The dark, schoolgirl-esque look of the Fall 2013 collection of Lanvin’s Alber Elbaz (at times, paired with masculine shoes) gave the line an air of scholarly chic, balanced by a touch of whimsy around the collar. Some clever runway stylist punched up some of those serious looks with ironic oversize slogan or word-motif necklaces (such as “Help” and “Cool”), adding just the right element of frivolity to otherwise sober statements. When clients come into your store in similarly serious attire, suggest they lighten up looks by wearing a jewel that does the talking for them. From silly to solemn, a well-placed accessory can communicate messages of all types for the wearer without them having to utter a syllable.

Foxy ring in silver, $34; Dogeared

Sterling stackable word rings, $40 apiece; Jessica Elliot

Awesome necklace in sterling, $54; Baroni Designs

Single necklace in sterling, $72; Dogeared

Pinky-Finger Swear rings (size 4.5 and adjustable; larger sizes available) in silver and 14k gold, $240 and $670; Vargas Goteo

Silver Human bracelet, $360; Efva Attling

Gangsta necklace in silver, $400; Wendy Brandes

Hope necklace in 14k gold with 0.06 ct. t.w. diamonds, $590; Zoe Chicco

Star necklace in 14k gold, $900; Lana Jewelry

Whatever necklace in silver with 1.25 ct. t.w. diamonds, $1,500; Jessica Kagan Cushman/Berlin Gothic

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