Jewelry has been used throughout history as a way to accessorize and display status, wealth, and personal style. From ancient Egyptians adorned in gold collars and lapis lazuli to Art Deco designs dripping with diamonds, jewelry has long played an integral role in fashion.
In today’s world, jewelry remains a versatile and impactful finishing touch that can update casual daywear, glamorize evening attire, and add personality to any look in between. The global jewelry industry was valued at around $356 billion in 2021, demonstrating the continued popularity and prevalence of jewelry in modern fashion.
When selecting accessories, it’s important to consider the overall style, color palette, and mood of the outfit. Your jewelry should enhance the look rather than compete with it. By keeping silhouette, fabric, color, and mood in mind, it can become easy to choose pieces that will polish your look.
Follow this guide to learn insider tips for picking elegant and on-trend jewelry that seamlessly complements every outfit you wear.
1. Choose Pieces That Express Your Style
The most important thing is that you choose the jewelry that makes you feel confident, stylish, and authentically you. Opt for pieces in your favorite metals, gemstones that complement your coloring, and silhouettes you feel beautiful in.
If you’re gravitating towards ear or body jewelry that needs a new piercing, you should be well-informed about aftercare for piercings before you go through with the process. In that case, you can accessorize your aesthetics well without worrying about the pain and potential infections due to a new piercing. If you love vintage fashion, accessorize with art deco-inspired jewelry. For an edgy vibe, stack spike and stud earrings.
Let your jewelry convey your unique personal flair. Well-chosen accessories should enhance your personal style. Don’t be afraid to break away from trends and conventional wisdom if certain pieces resonate with you. The best outfits feature jewelry that feels special and reflective of who you are.
2. Match Metals to Create Cohesion
Mixing metals is on-trend right now, but limiting jewelry to one or two metal tones creates a polished, pulled-together look. If wearing silver jewelry, opt for a stainless steel watch, silver rings, and metal hair accessories in shades like hematite or gunmetal. For a golden look, pair a gold watch, layered gold necklaces, and gold hoop earrings.
Matching metals tie the jewelry together with your outfit rather than clashing with it. However, don’t be afraid to break the rules with statement-mixed metal pieces like a gold watch paired with a chunky silver cuff.
3. Consider Necklines When Layering Necklaces
Necklaces frame the face and neckline, so consider the cut and style of your top or dress when choosing neck jewelry. Long pendants work well with deep v-necks and scoop necks as they sit nicely on the sternum. On the other hand, chokers and shorter necklaces complement crew necks and jewel necks.
For off-the-shoulder, strapless, or sweetheart necklines, opt for shoulder-grazing statement necklaces that draw attention. You can also feel free to layer dainty chains with varying lengths to highlight different necklines. Just make sure the outermost necklace complements the neckline rather than fights against it.
4. Select Earrings Based on Hairstyle
Consider current hair trends and your own hairstyle when selecting earrings for an outfit. For short haircuts like bobs or pixies, statement earrings draw attention upwards; try sculptural designs, chandeliers, or bold hoops.
If you have longer hair, you can pull them back to showcase dangly statement earrings. Similarly, for shoulder-length hair or voluminous styles, medium-sized studs or Huggies keep the focus balanced.
Those who are leaning towards an updo, go for ear cuffs and climbers, as they are perfect for showing off on bare necks and shoulders. Make sure to match metals and colors for a coordinated finish.
5. Complement Outfit Colors with Gemstones
Wearing gemstone jewelry adds pops of color and vibrancy to any outfit. When matched with the colors found in the ensemble, gemstone jewelry creates a cohesive, polished look that captures the eye.
For a navy blue dress, bring in sapphire jewelry like a pendant necklace or cocktail ring. With a pink outfit, opt for a pair of ruby earrings or a rose quartz bracelet. Similarly, for earth-tone outfits, nature-inspired gems like agate, jasper, and tiger’s eye add an organic vibe. Jewel-toned gemstones also stand out beautifully against neutral outfits. Don’t be afraid to mix and match complementary hues for extra interest.
6. Consider Scale and Proportion
When choosing jewelry, assess the scale of your outfit’s prints, embellishments, and details. Delicate jewelry complements busy prints or heavily embellished clothing, while larger jewelry makes more of a statement with simple, monochrome outfits.
Proportion is also important—a delicate bracelet balances a voluminous dress, while an oversized cuff bracelet offsets a slim-fitting pencil skirt.
Jewelry near the face, like earrings and necklaces, should be in scale with your features. The best rule of thumb is to try the jewelry on with the outfit to gauge fit and balance.
7. Play with Texture Combinations
Texture interplay creates visual interest and depth. Pairing sleek metals with natural materials like wood, shell, leather, or pearl adds compelling contrast. For a luxe look, stack metal and gemstone go well together.
You can also layer metal pendants with beaded necklaces with casual outfits, whereas to contrast the sleekness of a satin dress, go with organic agate jewelry. Complementing or contrasting outfit textures with jewelry textures elevates the look.
8. Accessorize with Current Fashion Trends
Staying up to date on jewelry trends ensures pieces feel fresh, modern, and stylish. Here’s what’s trending:
- Stacked thin hoops are trending for ears along with curved bar earrings and ear cuffs.
- Chain link necklaces, pearls, and initial pendants are popular necklace styles.
- For wrists, thin stacking bracelets, tennis bracelets, and charm bracelets are in fashion.
- Rings range from sculptural cocktail rings to engraved bands.
Watch trends include sleek minimalism, vintage revival styles, and smartwatches. For more inspirational ideas, you can also follow influencers and designers.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect finishing touches can elevate any outfit from simple to standout. By considering the color palette, neckline, textures, and details of your outfit, it becomes easy to pick jewelry that complements the overall look. Keep scale, proportion, and current fashion trends in mind to elegantly style your accessories. Most importantly, choose pieces that express your individual flair.
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