Women's jewelry trends are ever-evolving, and choosing pieces that are true to your personality and sense of style is essential to your wardrobe. You need jewelry that makes a statement without overwhelming the rest of your outfit, especially if you're looking for additions to your casual everyday look.
You'll want some versatile, lowkey jewelry options for weekend wear and timeless classics to wear to date nights and special events. Building up a collection with sufficient variety takes time, but it's a fulfilling experience that helps you showcase who you are.
Your jewelry collection should include carefully curated, high-quality necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and luxury watches to complete your ensemble. Here are the key wardrobe staples you need to make your jewelry set complete.
Statement necklaces
Fringe, bib, and collar necklaces can overwhelm some outfits but add just the right amount of flair to date night dresses. You can even pair these statement necklaces with a blazer and blouse for work, as long as the outfit itself is simple overall. Statement necklaces work incredibly well with V-neck tops and dresses but can work with others as well if the necklace doesn't get caught on the neckline.
There is a huge assortment of materials used in statement necklaces. Gold and silver are both excellent options, and they don't necessarily have to match your other jewelry. Look for at least 2-3 necklaces that coordinate with common colors in your wardrobe.
Small pendant necklace
A small pendant necklace on a delicate chain works with almost any outfit. In professional settings, it's better for your jewelry to be too subtle than overtly flashy, so a pendant necklace is always a safe, classy choice for work.
Try a necklace with a gemstone pendant, choosing a stone that holds sentimental meaning like a birthstone or favorite color. You might also consider a monochromatic pendant necklace in simple white gold or silver, so it matches with any outfit.
Cuff bracelet
Cuff bracelets make for a bold look and work best with statement necklaces and earrings in the same metal. For the best effect, select a cuff bracelet that matches the hardware on your purse. They work with short or ¾-length sleeves and can work with a long-sleeve blazer if they fit tightly and are slim enough not to interfere with the sleeves.
Cuff bracelets come in various styles and sizes and can be as elaborate or simple as you want. Leather cuffs with silver accents are a trendy choice for casual outings, but for work or dressing up in the evenings, upgrade your accessories to solid gold or silver.
Chain bracelets
Chain bracelets are usually plain, but some have a large charm on them for added flair. They add texture and visual interest to your arms, especially if you're wearing short sleeves. They're an essential summer staple but can work well year-round with pantsuits and simple blouses.
Single-chain bracelets and multi-chain bracelets each serve different purposes. Bracelets with multiple chains have a similar effect to cuff bracelets, while single-chain bracelets are more refined and minimalistic. Keep at least one of each in your collection, especially if you find ones with cute charms that match your personality.
Luxury watches
Luxury watches are a powerful asset, especially for women with big career goals. Even one designer watch can give you an edge in your professional appearance, but having multiple watches gives you more options for work and play.
Sleek, simple watches with metal bands have a different aesthetic than watches with bold colors and elaborate designs. Metal bands pair great with outfits in various work and formal settings since they look like jewelry. Leather bands also are fantastic for work but pair better with casual wear than with dresses or other evening attire.
Brands like Cartier and Rolex are known for their watches for women, but other designer brands have unique offerings as well. You can also look at Blancpain for watches with pops of color and stylish flair and at Omega watches for a sleek and polished appearance. If you want a bold rectangular watch face in a more modern style that goes with any pantsuit, check out Jaeger-LeCoultre.
Keep in mind that even watches that are casual in appearance can offer high-end features. Extras like calendars and chronographs add value to your luxury watch and are available in various watch styles, so you don't have to choose between form and function.
Stud earrings
Stud earrings are an everyday staple that every woman should have in her jewelry box. Look for models that sit close to the earlobe and align with your style so you can pop them on every morning and instantly elevate your look for the day.
Select earrings made of high-quality precious metals like gold or silver for a long-lasting pair that won't irritate your skin or wear in the shower. Invest in one or two sets of durable earrings. With one yellow and one white gold pair, you've got a look to complement any outfit.
Drop and hoop earrings
While your stud earrings are an everyday item that you'll want to be subtle with, drop and hoop earrings are where you can express your individuality. These fun and elegant accessories are perfect for a night out or a special occasion like a wedding. Drop earrings pair beautifully with an updo and minimalistic jewelry, so they become the focus. For maximum versatility, invest in one pair of simple white gold drop earrings that go with anything and slowly build a unique collection of dangling earrings in quirky designs over time.
Hoop earrings come in many sizes and can range from casual to chic, depending on how you finesse your look around them. A quality set of gold hoops enhance any jewelry box, and you can wear them in all seasons while looking fabulous.
Cocktail ring
In addition to any engagement or wedding rings you wear, your jewelry collection will benefit from a few unique cocktail rings. Cocktail rings have a history of being fun and inviting, but a high-end cocktail ring can also add power and status to your outfit. They're perfect for girls' night out and other social events.
Look for cocktail rings in a quirky shape; hearts, flowers, and bold pave bands are all good options depending on your preferences. Invest in a high-quality ring with genuine stones or a precious metal band to avoid creating a look that verges on campy.
Allow your style to evolve
Once you curate a jewelry collection you love, understand you may need to switch out the pieces you're wearing periodically because they go out of fashion or don't currently suit your look. Trends come and go, so while you may retire a piece temporarily in favor of something new, you'll eventually circle back to your beloved classics.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. We want to hear from you! What are your go-to accessories? Why? How big is your accessories collection? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!
