Jewelry—it’s a small fashion detail that’s often overlooked.
How much could a pair of earrings really matter? The answer is: a lot!
Matching jewelry to your outfit can make or break a look, so read on to learn more about how to coordinate jewelry with your outfit.
1. Match the Occasion
The first thing you’ll want to consider when choosing jewelry for a particular day is the occasion. This is arguably the most important aspect of choosing jewelry.
Why? Because jewelry that doesn’t match the context of the event or outfit sticks out like a sore thumb.
While a giant diamond necklace may not be a bad idea for a black-tie gala, it’s going to look out of place if you wear it to work. Likewise, a pair of simple studs may do the trick for work, but don’t work as well at a formal dinner.
If you can match your jewelry to the occasion, you’ve already won half the battle!
2. Check the Neckline
This tip is more specific to your particular style choices. When it comes to matching jewelry and wardrobe, your first instinct should be to examine the neckline. This will likely determine what kind of jewelry you’ll want to wear.
Take v-necks, for example. With this elegant neckline, you have two necklace options. You can mirror the v, making for a nice layered effect. Or you can add some contrast to the outfit by choosing a more curved necklace (such as a short chain or even a choker.)
On the other side of the neckline spectrum is the turtleneck. A high-necked shirt or sweater is best paired with a longer necklace for contrast.
Sometimes, the best necklace for a turtleneck is no necklace at all! Try a pair of dangly earrings instead.
3. Contrast in Complexity
Jewelry is a great way to add both contrast and balance to an outfit. It’s important to consider the complexity of your outfit before grabbing that chunky necklace.
Think about it: if you were wearing a shirt with a busy floral pattern, you’d probably want to pair it with a solid pant, like some chinos or a good pair of jeans.
The same concept applies to jewelry. If your outfit is already bursting with patterns and colors, your best bet is to choose simple jewelry, like some pearl studs or cz rings.
4. Match Accessories to… More Accessories!
When it comes to jewelry, you not only have to match your clothes but your other accessories, too.
It’s generally a good idea to be consistent with your metal tone throughout an outfit, so pair a gold necklace with some gold earrings.
For bonus points, consider matching your jewelry to other accessories like purses or shoes. If you’re wearing a pair of loafers with a silver buckle, add silver jewelry to your ensemble. If your purse has a rose gold clasp, follow suit and wear some rose gold rings.
5. Color Coordinate
You can also use color to add balance and contrast to your outfit.
If you’re wearing warm colors, add some cool jewel tones or metals like silver and platinum to your outfit. If you’re wearing cool colors, try adding a warmer rose gold or yellow gold for contrast.
How to Coordinate Jewelry with Your Outfit: Other Tips
These are only a few ideas to help you learn how to coordinate jewelry with your outfit. But the most important teaching tool that you have is experience.
Take time to experiment with your jewelry and really get to know what you have at your disposal. Soon enough, you’ll be a jewelry matching pro! To learn more about jewelry, check out our other blog posts.
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