by Amanda Applebyinfo@amandaappleby.comFind the perfect St Patrick's Day accessory
Everyone is Irish on 17 March, when people the world over celebrate the life and death of St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Even if you don't have a drop of green in your blood, you can still join in the festivities! But please, leave the tinsel wigs and over-sized plastic sunglasses to the less discerning revelers. St Patrick's Day fashion can be done stylishly. To avoid feeling and looking ridiculous, choose a few accent pieces - such as good quality vintage or antique jewellery in a brilliant green hue.
Here are four ways to celebrate the Feast of Saint Patrick with flair:
St Patrick's Day Collectibles
Look out for collectible vintage St Patrick's Day jewellery such as Irish flag pins, lucky horseshoes, shamrock pendants and leprechaun charms.
Emerald green is the traditional colour, but Irish symbols such as the three-leaved clover, Ireland's national emblem - which signifies the trinity -, can also be found in the form of gold or silver jewellery.
Emeralds
The most dazzling of green gemstones is, of course, the emerald. Budget a bit tight? You don't need to invest in the real deal to look sophisticated! There are many good quality green vintage paste pieces that will look equally striking with your evening wear. Be bold and go for a matching emerald-inspired necklace and earrings set.
Jade
In keeping with the tradition of Irish luck and good fortune, Jade is considered to be extremely lucky in Chinese culture. This beautiful mineral can be intricately carved into beads, pendants and rings, and its rich green colour makes it the perfect accessory for St Patrick's Day!
Celtic Symbols
Celtic jewellery dates back to 2000 BC, and was often worn by the Celts in battle as talismans. Today, many vintage jewellery pieces with ancient Celtic designs such as the Trinity Knot, Celtic cross and spirals can still be found. These heritage pieces are still associated with power and good blessings and make unique gifts.
There are only a few hours to go before St Paddy's, so start hunting for the perfect green bling! May the luck o'the Irish be with you!