Despite drastic changes throughout fashion, watches have remained a classic, upholding a status as one of the most elegant pieces of jewellery.

Despite drastic changes throughout fashion, watches have remained a classic, upholding a status as one of the most elegant pieces of jewellery.

And while these sleek, stylish and sophisticated pieces have been an integral part of a stunning look, the success of the look comes down to the right styling.

Understanding how to style your ladies' watch is fundamental. Whether you've just received a sentimental gift from your partner or just self-indulged, we've broken down everything you need to know about styling your luxurious watch in our complete ladies' watch styling guide.

• Which arm should a woman wear her watch on? 
• How to get the perfect fitted watch
• How high should you wear a watch
• Does it matter if your watch doesn’t match your outfit

Which arm should a woman wear her watch on?

The non-dominant theory, which is placing your watch on your non-dominant hand, is thought to reduce everyday damage compared to wearing your watch on your dominant hand.

With most of the population being right-handed, it's often heard that you should wear your watch on your left wrist, but if you are left-handed, it's time to switch to your right hand.

Is this different for men and women?

While there may be many fashion differences between men and women, when it comes to watches, it's best practice for both to wear the watch on your non-dominant hand.

How to get a perfectly fitted watch

When you first enter the world of watches, you're inundated with a huge collection of glamorous dials, bracelets and brands. While it may be clear which ones appeal to you, getting the right size may be more complex. So, where do you start?

Firstly, it's important to know that watches shouldn't be loose when fitted. They should comfortably hold a firm grip on your wrist.

In addition, a good tip to establish whether your watch is too tight is to slide your index finger slightly between your wrist and watch. If you can't, it's too tight.

What size watch should I get as a woman?

You may have noticed that ladies' watches tend to come in a smaller frame than men's. They're split into two main sizing categories for women's watches: those with a diameter of 24mm-29mm and 30mm-38mm.

The watches are still adjustable. The sizing simply refers to the dial size. If you need to tighten or loosen a metal bracelet watch, you will require a local jewellers to remove the watch links for a perfectly adjusted fit.

24-29mm diameter watches for women

Ideal for those with a small wrist, a 24mm-29mm diameter watch allows you to express your style without you feeling as though the watch is overpowering your look.

These subtle dials come in all your favourite styles, including a diamond-set for a glamorous look to the modern smartwatch.

If you're looking for a sleek petite watch, our range of Rado watches offers a luxurious presence in a smaller dial.

30-38mm diameter watches for women

Watches that range between a diameter of 30mm to 38mm are a popular choice for those with a larger wrist. It's only a subtle change in sizing, but the dial-to-wrist ratio will greatly impact your look.

Gucci is a brand that has mastered this look, providing us with impressive watches that incorporate larger dials for added character.

Which strap should I get on my watch?

Like the dial size, choosing the right strap is equally important. More often than not, your strap will be half the size of the dial for a well-rounded look.

When finding the right strap that accommodates your needs, you should consider the style and thickness of the watch strap.

 

How high should you wear a watch?

The forearm bone, called the ulna, is the subtle lump on your wrist and is a great guiding point. Aim to have your watch directly on top or slightly down the ulna, in the direction away from your wrist.

Those with an ulna bone that particularly sticks out may find that placing it directly on top makes for an uncomfortable experience. If that's the case, simply place the watch slightly above, away from your wrist.

Placing your watch too close to your wrist may look bulkier, whereas the opposite will look too slim. This is why using the ulna as a guide is important, as it'll give you the perfect ratio.

How to style a long-sleeved shirt with a watch

To master wearing a long-sleeved shirt with a watch, follow the golden ratio of 15% of your watch being on show when your arm is straightened.

This is about having the right-sized shirt, as opposed to styling your watch, so avoid having an overly short sleeve, as this doesn't give you a good look.

Does it matter if your watch doesn't match your outfit?

Like your belt, and every other accessory, your watch can make or break your look, so here are the two key things you need to consider.

The formality

You never want to appear over or underdressed when it comes to your clothing, and the same applies to your watch choice.

When selecting your watch, take into consideration the formality of where you'll be going. If the event is formal lean towards a dress watch. This is considered the most formal watch choice, which is great for black-tie events.

In any other case, a divers watch is always a safe option, while pilot watches are perfect for styling with casual wear.

Focus on your shoes

Using your shoes as a guide is an unexpected way to ensure your watch fits your outfit. Watches made from metal go great with brown or black shoes while matching leather shoes with a leather strap is an effortless go-to.

Silver watches complement grey, navy and blue tones, while gold watches are a perfect blend for browns, beiges, tans, and other earth tones.

Watches are a fundamental piece of a great outfit, and thanks to this guide, you've got everything you need to know about wearing your ladies' watch the right way.

At Francis & Gaye, we've got a plethora of seamless ladies' watches fit for you, and you can explore them all now.

Check Out Our Ladies’ Watches