Jewelry isn't just an accessory; it's a statement that can make or break an outfit.

The right piece can elevate an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary, but the key lies in knowing how to perfectly choose jewelry for your outfit.

Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or just accentuating your daily style, here's a guide for women like us on selecting the right jewelry for any outfit, and it’s filled with lots of helpful tips and tricks!

In this post, I’m going to cover how to match jewelry with the occasion, complement your outfit’s color scheme, scale your jewelry to your clothes, learn how to NOT over-accessorize, choose the right jewelry for your body type and face shape, choose between timeless and trendy pieces, and the best tools for maintaining your jewelry.

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Understand Your Outfit’s Style and Color

Match Jewelry with the Occasion

When it comes to selecting jewelry, the occasion is your best guide.

For formal or business events - choose pieces that are elegant and professional without overshadowing your overall look. Consider a pair of delicate pearl earrings (image above, left) or a simple gold chain link necklace; these choices are timeless and provide a level of sophistication. In a business environment, it's often about complementing your outfit without making a loud statement. You want your colleagues and clients to focus on your professionalism, and your jewelry should enhance, not distract from, this image.

For casual events - there's a lot more freedom to express your personal style. This is where I recommend experimenting with trends or wearing bolder, more unique pieces. Think layered necklaces, chunky bracelets, or earrings with vibrant colors (image above, right) and designs. A casual setting is a fun way to show off your individuality and creativity through your jewelry choices. It's also a great time to experiment with mixed metals, unusual textures, or handcrafted pieces that add a visual element to your outfit. The idea is to have fun and let your jewelry reflect your personality, whether you're going for a boho-chic look with wooden beads and tassels or a sleek, modern vibe with geometric-shaped metal pieces.

Complement Your Outfit's Color Scheme

The color of your clothing can greatly influence which jewelry will harmonize best.

For outfits with cool tones — think blues, greens, and purples — silver, platinum, and white gold jewelry can be exceptionally flattering. These metals reflect the cool undertones in your outfit, creating a cohesive and sophisticated look. Imagine silver earrings (image above, left) paired with a navy blue dress; the combination is not just harmonious but also exudes an elegant look.

For outfits with warm tones - like reds, oranges, and yellows, gold and rose gold are your go-to options. These metals bring out the warmth in your clothing, creating a rich and inviting palette. A gold bracelet (image above, middle) with a coral dress, for instance, can add a touch of glamour and warmth, enhancing the overall appeal of your attire. The key here is to create a sense of continuity in your color scheme, where your jewelry and outfit seem to effortlessly complement each other.

When it comes to dressing in a multicolored ensemble, the approach shifts slightly. Here, the aim is to create a focal point by selecting one dominant color from your outfit and echoing it in your jewelry. This technique not only draws attention to your chosen hue but also brings an element of cohesion to your overall look. For example, if your outfit includes shades of blue, green, and yellow, choosing a piece of jewelry that highlights one of these colors can tie the look together beautifully. This could mean choosing soft blue earrings (image above, right) if light blue is your accent. This strategy is particularly effective in bringing balance and harmony to multicolored or patterned outfits, ensuring that your look is cohesive yet dynamic.

Balance is Key

Scale Your Jewelry with Your Attire

The scale of your jewelry in relation to your outfit is a crucial aspect of styling that can make or break your overall look. When you're wearing an outfit rich in patterns or heavy in embellishments, the goal is to avoid visual clutter. This is where simplicity becomes your ally in the world of jewelry. Opting for understated pieces ensures that your outfit takes center stage while the jewelry plays an understated yet elegant role. Imagine wearing a floral print dress that's vibrant and busy; pairing it with a simple pair of stud earrings or a thin, delicate bracelet can provide a touch of sophistication without competing for attention. The idea is to let the outfit shine and keep the jewelry muted yet graceful.

On the other end of the spectrum, when your outfit is plain or monochromatic, this is where bold, statement jewelry comes into play. A plain canvas gives you the freedom to express creativity through your accessories. A chunky necklace, oversized earrings, or a bold cocktail ring can act as the focal point of your ensemble, adding an element of interest and excitement. For instance, pairing a simple black dress with a statement necklace can transform the look from basic to chic and stylish. The key here is to choose one statement piece that stands out rather than multiple large pieces that might overwhelm your look.

This balance between the scale of your jewelry and the complexity of your attire is essential in creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing ensemble. It’s about understanding the visual weight of your outfit and choosing jewelry that complements rather than competes with it. By doing so, you can ensure that both your attire and your jewelry are showcased effectively, each enhancing the beauty of the other. Whether it's embracing simplicity with an embellished outfit or making a bold statement against a plain backdrop, the right scale of jewelry can elevate your style quotient significantly.

Don’t Over-Accessorize

It's tempting to wear all your favorite pieces at once, but the concept of "less is often more" holds a significant place, especially when it comes to accessorizing. It’s tempting to wear all your favorite jewelry pieces at once, but this approach can lead to a cluttered and unfocused look. The key to impactful accessorizing is not in the quantity of the pieces you wear but in the careful selection and coordination of a few well-chosen items.

Consider this scenario: you’ve chosen a bold, eye-catching necklace as part of your ensemble. This piece, perhaps a large pendant or a multi-layered chain, is meant to be the star of your look. To maintain the focus on this statement piece, it's advisable to keep the rest of your jewelry understated. This could mean skipping earrings altogether or opting for small, delicate studs that don't compete for attention. The same principle applies in reverse; if you decide to wear large, dramatic earrings, it's best to forgo a necklace or choose a very subtle one, allowing your earrings to shine as the focal point.

This approach of not over-accessorizing is about creating a sense of balance and harmony in your overall appearance. Each piece of jewelry should have its moment to shine without being overshadowed or cluttered by too many other elements. It’s also important to consider the neckline of your outfit in this equation. For instance, a high neckline might pair better with bold earrings and no necklace, while a plunging neckline could be the perfect canvas for a striking necklace.

Remember, every piece of jewelry you wear should contribute to the story your outfit is telling.

If you feel like you are over-accessorizing, you can follow a rule Coco Chanel lived by…get completely dressed and then remove one accessory.

By choosing to wear fewer pieces, you allow each item to make a more significant impact. This selective approach not only enhances your overall look but also gives a chic and sophisticated air to your style.

Consider Your Body Type and Face Shape

Jewelry for Your Body Type

The impact of jewelry extends beyond aesthetics; it also plays a role in complementing and enhancing your body type. Understanding how different styles of jewelry align with various body shapes can be a game-changer in crafting a look that's not just stylish but also flattering to your natural form.

For Petite Body Types:

Long Necklaces: Opt for necklaces that create vertical lines, helping to elongate your frame. A delicate, long chain or a pendant that falls just above the midsection can add the illusion of height.
Proportionate Scale: Ensure the jewelry is proportionate to your frame. Avoid oversized pendants or chunky beads that might overpower a smaller physique. Stick to slimmer, more streamlined designs.
Vertical Designs: Jewelry with vertical lines or patterns can further enhance the elongation effect.

For Shorter Stature:

Shorter Necklaces: Choose necklaces that sit at or just below the collarbone. This length is flattering and doesn’t overwhelm your figure.
Choker-Style Necklaces: Chokers or small pendants are excellent as they draw focus upwards, balancing the proportions of your body without shortening your torso.
Elegant Accents: Look for designs that accentuate your neckline and face, such as delicate details or subtle sparkle.

For Taller Body Types:

Statement Pieces: Being tall gives you the canvas to wear bold, statement jewelry. Large necklaces, chunky bracelets, and big rings can look proportionate and striking. These pieces stand out without getting lost in your stature.
Layering Necklaces: Taller individuals can beautifully pull off layered necklaces. The varying lengths create a visual break, which can be particularly flattering on a longer torso.
Long Earrings: Tall women can elegantly carry off long, dangling earrings. They draw attention to the face and neck without making you appear too elongated.
Bigger Bangles and Cuffs: Large wrists can be adorned with wider bangles or cuffs, which look proportional and stylish.

For Heavier Body Types:

Medium-Length Necklaces: Necklaces that sit at or just below the collarbone are ideal. They draw attention to the neckline without being constrictive. Overly short necklaces, like chokers, might not be as flattering.
Statement Earrings: Earrings that are bold or have some length can beautifully frame the face. This can be a great way to add a pop of style and personality to your look.
Broader Bracelets: Opt for broader bracelets or bangles. Thin bracelets can get lost on a larger wrist, whereas wider designs can be more proportionate and noticeable.
Cocktail Rings: Bold rings can be a fantastic choice. They draw attention to your hands and can be a fun way to add color and sparkle to your outfit.

Apart from necklaces, the choice of earrings and bracelets can also be influenced by your body type. Longer, dangling earrings can be great for those looking to add some length to their face and neck area, while those with a broader frame might opt for smaller studs or hoop earrings to maintain a balanced look. When it comes to bracelets and rings, consider your hand and wrist size. Slender, delicate pieces can flatter smaller hands, whereas bolder, chunkier styles might be more suitable for those with larger hands or longer fingers.

Earrings for Face Shape

Earrings are more than just accessories; they can be tools for enhancing your facial features when chosen with your face shape in mind. The right pair of earrings has the power to balance and accentuate your natural beauty, creating a look that's both flattering and harmonious.

For a round face, the goal is to elongate and add definition. Long, dangling earrings are particularly effective as they draw the eye downwards, creating an illusion of a longer, slimmer face. These could be simple drop earrings or more intricate chandeliers – the key is their vertical orientation, which counteracts the roundness of the face. Avoid large, circular earrings, hoops, or button studs as they can emphasize the roundness and make the face appear wider.

If you have an angular or square face with more pronounced jawlines, the idea is to soften these angles. Earrings with curves and rounded edges are ideal for this. Hoop earrings, circular studs, or designs with curves and swirls can provide a nice contrast to the sharp angles of your face. These shapes add a softening effect, bringing a more balanced look to your features.

For those with an oval face shape, the options are quite versatile as this face shape is considered quite balanced already. Almost any style of earring can complement an oval face, but to enhance it further, consider teardrop or oval-shaped earrings. These mimic the face's natural contours, highlighting its symmetry and balance.

If you have a heart-shaped face, where the face is wider at the forehead and tapers down to a narrow chin, earrings that are wider at the bottom than the top work well. This could mean choosing teardrop styles or pyramid-shaped earrings, as they add width around the lower part of your face, balancing the narrower chin.

And for those with a long or rectangular face, the objective is to make the face appear slightly wider. Studs or short dangle earrings are ideal as they focus attention around the cheekbones and add width to this area. Large circular earrings, hoops, or earrings with a wide bottom can also help in adding the illusion of breadth to the face.

Stay True to Your Style

Keep Up with Trends, But Don't Compromise Your Style

Keeping up with the latest trends can be exciting and refreshing. However, it's important to balance being trendy and staying true to your style. Jewelry is not just an adornment; it's a form of self-expression, a reflection of your personality and individuality. The key is to incorporate trends to enhance your personal style rather than overpowering it.

Featured above, left: gold stud earrings, above, right: tortoise gold criss-cross earrings

When you come across a new trend, ask yourself if it fits your personal style and taste. Does this trend complement your existing wardrobe and align with your aesthetic? If you're drawn to minimalistic, understated pieces, a sudden shift to oversized, bold jewelry simply because it's trending might feel inappropriate with your style. Instead, you could interpret the trend in a way that suits you – perhaps a smaller, more refined version of a trendy item.

It's also important to consider the versatility and longevity of a trendy piece. Can it be paired with multiple outfits and occasions, or is it too specific and likely to go out of style quickly? Opting for pieces that are trendy yet versatile makes sure they won't end up sitting unworn in your jewelry box. For instance, if layered necklaces are in vogue, consider how these layers can be mixed and matched with your existing collection or worn separately to suit different looks.

Just remember that fashion trends are there to inspire you, not to control you. You don't have to follow every trend out there; just go with what you like. Jewelry trends should add some fun and excitement to your style, not make it boring. It's totally cool to mix and match modern trends with classic pieces to create a look that's all you.

Timeless Over Trendy

There's a very valid reason for choosing timeless jewelry pieces over strictly following trends. While staying on top of the latest styles can be fun and refreshing, investing in classic investment pieces offers a more sustainable and enduring approach to style. Timeless jewelry not only stands the test of time in terms of durability but also in style and elegance.

A classic pair of diamond studs exemplifies the epitome of timeless elegance. They are the quintessential go-to for any occasion, effortlessly transitioning from day to night. Their simplicity and brilliance complement any outfit, making them a staple in any jewelry collection. Similarly, a simple gold necklace, whether it’s a delicate chain or a classic pendant, offers versatility and enduring appeal. It can be the subtle highlight of a professional ensemble or add a touch of elegance to a casual outfit.

Another example of a timeless piece is a sophisticated bracelet, like a tennis bracelet or a gold bangle. These pieces are not only versatile but also hold their value and appeal over the years. They can be worn alone for a subtle statement or layered for a more personalized look. The beauty of these classic pieces is that they transcend trends and age, becoming a part of your signature style.

Investing in timeless jewelry also means choosing quality over quantity. These pieces are often crafted with superior materials and attention to detail, ensuring they last for years and potentially become heirlooms. Moreover, their enduring style means they are less likely to end up as unworn, outdated items in your jewelry box.

Trends come and go but timeless pieces serve as an anchor in your wardrobe. They provide a foundation around which you can build and accessorize with more trendy or experimental pieces. This approach not only ensures that your style remains classic and sophisticated but also allows for more creativity in how you pair and layer different types of jewelry.

Maintenance and Care

The right care products are important to keep your jewelry in good shape. Here’s a list of some key items that can help maintain the sparkle and integrity of your precious pieces:

1. Jewelry Cleaning Solutions: Specialized cleaning solutions are available for different types of jewelry. For example, there are specific cleaners for silver jewelry, gold jewelry, and gemstones. It’s crucial to choose the right solution based on the material of your jewelry to avoid any damage.

2. Polishing Cloths: A high-quality polishing cloth is indispensable for maintaining the shine of metal pieces. These cloths are usually treated with a gentle polishing agent and are perfect for quick touch-ups and removing tarnish, especially on silver.

3. Soft-Bristled Brushes: A very soft-bristled brush is ideal for cleaning intricate pieces or gemstones. The soft bristles can dislodge dirt and grime without scratching the jewelry.

4. Ultrasonic Cleaners: For a deeper clean, ultrasonic cleaners can be very effective, especially for hard gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. However, they are not suitable for all gem types, so it’s important to do your research before using one on your jewelry.

5. Jewelry Storage Boxes or Organizers: A good storage solution is crucial for protecting your jewelry. Look for a jewelry box with soft lining and different compartments or slots for different types of jewelry. For travel, consider a travel jewelry organizer to keep your pieces safe and untangled.

6. Anti-Tarnish Strips: These anti-tarnish strips can be placed in your jewelry box to prevent tarnishing, especially on silver pieces. They absorb the pollutants in the air that cause tarnishing.

7. Ziplock Bags or Airtight Containers: For pieces that are rarely used, storing them in airtight bags or containers can prevent tarnish and protect them from dust and moisture.

8. Jewelry Pouches: Soft pouches are great for storing individual pieces, especially when you’re traveling. They protect the jewelry from scratches and keep each piece separate from others.