"Clothing makes the man" or woman…but accessories make the outfit. Choosing the right jewelry and other accessories can add flair, a statement about your personal style and even make the same outfit appropriate for a variety of environments. Fashion and jewelry selection is subjective, but here are some suggestions to make the most of your choices.

1. Choose pieces that are appropriate for the situation. Engagement and wedding rings, as well as most watches are generally considered all-purpose. We wear these pieces because of practical, cultural or personal reasons. Other accessories may fit better in some environments than others. For instance, at a job interview, you want to keep the focus on you and your skills -- so it is best to wear jewelry that is professional and understated. Wearing diamond jewelry with jeans and other casual outfits is certainly an accepted fashion trend, use your best instincts about too much "sparkle" for business. If you think a piece of jewelry or a jewelry ensemble might be inappropriate or overpowering for a situation, it probably is. You always want jewelry to make you feel special, not self conscious.

2. Select pieces that complement, but don't necessarily match the color of your clothing. Wearing traditional blue sapphire earrings with a blue dress seems like a safe choice, but it may not be the best choice. Monochromatic dressing makes a statement, and if executed well can be a powerful choice. In many cases, however, it represents a missed opportunity to add personality to a wardrobe selection.

Multi gemstone jewelry, like a broach, bracelet or pendant is a great way to add color and interest to solid color clothing. For dresses, blouses or suits that already include a variety of colors, pick one or two from the palette and use those as the targets for your accessory choices in jewelry, handbags, etc.

3. Consider your skin tone, proportions, hair style and hair color. Warm skin tones generally work best with gold tone jewelry. Cool skin tones and red or silver hair often work well for platinum or silver. Large, chunky earrings are generally a better choice when the wearer has longer, fuller hairstyles where studs may get lost. Other jewelry pieces should compliment your figure and should avoid conflicting with the neckline or waistline of the outfit.

These are very general suggestions. Ultimately, jewelry is a very personal reflection of you. A unique piece of multi gemstone jewelry may be your personal hallmark, even if it breaks some or all of the standard rules. Don't be afraid to experiment. Sometimes, the most unexpected combinations yield the most fascinating, fabulous results.