Trendlet: Body chains

Statement jewelry is making a dainty - albeit sexy - move this year.

Layers of necklaces are swaying just above the navel, mixed-metal strands are glistening around waists, and some sparkling chains are being fashioned into vests. Watch out this summer as body jewelry makes jumpsuits, maxi dresses, and cutoff jean shorts more seductive.

The custom of draping oneself in jeweled chains goes back to ancient India as both a fashion and religious statement.

Back in the 1970s, when hippy sensibilities met the fire of rock-and-roll, celebrities such as Cher and Pam Grier donned long chains around their necks and let them dangle around denim-clad waists.

In 2013, Beyoncé released the HBO documentary Life Is But a Dream. We didn't learn anything earth-shattering about the megastar, but the necklace-to-waist chains she wore with bathing suits ushered in a new era for body jewelry. And as festival fashion evolved into its own genre, a well-draped chain became more desirable. How can we begin to thank Instagram?

In addition to Bey, we've seen Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Brandy, and Victoria's Secret models in body chains. Clubgoers know it is the perfect accessory for reflecting the flash of strobe lights. Body chains are oft spotted with bikinis at the Shore.

The fear of getting tangled in the fine strands makes me want to pass on this one. Completely.

What image do you want to give off? If you're in party-party mode, dangle to your heart's content. Headed to the office? Not so much. On the way to the beach? Totally OK. But then, only fasten on one if you feel like a stunner in your bathing suit. If not, you risk looking awkward.

ewellington@phillynews.com

215-854-2704@ewellingtonphl

All jewelry at Miss Mahogany, 144 S. 60th St., 215-747-2400, www.missmahogany.com.

All clothing by designer Jovan O'Connor, www.jovanoconnor.com.