How to Style Statement Jewelry: 6 Expert Tips

Statement jewelry is one of the big trends on red carpets and runways at the moment. But if you’re not accustomed to wearing bold brooches or large cocktail rings (and usually go for more demure pieces like pearl studs or tennis bracelets), it can be difficult knowing how to style these big looks without looking out of place. We went to the expert, Rachel Akmakjian, Director of Jeweler Relations for BriteCo, to get some solid tips.

What Is Statement Jewelry?

If you’re still wondering what exactly is statement jewelry, it’s basically any piece that provides a big, bold, dramatic visual. It can be earrings, rings, necklaces, or any other type of jewelry, but it will always wow, whether due to size, color, patterns, materials used, artistic flair, or any other kind of design element.

No matter what you choose to wear, here are some tips for how to style any of these pieces.

1. Use Statement Jewelry As a Building Block

Rather than thinking of your statement piece as an accessory that you just throw on at the last minute as you rush out the door, start thinking of it as a building block within your greater wardrobe. How can you build an outfit around it?

For example, say you have a gorgeous, long, layered necklace with lots of color. Starting there, consider what pieces of clothing would pair best with it. Which suit or dress in your closet is going to offer the right neckline to pair with that necklace? How can you play off the vibrancy by choosing complimentary colors for the rest of your outfit?

“Think of your outfit as a frame that enhances the art of your jewelry,” suggests Akmakjian. “Balance is key with proportion and placement. If you’re wearing a dramatic necklace, skip the big earrings and vice versa. Pair bold jewelry with simple silhouettes and neutral tones to create harmony.”

2. Go Easy at First

While some people can throw on all sorts of statement pieces and look effortlessly chic, others of us will try to do the same and end up looking like we’re playing dress up.

If you don’t have a ton of experience incorporating bolder or larger pieces of jewelry into your look, go easy and small to start. Only wear one piece of statement jewelry at a time and pair bold pieces with more low-key outfits. For example, if you’re wearing a large brooch, you might opt for a simple monochrome top. If you’re wearing a pair of statement earrings, you might forgo a necklace entirely and keep your hair and makeup minimal.

“Try one standout piece with your usual go-to looks like a statement necklace with a white button-down, or geometric earrings with a plain T-shirt,” says Akmakjian. “Mixing metals or layering delicate chains with a single bold pendant is another effortless way to elevate everyday style.”

3. Consider Where You Want to Draw Attention

A statement piece is going to draw attention — but not just to the jewelry. It’ll also draw eyes to whatever is around the piece of jewelry.  As such, think about how you might want that statement piece to focus on a specific part of your outfit or body.

For example, a statement ring might play up a new manicure. Or, statement earrings may draw attention to a new haircut, while a statement necklace may bring out your decolletage.

As you keep in mind what exactly you’d like to draw attention to, also think about what you’d like to direct attention away from. If you need a manicure, for instance, you might opt not to wear a statement ring. If you’ve recently scraped your chin, you might stay clear of a large choker necklace that sits directly beneath it.

4. Remember That Opposites Attract

A general rule for styling any outfit is that opposites attract. A tight-fitting top works well with looser-fitting bottoms and vice versa. A bold patterned piece can pair well with a solid-color piece.

The same can be said for statement jewelry, whether pairing colors or sizes and overall styles that might work well together. For example, a floral statement necklace can accent a more masculine or androgynous outfit. An elegant and luxurious pair of earrings can add intrigue to jeans and a T-shirt. A choker that feels retro or vintage can liven up a modern, contemporary designer fit.

Akmakjian says the most common mistake she sees is over-accessorizing. “When everything competes for attention, nothing stands out. Whether it’s a bold necklace, sculptural earrings, or a chunky bracelet, it should be the focal point. In contrast, let it shine by keeping other accessories and outfit details minimal.”

5. Check Social Media for Inspiration

If you consider yourself a visual learner, go to the pros for inspiration. Social media stylists will clue you in to what jewelry is trending and how to wear it and pair it. Last year, it was all about the mob wife aesthetic, but jewelry trends are always changing and following the right accounts can keep you attuned to what you need to know, right now.

When it comes to statement trends, Akmakjian has a few she really likes: “Right now, sculptural and organic forms are having a big moment with molten metal finishes and asymmetrical shapes. Colorful gemstones and chunky mixed materials like resin or enamel are also trending, adding a playful energy to both casual and evening looks.”

6. Make a Statement with Confidence

Last (and certainly not least) remember that statement pieces are intended to do just that: make a statement. As such, don’t be afraid to wear yours with bravado.

“Confidence comes from intention,” says Akmakjian. “Choose pieces that reflect your personal style and mood, not just what’s trendy. When you genuinely love what you’re wearing, it shows. A statement piece should feel like an extension of you, not a costume.”

There are no truly wrong jewelry choices, so if you love a certain look, don’t let any guide to styling dissuade you from wearing it.

How to Style Statement Jewelry FAQs

What Does Statement Jewelry Mean?

Statement jewelry refers to any pieces that make a statement. They’re often large, bold, brightly-colored, and feature unique design elements that draw the eye in.

When Did Statement Jewelry Become Popular?

Statement jewelry has been popular in various forms throughout many time periods (which is why you’ll often see a range of large and flashy cocktail rings available for purchase in vintage and antique stores). More recent appreciation for statement necklaces really began in the 2010s. Since then, other statement pieces have taken center stage, such as brooches.

Where Can You See Statement Jewelry in Pop Culture?

In the 2000s and 2010s, statement jewelry was popularized on shows like “Gossip Girl” and “Pretty Little Liars.” Recently, renewed appreciation for “Sex and the City” has helped make nameplate statement necklaces popular again.

Can You Insure Statement Jewelry?

Yes! You can definitely insure statement jewelry. Keep in mind that statement jewelry is different from costume jewelry, which is typically made of lesser-quality materials and which might not be suitable for insurance. But true quality statement pieces are worth protecting.

Where Can You Buy Statement Jewelry?

You can buy statement jewelry just about anywhere that you can buy traditional jewelry. Many retailers carry affordable costume pieces all the way to designer statement jewelry, to vintage and antique options and everything in-between.

Need More Styling Help? BriteCo Has Your Back

Get more tips for how to style and care for your jewelry, on the BriteCo blog.

Then, make sure all your jewelry is safe with BriteCo’s comprehensive specialty jewelry insurance. Whether you have a favorite engagement ring, statement necklace, or luxury watch, jewelry insurance can protect it in case of a natural disaster, loss or mysterious disappearance, theft, or damage.

BriteCo’s coverage goes beyond what homeowners or renters insurance can provide. While homeowners and renters insurance policies often include some basic coverage for personal items, it’s typically not enough to cover the cost, and these policies won’t protect you under certain circumstances, like if you lose your engagement ring or it’s damaged while you’re traveling. Specialized jewelry insurance from BriteCo helps fill the gaps.

Get your free and easy insurance quote today.

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