Styling with your smartwatch: Here’s how to avoid a fashion faux pas

There’s nothing quite like flaunting a luxury watch with your #OOTD. In fact, we’ve been tuned to treating wristwatches more as an accessory than a timepiece. That said, smartwatches have slowly begun replacing the analogue watch on our wrists — thanks to a host of features that they offer. However, they’re not considered ‘fashion friendly’, to say the least, and have often raised debates about whether they should be worn for certain black-tie or ethnic wear occasions.

Turning your smartwatch into a statement piece

There’s no reason to put away your wearables before you step into your party shoes. Typically, smartwatches today are available with two different dials – circular and square – and can complement your ensemble when paired correctly. For those into the Apple ecosystem, an Apple Watch  comes with replaceable bands for you to experiment with cocktail gowns and traditional wear alike. In fact, you have the option of choosing from casual silicon bands to formal leather straps or dressier Milanese loops that you can pick based on the event you are attending.

Sandeep Gonsalves, director and co-founder of luxury designer label Sarah and Sandeep, says how styling a smartwatch with ethnic wear peaks with the selection of a model that comes with interchangeable bands. “This approach allows for a meticulous synchronisation of the strap alongside the chromatic grandness of your attire,” he says.

ALSO READ: How to change an Apple Watch band

Believe it or not, the shape of your smartwatch’s dial also makes a difference. “The dial’s shape is pivotal, particularly in formal and traditional settings,” Gonsalves says. However, you can always pick between square or round dial based on the occasion you’re planning for. “A round dial emanates an aura of classic sophistication fit for myriad occasions,” he adds. A Samsung Galaxy Watch sports a round dial and is an elegant accessory to have for soirees or weddings. Likewise, Gonsalves also mentions how a rectangular dial introduces an element of contemporary audacity and singular flair.

Lastly, the watch face or the customisable dial of your smartwatch is what stands out during a formal occasion. It is best to keep subdued colours and designs that are not too flashy or grab attention within the gathering. You can also create your own watch face to ensure it blends with the outfit of your choice. “As you deliberate over the dial’s contours, the event’s level of formality and your intrinsic style must be delicately woven into the fabric of your choice,” Gonsalves adds.

So, whether you’re planning chic Western formals or are in the mood for sparkling traditional wear, make sure to spend a few minutes getting your smartwatch prepped for the experience. After all, when styled correctly, your wearables will undoubtedly enhance your outfits instead of just standing out.