WRIST WATCH

This week, I become the proud father of a bike chain. Unfortunately it's not on a bike, which I could really use these days considering how much I HATE the 57 bus. No, instead it's going on my wrist.

Before you get all "you silly hipster" on me, let me clarify that this is not about bike chain jewelry - it's about jewelry for guys. I'm not talking cool fancy watches or not-so-cool diamond studs. Simple but interesting bracelets are a stylish way to add to your look without looking like a pirate.

I'm a big fan of leather bracelets. You don't get that flashy jewelry vibe. And if you go with a neat woven piece you'll have a sense of understated luxury and cool. Think Bottega Venetta - or rather the opposite of Lil Wayne. Alan Bilzerian has some steller options in this department with a wide selection of leather pieces. Don't be afraid to throw on a few bracelets at a time as long as they're all relatively thin. It's usually best to have varying sizes too.

To add to my collection, I'm going the route of Deviated by Justin Giunta's steel bike chain bracelet. I have the issue of small wrists so I can steal this rad piece from the ladies without a problem. Again, I like to stay away from anything shiny. Brushed stainless steel, silver and brass are solid options. On a recent scouting trip to Uncle Pete's on Charles Street (more on this new spot later) I found some eye-catching chains and things from Bing Bang. They do a great job of incorporating small details that don't scream "I'm super duper hip look at me" but do give a subtle wink and say "Yea, I'm cooler than you."
 
For a bit more color and a little more funk you could check out Marc by Marc Jacobs (shown above) to get your wrist into some ethnic inspired bead bracelets. Yes, I said beads. They're actually really cool. I can't figure out if I'm getting a Mexican street vendor or Indian prayer beads vibe but these bracelets definitely have character.

What I'm saying, guys, don't be afraid of bracelets. Keeping it simple while adding an interesting detail can take you places. And it might start a nice conversation next time you go to grab your beer from the bar.