Sure, you can throw on an eye-catching pair of shoes or grab a chic bag to add a statement-making pop to your outfit. But what about something you can wear 24/7— something that adds style to everything, even your sleepwear? Permanent (and semi-permanent) accessories are a genius way to do exactly that. Whether you want wearable art in the form of a tattoo, jewelry that expresses who you are via piercings and permanent bracelets, or a lower commitment from a (still long-lasting!) creative manicure, this is your guide to round-the-clock accessories that make style a snap, all here in town.
Permanent Bracelets
"The idea of offering permanent bracelets was driven by my own desire to have something special to wear each day," says Emily Blundell, owner of Jeweled Coquette, which offers permanent bracelets at pop-ups and private events. "I am pretty lazy with my jewelry, so I wanted something sparkly and a little bit luxurious that I never had to take off!" Not only are the bracelets gorgeous, the experience of getting one is special and unique, explains Emily. "The memory of getting the bracelet is completely personal. Maybe you got matching bracelets with a best friend, or perhaps you were celebrating a milestone. The bracelet is a tangible piece of the moment. It's all about wearing pieces that hold special meaning and memories!" jeweledcoquette.com
Tattoos
A tattoo full of meaning is, in many ways, the ultimate example of personal style. "I believe tattoos are an expression of self, identity, experiences, and beliefs," says Amanda Mas, owner of Rebel & Rose Tattoo. "I’ve seen clients incorporate tattoos into their style [by using them] to tell their story." Because of the experiences that inform the art—memorials to lost loved ones, commemorations of new babies, markers of healing journeys—everything you put on after a tattoo changes, and for one simple reason: confidence. "For [someone] to get something forever on their body, and be able to look at something beautiful that they’re proud of, is unmatched." rebelandrosetattoo.com
Manicures
While not as long-lasting as the other accessories in this feature, a beautifully done manicure can last weeks and is totally customizable with shape, color, texture, or nail art. "I think nails are one of the most personal and versatile accessories you can have," says Penny Yi, owner of La Beaute Artistry. "They say something about who you are and how you’re feeling." Penny works with clients to create designs they'll love looking at, and she and her team have brought to life everything from a bridal set that incorporated elements of the wedding dress to custom cat-eye French nails for a client on a self-love journey. "I always tell clients to come in with a vision, but be open to collaboration. I love helping bring [their vision] to life in a way that feels personal—something that fits their style, matches the occasion, and still works with everyday looks." La Beaute Artistry excels at nail art and design, but Penny loves a classic manicure, too— "There's something about a soft, soapy manicure in a color like Fresh Linen or Tea Time. It’s timeless, clean, and truly goes with everything." labeauteartistry.com
Piercings
"Piercings express individuality," says Christine Zimmerman, the piercing nurse at Rebel & Rose. There are so many ways to make a piercing unique— placement, jewelry, how it works with other piercings you have. "It's a tool to express one’s creativity and inner spirit to the world." Christine has expertise in all kinds of piercings, especially creating harmonious "ear parties" that take earrings to the next level. "We choose a few statement pieces and build off of those with a balance of simpler and complementary pieces," she says. "It’s always incredibly gratifying to see someone come in with a bare ear and leave with a jewelry collection that they never would have thought of beforehand, yet fits their personal expression perfectly." rebelandrosetattoo.com