than its previous, freer form. What does remain is the brand's signature top-stitching to add texture and interest to a clean handbag that could work seamlessly into many a professional's wardrobe.

Pictured here is the medium Mocha Brown tote version, which also features leather-wrapped handles (great for extra grip), a top buckle fastening for extra security and a detachable crossbody strap. It is big and roomy, ideal for someone who wants a smart style that can hold a work tablet, notepad or other daily must-haves, for example. Chloé's Edith range extends to this style but scaled down into a medium-sized zip-top version, a shoulder bag featuring a utilitarian pocket on the front, a cross-body pouch and even a collaboration with Barbour using the brand's signature wax-cotton fabric to create a laid-back kind of tote.

Cartier's edit of luxury leather goods is purposefully concise, comprising only a handful of precisely crafted, ultra-classic designs that will undoubtedly remain in the maison's collection for the foreseeable, therefore becoming iconic, collectable and well worth holding on to for the next generation. In that family, alongside the Panthère and the Guirlande, is the Double C de Cartier—an elegant selection of handbags, jewellery and more that puts the brand's serif-style monogram front and centre.

This particular pale-pink style is the Mini Model Shoulder—an elegant flap-front satchel that features an adjustable single strap, which can be doubled up to be worn as a shoulder bag. The enamel double-C clasp can be pinched at the two bottom corners to open up the middle parting and fastened back into place with a satisfying click. Unlike some other box bags on the bijou end of the spectrum, the interior has been carefully designed to feature three separate compartments, one flat pocket, one signature pocket and a removable mirror. What makes this exact version even more interesting is the use of two ever-so-slightly different shades of calf leather, lending the already graphic bag a 3D effect from different angles. The delightful coral, pictured here, will be available in March, but there are other similar options, such as the pink, that you can shop below.

And don't forget there is the option to add embossing to your chosen style either with or without foil—chic!

Creative Director Matthew M. Williams's latest Givenchy line riffs on the biker-chic style favoured by Parisians, so it's not a surprise to find a useful everyday bag at the core of his message. We actually first spied the Voyou for A/W 22, but it was when Bella Hadid took to the runway wearing S/S 23's debut look—a denim bralette, maxi skirt and matchy-matchy denim Voyou—that things really stepped up a gear.

Adorning the Voyou is a smattering of hardware details that hark back to moto references, but what I really liked about this metalwork was that it is inclusive of both gold and silver in the same bag—meaning you can easily match this to your jewellery and/or watch without experiencing that clash that can so often come with accessories. As far as ease goes, thanks to its slouchy V-form; long, chuck-it-over-your-body straps; and the overlapping opening, this is perhaps the most casual of all the styles in this article. 

There is certainly a hint of the Y2K era with the Voyou (as there is across much of the It-bag landscape this year), but I think we can all agree this is a much chicer and more restrained take, especially when you opt in for simple hues such as black. Saying that, if you want something punchier, the Voyou also comes in hot pink, crackled silver, lime green and many more vibrant shades. 

There’s no denying that at Who What Wear we love the French women style. French women have mastered effortless elegance like no other–and whilst the clichè pieces such a breton tops, berets and red lipstick are all staples, there are others things in their arsenal that we look to too. Neat blazers, cute cardigans and expensive-looking denim (that always somehow seems to fit as if it was made for the very person wearing it) are other must-have wardrobe essentials. But there’s one small addition that people often overlook: Watches. 

I’ve been looking to invest in a watch for a while as I have a big birthday coming up and thought this would be the perfect excuse to treat myself. The thing is though, it’s a tough decision to make, because whilst I may change a coat, a pair of shoes or a bag depending on my outfit, the occasion or the weather, the watch I buy really needs to pair with everything. Also, despite being a shopping expert, I’m admittedly a bit of a watch novice.

Which is why I’m looking to the style set that are known for their timeless capsule wardrobes as a guide. I don’t want a statement piece or a fleeting accessory ‘du jour,’ I want a forever timepiece that will go with everything. So, from Camille Charrière to Julie Berard, I paid close attention to the wrists of some of the French girls whose style I admire the most and collated some key style lessons when watch shopping. 

1. In France, Cartier is King. 

Style Notes: When considering French-made watches, the brand that always comes to mind is Cartier. In fact, this isn't limited to France or with French women–with Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa, Gwyneth Paltrow and many, many more having be known to sport the Cartier Panthère, Tank and Ballon Bleu styles over the years. 

2. Classic Metals Rule

Style Notes: Don't have a Cartier budget? Perhaps you want to try a new style but don't want to invest too heavily? No problem–there are so many affordable brands offering elegant designer-looking watches that have the same traditional silver/gold setting. From Citizen to Rotary and Tissot, to Instagram favourites, Charlie Paris and Daniel Wellington, there are plenty out there that prove you don't have to break the bank to stay on time.

3. Parisians Love Vintage

Style Notes: It's certainly no secret that Paris is home to some of the best vintage shops, and Parisians are some of the most experienced when it comes to second-hand sourcing. If you're looking for something unique, vintage may be the best option. From designer to lesser-known brands, Goldsmiths have an excellent vintage selection, and what's more is it's sustainable too!

4. Think Less Statement, More Understated

Style Notes: When it comes to French style–and I really can't stress this enough–less is always more. This same rule applies for watches. A timepiece doesn't need to be encrusted with diamonds to shine, nor does it a coloured face and pattern. Don't go too oversized, rather something that fits your wrist well and compliments your skin tone. The idea is to own something that blends in, or really ties together, everything else you're wearing. 

5. Plain Leather Straps Are Cute Too

Style Notes: Whilst many look to silver, gold and stainless steel link straps, leather is also a popular choice, and one I personally think is more classic. Black leather with gold hardware is a favourite, but silver and tan leather are equally chic. Again, we're talking dainty rather than chunky.

6. For More Fashion-Forward Pieces, Look to Designer Names

Style Notes: With luxury watches, you can either opt for brands that specialise in timepieces, or high-end designers that offer them as part of their wider accessories collection. Whilst some will tell you those that specialise in watches will have better accuracy, quality and technology, and luxury houses will offer have the fashion-forward 'look', nowadays you can expect the same level of accuracy and quality of material anywhere with a high price tag. And if you want to go all out on the French style, then it makes sense to invest in French brands– so look to Chanel, Dior, Hermès, Breguet and so on. 

Next Up: Trust Me: These Are the Luxury Accessories That Are Actually Worth the Money

I recently visited Paris with Cartier to meet Mathilde Laurent, the in-house perfumer for the storied brand, to visit the exhibition OSNI2 The Scented Myth. The event sees Cartier's iconic Panthère fragrance brought to life through light, sound and scent. It's an immersive 360 experience of how perfume can make us feel, tapping into all of the senses. The scented installation (which features perfume falling from the ceiling, illuminated with Cartier's panther motif) really is the meeting of art and fragrance.

"In this installation, I wanted to awaken people to the pleasure leading with your five senses," says Laurent. "Scent is what people forget or are not conscious of—but it's the most important sense. It is the only one which is directly going to centres in the brain related to instinct, emotion and memories." In other words, wearing and experiencing fragrance can help us tap into a mindset, which is why many of us might choose a perfume to suit our mood or circumstances on any given day.

Naturally, when I knew I would be sitting down with Laurent to discuss all things fragrance, you can best believe that I had several questions on the world of fragrance. After all, who better to ask than someone who knows everything there is to know about perfume?

Lately, our readers have been interested in how to smell expensive. We all seem to want to indulge in the little luxuries in life, but what does that smell like, exactly? Are there perfumes that smell more luxurious than others, and how does the way we wear our perfume affect how we are perceived? Of all the categories in beauty, it seems that fragrance ties closely into this notion.

So I put my questions to Laurent, and I've shared her insights below, including the common mistakes we're making when we choose to wear our fragrance. Spoiler: Everything you know about perfume will be turned on its head.

1. Smelling expensive is just a notion.

"Luxury is really a notion," says Laurent. There is no real way to smell expensive, because that will be open to interpretation to everyone. Sure, a viral perfume that everyone is coining expensive-smelling (and the dupes that inevitably follow them) may lure us in, but it can loose its lustre when it's suddenly worn by everyone.

"I could answer that a luxurious scent is one that has never been smelt before," she says. "But for me, what is a real luxury in perfumery is to be able to get the joy of discovering something new. Too many perfumes are too similar to others, and I’m not sure we get a lot of pleasure from them. My feeling is that these perfumes just make us smell good socially." While it is nice to get compliments on your perfume from others, it shouldn't be the sole reason for choosing it—which brings us on to mistake number two. Whether you like a men's perfume or your grandmother's perfume, what matters is that you like it.

2. Don't choose a perfume just for compliments.

Who doesn't love being complimented on their fragrance? It's a nice feeling, but when you're choosing a scent, it should be because you like it—even if no one else does. "This installation was originally meant to be called tainted aura," explains Laurent. "When you receive compliments when you wear a perfume, it’s not really about the scent; it’s your aura," she says. In other words, it's about how you wear the scent, not the scent wearing you.

"An aura is what you are radiating, the perfume and yourself," she says. "If you wear a perfume that you really love and brings you joy, then you feel really exceptional and confident it changes how you radiate, it changes your aura. This is what perfume can bring. It’s totally different from other accessories because you really carry it, it carries you, you wear it on your skin—it’s you," she says. It’s exactly how you wear the fragrance and how you choose it for yourself, without consideration for what others could think.

3. You're wearing too much perfume.

I'll put my hands up—I'm guilty of this one, especially when it comes to topping up perfume throughout the day. "What’s important is to not apply too much perfume," says Laurent. "I always advise that the first day of wearing a new perfume, you apply the perfect dose. You do four sprays, never add more. Even if you don’t smell it, other people smell it. Because it’s the best way to invade others!" Instead, she recommends experimenting with how you wear your perfume. "I will often advise to apply perfume before you shower. The alchemy of water and perfume in the shower is wonderful," she says. "You can add perfume after your shower, and you will have a perfectly refined way to wear your perfume."

4. Placement is key.

We've all heard that you should apply perfume to your pulse points, like your wrists and neck, right? Turns out that in Laurent's perfumery training at Versailles, that isn't a rule as such. "They are rather recent rules," says Laurent. "I often say that freedom is more important than rules. If you like to perfume your neck or your hair, because when they move it is also very pleasant, you can. You can perfume your knees. It’s instinctive and has to be instinctive. You can follow the rules if you like to feel secure, but you can also invent your own way to wear perfume."

And if you really want your scent to last all day, she recommends spraying on your clothes, rather than on your skin. "If you want to get the best of your perfume I would perfume your clothes because as the skin is warmer, the perfume will always evaporate quicker," she says. "To perfume your clothes is a good way to smell it and to keep it on for longer."

5. Don't top up with an eau de parfum.

It can be annoying when your fragrance seems to disappear throughout the day, but avoid dousing yourself in a heavy eau de parfum. "If you don’t smell your perfume very well—everyone gets used to their perfume—then I would advise to buy it also in the eau de toilette version and spray sometimes, just one spray, to refresh during the day," says Laurent, which avoids the risk of overwhelming your nose and the ones around you. "This can be for your own personal pleasure and to feel confident, you can spray it on a handkerchief or a little on the wrist to smell it for yourself so you’re sure you’re not bothering other people around you." 

She also recommends choosing a single-note perfume to give your fragrance a boost during the day. "These are very pure, simple and fresh scents, and you can add them on any perfume you wear," she says, recommending both Cartier's L'Heure Brillante (£250) and Eau de Toilette Pur Kinkan Les Epures de Parfum (£250). "It creates something very pleasant, and you feel fresh and confident for the afternoon or evening," she says.

6. Don't wear perfume to dinner.

"There are occasions when people think they must put perfume on. It’s really funny, in fact. Then, very often, they put a lot of perfume on because they say, 'I'm going out!'" says Laurent. And you'll know how someone else's overwhelming fragrance can be distracting. "When you go to the restaurant or you go to the theatre, don’t put perfume on. Because when you got to the restaurant, it is really to appreciate what you are going to eat," says Laurent. "If you are too perfumed, you will not appreciate what you will eat. The restaurant is a spectacle for the mouth, so you need to have your mouth free of perfume," she says. "If you put perfume on before going to the restaurant or theatre, it should be very light, or apply it before your shower so that you are very delicately perfumed with a perfume you love but very very lightly."

7. Be wary of layering your perfumes.

While Laurent is not against layering, she recommends following a few precautions. "I would say that it is a risky business. It’s like an extreme sport—very dangerous!" she says. "If you have a very heavy fragrance, then just add a sporadic note, something very simple. For example, if you have an oriental fragrance, you could add another vanilla note if it’s very simple or a sporadic note, as it will correspond," she says. "What would be really awful would be to mix perfumes that are really composed and complex composition with another complex composition of two different families. Then that becomes what we call in France 'one-thousand flowers.'" If in doubt, skip layering altogether or choose your notes wisely.

8. Being too narrow-minded when choosing your signature scent.

Finding your signature scent can be a tall order, but Laurent has some tips to find something that is uniquely yours. "I would advise to be very open to newness and maybe new shops or little shops, smaller brands or people that can help you to choose," she says. "The idea is to discover perfume brands that you don’t know. If you have not found your signature fragrance, and you are searching for something rare, you have to go towards rare brands and rare perfumes that you have never smelt," she advises. "So go smell what you have never smelt yet."

9. Buying perfume online.

There is nothing worse than buyer's remorse, so Laurent has some tips if you're planning to blind-purchase a perfume online. "I would say do not trust the notes that you can read," she says. "It’s a habit to mention natural ingredients, but everybody knows that there are not only natural ingredients. So if you see that there is rose and vetiver, it can smell like rose, but it is not necessarily what you will find systematically," she says. "You should pay attention more to images that are proposed, the text, or other information, which are important. At Cartier, we really try to give true information and all information that we are creating for the graphics for the perfume visually and trying to stay very true so people can have an idea of the ambiance, the textures and the colours that could be associated with our perfume to help their choice."

Cartier's OSNI2 is running from December 1 to 11, 2022 at Esplanade des Invalides 2 Rue Robert Esnault-Pelterie, 75007, Paris. Book your tickets here.

Shop the best Cartier perfumes:

Up Next, The Perfumers Behind These Luxe Scents Also Made These Affordable Fragrances

Name something better than spotting Meghan Markle and Prince Harry on a hot date in New York City—I'll wait. The couple, who descended upon NYC because of Prince Harry's role as the keynote speaker during the United Nations General Assembly on Monday, followed up the event with a dinner out at Locanda Verde in TriBeCa, where Markle debuted yet another one of her many winning looks.

Just like she did for her daytime ensemble, the Duchess of Sussex opted for black, wearing a sleek, strapless jumpsuit by Gabriela Hearst. Markle added her go-to Cartier Tank watch, strappy Aquazzura heels and a dark-red braided take on fashion's most ubiquitous handbag, Bottega Veneta's Pouch bag. Her date looked equally polished, albeit slightly more casual, choosing a navy-blue linen button-down, matching trousers and grey sneakers. 

Scroll down to see the pair's after-dark looks. And while you're at it, check out a few jumpsuits for your next soirée. 

On Meghan Markle: Gabriela Hearst Vicky Jumpsuit (£4000); Aquazzura Bow Tie 105 Suede Sandals (£500); Cartier Tank Française 25mm Small 18-Karat Gold Watch (£20500); Bottega Veneta Large Intrecciato Leather Pouch (£2650)

Shop chic jumpsuits:

This story was originally published on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.

Coming up: First-date outfit ideas that feel oh so easy.

A luxury watch is one of the biggest investments you can make, so it's an item that requires careful research. When it comes to fine jewellery and watches, one of the most iconic brands is the heritage French label, Cartier.

If you look closely at any picture of a celebrity, royal or world leader over the past 50 years, you're likely to spot a Cartier watch. Michelle Obama, Muhammad Ali, John F. Kennedy, Madonna, Andy Warhol, the Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Diana and many more have all worn a Cartier watch. And one of the styles you're most likely to find on their arm is the maison's Panthère de Cartier watch.

What is the Panthère de Cartier Watch?

Cartier is regarded as one of the first to create a "jewellery watch" when the Panthère de Cartier watch first debuted in 1983. The style has that discernible '80s fashion feel thanks to the flexible gold bracelet strap and the square watch face with rounded corners. It is named after the panther, which is the emblem of the house, as the slinky chain resembles the movement of the animal as it prowls.

Who Has Worn the Panthère de Cartier Watch?

The original watch was popular throughout the '80s and '90s and had a firm celebrity following. Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jane Fonda wore it throughout the decade. The watch was then relaunched seven years ago in 2017 with subtle updates to the design, such as a whiter dial and tighter links in the bracelet, which the house said was done to further accentuate the jewellery aspects of the design. The watch looks particularly amazing paired with gold hoops and chain jewellery for the full archival feel. The relaunched watch has been seen on a long list of celebrities' wrists, such as Dua Lipa, Sienna Miller, Anne Hathaway, Kirsten Dunst and Kylie Jenner.

How Much Does a Panthère de Cartier Watch Cost?

Given the level of craftspersonship and quality that goes into creating a Cartier watch, The Panthère de Cartier doesn't come cheap, and you can expect to find prices ranging from just over £4,000 for the simplest styles to anywhere up to £100,000 for the rarer Panthère de Cartier watches. I've kept a close eye on the cost of Cartier's Panthère de Cartier watch over the past couple of years, and have seen key styles increase by as much as £2,000 in cost.

Is the Panthère de Cartier Watch Worth It?

As I'm sure you'll appreciate, the answer to this is completely subjective. If you wear a watch every day and have the budget to spend the sum needed to invest in a Panthère de Cartier watch, then I would say, yes, it is worth it in regards to its classicality, elegance and timelessness. I asked our editors which luxury watch they'd most like to own, and a large majority responded the Panthère de Cartier. Perhaps that tells you more than words ever could.

What is the Difference Between the Cartier Tank and Cartier Panthère?

Like the Panthère de Cartier watch, the Cartier Tank watch is a perennially chic design that sets the Parisian jeweller apart. Both are amongst the house's most coveted pieces, but it's their similar shapes that really drives confusion between the two. While the Panthère has a square face with rounded edges, the Tank is a true rectangle, inspired by the military vehicle it derives its name from. The Tank is also offered in the gilded chain link band the Panthère is known for, along with leather strap styles. The Panther is exclusively offered in metal.

Keep scrolling to take a closer look at the most recent designs and then take a closer look at how people have been wearing the Panthère de Cartier for the past four decades,

Shop the Panthère de Cartier Watch:

Celebrities Wearing the Panthère De Cartier Watch:

Style Notes: Jane Fonda in 1987 wearing the watch which many regard as an emblem of the '80s.

Style Notes: Gwyneth Paltrow wore this throughout the '90s, often paired with her simple monochrome outfits.

Style Notes: Sienna Miller is a fan of Cartier, and here wore it a Panthère party with a simple silk cami and skirt, showing it is beautiful with eveningwear.

Style Notes: Madonna wore the Panthère throughout the '80s.

Style Notes: Dua Lupa pairs her Panthère with lots of gold jewellery.

Style Notes: Another classic Gwyneth '90s look, made even better with her gold watch.

Style Notes: Here is a closer look at Sienna's wristwatch.

Style Notes: Anne Hathaway is another Hollywood star who has the Panthère de Cartier.

Style Notes: Model Jasmine Tookes is known for her ultra-elegant style, so it makes sense she has a Cartier Panthère de Cartier watch in her collection.

Style Notes: Another mid-90s Paltrow show to prove how iconic and enduring this design is—no need to worry about keeping up with the latest jewellery trends in this style.

Why Trust Us?

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

My grandma is a practical woman; growing up on a rural farm in Canada will make you so. She's also incredibly knowledgeable, as all grandmothers tend to be. This potent combination means that you will do well to listen when she gives advice. I've made many of my most significant life decisions based on her sage wisdom alone (I regret none), and one of the lessons she taught me and continues to stand by is that designer jewellery is a wise investment.

"Flashy" is not a word I'd use to describe her, but a peek inside her jewellery box would tell you otherwise. It may be a small edit akin to a jewellery capsule wardrobe, but every piece inside is of the highest quality, with some illustrious names in the mix. One in particular that'll get you places in the world of fine jewellery is Cartier.

Founded in Paris in 1847, what was once a small workshop has gone on to become one of, if not the, most iconic jewellery brands in history. Cartier historically worked closely with countless sovereigns and royal families worldwide, creating everything from crowns and tiaras to necklaces and earrings. The brand has since become a regular on the red carpet, with celebrities wearing its glittering creations for premieres, award season and industry events.

However, Cartier isn't all about ornate pieces (though it does them exceptionally well). Some of its most recognisable jewellery, particularly the designs that have become status symbols, has an industrial aesthetic. Like the Tank watch, which, as its name suggests, derives its design from the military vehicle, or the triptych-style Trinity collection, the French maison is practical in its approach to ensuring daily rituals like checking the time or adorning yourself in jewellery are as beautiful as possible.

No better design embodies this attitude than the Juste Un Clou bangle.

What Is the Cartier Juste un Clou Bangle?

We all know the well-loved and adored Cartier Love Bracelet. Consider the Cartier Juste un Clou bangle its younger and easier-to-remove sister. Inspired by a humble metal nail, if the Love Bracelet is known for its bolted fastening using a gilded screwdriver, the Juste un Clou is the objet d'art equivalent of a nail. The design itself has been interpreted and reconfigured numerous times since its first release in 1971, but all pieces share the same motif: a broadened circular flat head that curves into a faceted diamond-shaped spike, which loops around your wrist or finger.

What Is the Meaning Behind Juste un Clou?

Juste un Clou literally translates in French to "just a nail". The piece was designed at Cartier New York and was initially called the Nail Bracelet upon its debut. However, the 2000 rendition saw it changed to the now-iconic name.

Why Is the Juste un Clou Bracelet So Famous?

The Juste un Clou bangle was designed by Aldo Cipullo, the brand's late jewellery designer, who had a distinct minimalist and androgynous style with a love of all things nuts, bolts and screws. The Juste un Clou, along with the Love Bracelet, made Cartier relevant to a younger, more fashionable audience, with the pieces soon commanding a cult following.

As the story goes, the Italian expat was fascinated with the mode of coveting mundane, everyday objects. At the time, discerning shoppers wanted less showy pieces whilst still favouring designs that conveyed their taste, wealth and insight. Like how Elsa Peretti elevated the bean for Tiffany, Cipullo and Cartier ensured that hardware was given a new and more opulent meaning.

What Is the Significance of the Nail Bracelet?

The Juste un Clou bangle or "nail bracelet" is significant because it broke conventions when it was launched, and continues to rewrite tradition. Whilst satirising household objects to make them desirable is commonplace now—look at Balenciaga's collaboration with Erewhon, JW Anderson's famous pigeon purse, or even the literal baguette bag Rihanna recently wore, which was more supermarket than Fendi—this idea was rather rebellious at the time.

In a world post-extreme rationing in the wake of WWII, this resourcefulness was a marker of innovation that revolutionised the jewellery industry. To this day, the Juste un Clou's disruptive design continues to be one of Cartier's most enduring pieces.

Is the Cartier Juste un Clou Still Popular?

The Juste un Clou is a timeless piece that never wanes in popularity. So much so that Cartier has continually introduced reinterpretations of the design since its release. In 2012, the brand relaunched the Juste un Clou bangle and released an entirely new collection based around it. The new Juste un Clou offering included rings in addition to bracelets, all shaped like gracefully bent nails, like the original, but with a modern twist. Each was made in rose, white and yellow gold, and some were outfitted with pavé diamonds set into the head of the nail.

In 2017, the Juste un Clou collection grew to encapsulate earrings, cufflinks, tie pins and an achingly cool torque necklace (you may have even seen Meghan Markle in it at the 2022 Invictus Games and again amidst her 2024 quasi-royal tour to Colombia). That being said, it's safe to say that the piece that started it all—the Juste un Clou bangle—is still the most coveted.

Is the Juste un Clou Bracelet Worth It?

When making any investment, it's always worth considering how a piece appreciates and the longevity of its design. Cartier has continued to craft and sell the bangle since its launch over 50 years ago, with prices for the thinnest iteration starting at £2900 and peaking at £83,000 for a thick style complete with 236 pavé diamonds. Of course, should money be no object, there are some Juste un Clou bangles listed as "price on request". Dare to dream, huh? However, a scroll on resale platforms will alert you to the fact that there are some brilliant secondhand Juste un Clou bangles to be found.

"The Juste un Clou bangle was originally released in the early 1970s, and from the beginning, it was meant to be a minimalist-style piece—it is really just a beautifully bent nail! It quickly became a coveted item amongst jewellery collectors and socialites, as it represents class and status, owing to its hefty price tag," explains Regi Colomina, owner and founder of online shop Golden by Regi, which specialises in rare vintage and antique jewellery.

"I would say that the main focus for us vintage-jewellery lovers (and sellers) is picking out the authentic bracelets from the replicas," explains Colomina. "Such high demand for the Cartier bracelet also comes with high demand for fakes, and sometimes, really good fakes. All in all, the simple and distinct design of this bracelet, combined with the high price tag, makes the perfect recipe for jewellery aficionados to want it."

What Is the Most Popular Cartier Bracelet?

It should come as no surprise that the Cartier Love Bracelet is the most popular, with the Juste un Clou a close second. Other ranges of note include the coffee-bean inspired Grain de Café range, which Elle Fanning helped reintroduce to modern audiences at the 2023 Met Gala, and the animalistic Panthère de Cartier.

Keep scrolling to see the various interpretations of the Juste un Clou bangle. I guarantee you'll be tempted to heed my grandma's advice.

Shop the Juste un Clou Bangle

Jewellery is a window into one's soul, or so the idea goes. From dainty layering pieces to statement cocktail rings, the same piece can look completely different depending on the individual wearing it. As such, iconic pieces have developed over the years, and everyone speaks the same language about them: They are status-making, outfit-changing, conversation-starting and eternally on-trend. A particular bracelet can mark a momentous occasion, but it will continue to garner nods from those in-the-know types forever more. A classic jewellery purchase can be handed down as an heirloom or styled up to look just as current as that medallion necklace trend you're buying into right now.

From Bulgari to Chanel, these fashion houses have created some of the most recognizable pieces of jewellery of all time. These dreamy pieces of designer jewellery have helped these luxury brands become household names and have become something of a status symbol in the fashion world.

I, admittedly, am one for understated and simple gold pieces snagged at an antique store or flea market, but I would be lying if I said I haven't dreamed of owning a Cartier Love bracelet a few dozen times, and such is its far-reaching appeal.

Whether you're looking to buy or looking to browse, go on and have a little scroll through the most important designer jewellery pieces of the modern age.

The Dior Mise En Dior Tribales earrings were first introduced in 2013 in their simplest pearl iteration—they were an instant smash and soon spawned many a copycat as well as many a new version from the Parisian fashion house. The style is still going strong today, and whilst we'll always have a fondness for the most classic double-pearl option, there are more wild takes on the idea out there: See the baubles that look like starry little spaceships or the ones finished with jewel studs. They are the perfect cool-girl evening earrings, but for a more casual approach, pair them with a logo T-shirt, jeans, and kitten heels.

The Hermès Clic H bracelet was originally introduced in 2012 as the Hermès H bracelet—but super fans started calling it the Clic Clac and it stuck, according to legend (the internet). This elegant little style—which follows the same H-inspired design as the brand's iconic leather belt and Constance bag—is fashioned from enamel and comes many in different sizes as well as colours. If your style is more playful, follow Alexandra Lapp's lead and double up on logos. Alternatively, the bracelet will look equally chic with an oxford shirt and denim skirt.

Coco Chanel revolutionised the idea of costume jewellery—it was once seen as naff, and although the designer did have a fine jewellery collection (and the brand now creates the most incredible fine jewellery pieces), she radically introduced the idea of wearing semi-precious with precious—like those ropes of pearls, bedazzling, gem-studded brooches or chunky enamel bangles.

There are many pieces we'd like to own from Chanel's wide jewellery offering: 1980s gold logo earrings, strands of pearls, delicate diamonds and more, but there's still something unique about picking up one of the intricately designed brooches—no matter your age or personal style.

We'd be blowing kisses too if we were decked out in Bulgari ice like Bella. With a sky-high price tag thanks to the complex engineering and high-quality materials that go into making each Serpenti design, it's no wonder that this haute joiallerie range is one the most aspirational out there, and vintage pieces are known to be auctioned for phenomenal amounts: A rare Serpenti watch from 1965 went for over $1 million in 2014 (about £762,900).

This snaking design range was initiated in the 1940s via a bracelet design and has been adapted into necklaces, watches, earrings and more—we'd take any of them.

Bulgari Serpenti 18kt White Gold Ring 

Pricing available upon request.

Darlings, please remember our birthdays. 

You might not realise it (thanks to its demure size), but you’re never far away from a Cartier Love bracelet. First created over 50 years ago, it’s still as popular as ever and holding its place as one of the most sought-after luxury items in the world. Plenty of celebrities and influencers own the classic band, from the likes of Kylie Jenner to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. The Sussexes even showed off their matching bracelets back in September 2020 in a video for TIME magazine, and now bangle is continuing to grow in popularity as searches peaked this passed December (hello, gifting season). It's probably no coincidence that high-end retailers have seen a spike in fine jewellery this past year.

A couple of years ago, Interbrand ranked Cartier as one of the best global brands in the world, with the company’s Love bracelets keeping it relevant to new audiences. What a host of celebrities, both young and old, often spotted wearing a stack of them, it’s easy to see why they remain popular among a spectrum of buyers even when the bangle comes with a price tag of £3k and up. If you're looking to make an investment for the future, this could be a hot-ticket: Many vintage and pre-loved styles look like they increase in value, with styles on Vestiaire Collective right now hitting well above the £4k mark. Be sure to make you a buy second-hand version complete with the screwdriver, certificate and invoice of purchase. And an original case wouldn't go amiss either…

But is there more to this iconic piece of jewellery that has given it such perennial popularity? To understand how and why it’s become such a hit, keep scrolling.

The History of the Cartier Love Bracelet:

When you start delving into the world of the Cartier Love bracelet, you realise it’s surrounded by legend. When originally designed in 1969, it was thought to have been inspired by the chastity belt. To this day, to get it on and off, you have to use a screwdriver. “What modern people want are love symbols that look semipermanent—or at least, require a trick to remove. After all, love symbols should suggest an everlasting quality,” said Cartier’s Aldo Cipullo at the time of its creation. Cartier even created a YouTube tutorial to help the fastening and unfastening process be that little bit easier.

There are other romantic lores that surround the iconic piece of jewellery. When the item was first launched, the brand apparently only sold them to couples (who would gift each other their screwdrivers). Cartier also gifted high-profile couples, such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and Ali McGraw and Steve McQueen, but the widespread fervour for this one item in modern times was summed up when Vogue reported that NYC hospitals had to keep one of the screwdrivers handy just in case they needed to remove one of the bracelets from a patient.

Celebrities Wearing the Cartier Love Bracelet:

For everyone from Eva Chen to Kylie Jenner, society girls to businesswomen, and fashion editors to fashion collectors, the Cartier bracelet falls in the same category as the Hermès Birkin, classic Chanel handbag, or Louis Vuitton luggage—regardless of your personal style, you will want this item, while other fashion icons definitely have their tribes (for example, if you’re into Off-White, you’re probably not into Erdem).

How to Style the Cartier Love Bracelet:

The range has been so popular over the years that you'll find the Love range extends to other types of jewellery, including earrings, rings, necklaces and also timepieces. Some stay true to the all-metal original whilst others mix hues and feature precious stones. Because what could be better than a Love bangle than a Love bangle studded with diamonds, darling?

Many Cartier fans have invested for a second time with the brand's more recent bangle offering, the Juste Un Clu (which translates as "just one nail"). Pictured above alongside the Love bangle, Clu is an industrial-looking curved "nail" rendered in gold.

Now that we’ve told you literally everyone wants to own at least one of these bracelets, you’ll not be able to stop noticing them. From those who love minimal outfits to the more eclectic mix of patterns, any kind of ensemble will work with the jewellery. Got your credit card ready? Shop the Cartier Love bracelet below.

Shop Cartier Love Bracelets:

It’s no secret that holidays are rooted in tradition. While we have many of our own—perhaps going on an annual shopping spree with our mom and sister or ice-skating with our friends—we’d be lying if we said we weren’t interested in knowing how our favourite bloggers do up the most festive time of year. Sure, we see glimpses into their stylish, fast-paced lives on social media, but we don’t really know what goes on when they take some much-needed time off.

To get a peek behind the scenes, we turned to London-based style star Tamara Kalinic of Glam & Glitter, who was game to share some of her own cherished holiday musts with us. "There’s nothing better than gifting a family member and seeing their face as they tear the wrapping paper,” says Kalinic, who admits that she also enjoys splurging on herself, too.

“I often wrap presents for myself and put them under the Christmas tree. There’s nothing quite like waking up to a white Cartier box with a perfectly tied red bow." That way you'll get exactly what you want for the holidays. Want to know other ways Kalinic makes the most out of the holidays? Scroll down for her five tips for unwrapping the best holiday season yet.

Be an Organised Shopper

“I usually start planning what I’m going to gift at the start of November, and then start shopping in December,” says Kalinic. “My favourite thing is buying presents that I know my loved ones wouldn’t get for themselves because they’re too modest or humble—it’s the perfect time to spoil them.”

Get in the Festive Spirit

“My favourite part about the holidays is living in the moment and enjoying the spirit to the max,” Kalinic tells us. “I can’t resist holiday-themed music and movies, burning my go-to seasonal candles, and decorating my home.”

Create a Go-To Holiday Outfit 

“I like to be comfortable, cosy and stylish,” the blogger notes. “Luckily, my wardrobe is full of oversize knits and over-the-knee socks, so I usually live in those pieces this time of year.”

Surprise Your Loved Ones 

Kalinic was raised in Serbia but now lives in England, so she knows the importance of spending time with loved ones. “I always make sure to make the most out of the holidays with my family,” she tells us. “I love being back at my parents’ house, spending time by the fireplace and eating treats.”

Find the Perfect Gift

“The holiday season is all about love. Love for your friends, family, partner and the city you live in,” Kalinic says. “I think that a Cartier Love Bracelet is so much more than just a material object. It represents love, eternity and emotions all bundled into a beautiful piece of jewelry that’s classic and can be worn forever.”

Shop Cartier Gifts

What are some of your favourite holiday traditions? Tell us in the comments below.

Now that spring is sitting the season out and all things summer are on the agenda, it’s natural to want to treat yourself to a dose of extra sunshine. While a luxurious getaway to somewhere like the South of France or Italy's Amalfi Coast would be nice, you can still channel a little of that European glamour no matter where you are. No doubt your carry-all will be filled with the essentials, but if you have an eye for something new and chic, the sunglasses in Cartier’s Panthère Divine Collection may be just what you need.

Scroll down for the 10 need-to-know rules to follow before you jet. 

Achieving the je ne sais quoi of the French, It-girl gang is not as daunting as it sounds. Your outfit choices don’t need to be precise. Find that effortless sense of polish in your attitude, and accessories, both can be found in a pair of round Cartier sunnies. 

Whether you’re actually in Portofino (lucky you!) or dining alfresco at your favourite little Italian restaurant in the city, these cat-eye sunglasses (in gold or silver) lend that finishing touch you need to elevate your weekend uniform.

Shop more sunglasses from the Cartier Panthère Divine Collection. 

What personal style rules do try and follow while travelling? Tell us in the comments below. 

It's not every day your significant other gets down on one knee and proposes to spend the rest of your lives together. That's why the symbol to represent the occasion, the engagement ring, is of utmost importance.

Sure, it's your love for each other that matters most, but there's a reason we wear the jewel: to show the world how important that relationship is. We're certainly not arguing with that. But what we do question is how much should you really spend on one. You've probably heard a month's or two months' salary before.

Well, the concept of "how much" actually dates back to the 1930s, after De Beers launched a marketing campaign to strengthen the tradition of the ring (you know the jeweller's still-used-today slogan, "A Diamond Is Forever") and convince people to buy diamonds (which haven't been classified as a rare stone since the 1870s) in a bad economy. An ad in the late 1930s suggested spending a month's salary on an engagement ring, and then in the 1980s, that switched to two months' salary (check out the ad below), because "Isn't two months' salary a small price to pay for something that lasts forever?" So there you have it. That's where this tradition of spending a fortune on a ring came from—a marketing ploy.

But what do you think? Should you spend a significant portion of your salary on a ring? Does something lower-priced mean just as much? We want to know.

And if you are on the hunt for the perfect engagement ring or want to hint to your long-term S.O., keep scrolling to scope unique engagement rings for every budget below. 

Under $500

Under $1,000

Under $1,500

Related: 23 Fashion Insiders With Stunning Engagement Rings

Under $2,500

Under $5,000

After you live in New York City for a while you start to notice that the ladies of the island gravitate to many of the same fashion items, regardless of differences in their overall style. There are just certain pieces that Manhattan girls can't seem to get enough of, and they're not all as edgy as you might expect! So, for the sake of upping your knowledge on how city girls really dress (and allowing you to replicate the look yourself), we’ve rounded up their absolute favourite items.

Scroll down to see and shop the 19 pieces that NYC girls are often spotted with!

So naturally, when the Revenge star agreed to crash our fashion closet and put together two dramatically different denim looks, we were excited to see her in action. Click through now to see the results, and shop her fall must-haves.

Photographer: Justin Coit

Hair: Luke Chamberlain at Starworks Artists

Makeup: Adam Breuchaud at Starworks Artists

Shop Her Look:

Vintage Chanel Blazer ($1,750, 323.933.0250, available at WGACA Vintage) in Navy

J Brand Maso Blouse ($395) in Marble 

Levi’s Red Tab Vintage Jeans (similar style here) 

Pour La Victoire Carlin Loafers ($261, available end of August) in Black Patent

Jennifer Fisher Single Medium Safety Pin Earring ($400) in Gold

Cartier Love Bracelet ($6,350) in Yellow Gold

Shop Her Look:

Vintage Chanel Blazer ($1,750, 323.933.0250, available at WGACA Vintage) in Navy

Cartier Love Bracelet ($6,350) in Yellow Gold

Shop Her Look:

J Brand 403 Slim Fitted Jacket ($229) in Atomic 

Calvin Klein Jeans Denim Shirt ($70) in Blue Tide

Moschino Cheap & Chic Fur Zip Mini Skirt ($1,595, 212.243.8600) in Leopard Print Fur 

Vintage Chanel Birdcage Earrings ($1,500, 323.933.0250, available at WGACA Vintage) 

Diane von Furstenberg Bianca Mesh Pumps ($350) in Black

Get Her Look:

J Brand 403 Slim Fitted Jacket ($229) in Atomic 

Calvin Klein Jeans Denim Shirt ($70) in Blue Tide

Vintage Chanel Birdcage Earrings ($1,500, 323.933.0250, available at WGACA Vintage) 

In addition to Jerome Dreyfuss’ slouchy Max Leopard Bag ($2295), Madekwe eyed Proenza Schouler’s The PS11 Classic Textured Leather Shoulder Bag ($1950) in Bright Blue, noting that she would wear it cross-body style to add a touch of prep to her outfit. 

When Madekwe’s embracing her edgier sensibilities, Saint Laurent’s Leather Ankle Boots ($950) in Red are the perfect finishing touch. 

Madekwe showcased her affinity for the boyfriend jean when she turned up at our office wearing a pair with Chanel flats. She confirmed her love for the slouchy style when she picked the similarly slouchy Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans ($88) by Blank NYC.

A fan of the grunge trend for fall, Madekwe quickly fell for the Marc by Marc Jacobs Aimee L’Oeil Merino Wool Sweater ($280). “I would wear this with a really dark maroon lip, some ripped jeans, and Dr. Martens, ” she says.

Madekwe first called out the swishy silhouette and studded detailing of Versus’ Allover Gold Studded Skirt ($595) in Black, but she also liked the fact that she could “dress it down with a denim shirt and some brogues.”

“A sweatshirt with leather sleeves is all me,” Madekwe says, laughing, pulling AllSaints’ Niro Top ($260) off the rack. “This would be a great everyday piece with skinny jeans, flats, or sneakers. You could definitely wear this in the evening as well.”

Of all the jewellery pieces in our closet, Madekwe was most smitten with J.Crew’s Spiky Rope Necklace ($128). “I love wearing really ornate embellished pieces with more dressed-down items,” she says.

A good pointy pump, like Brian Atwood’s Cassandra Pumps ($613) in Rouge Suede, are a staple for the actress. So what would she wear with them? Simply put: “Everything I own.”

“Stripes are a great basic,” Madekwe says. She immediately gravitated toward towards LNA’s Ruby Tank ($84), commenting on its ability to quickly pull an outfit together. “This would be great with a red lip—very French,” she added.

Not just any denim jacket will do for this British stunner. “Again, it’s a basic with something special,” she said about Versus’ Jean Jacket with Studded Details ($625). “I love the embellishment and that it has that old-school ‘90s vibe.”

Sachin + Babi Coronado Sleeveless Dress ($237)

Cartier Love Bracelet (price upon request)

ASOS PROXY Pointed High Heels with Toe Cap ($51)

Alternatives:

Forever 21 Floral Print Peplum Sheath Dress ($25)

Boutique 9 Justine Patent Leather Pumps ($120)