Jewelry is one of the best ways to personalize your style. Multiples of a repeated point are dynamic. Endless strands of pearls have defined Chanel for decades. Young women coined the phrase arm party to designate their clique. How do mature women pull off jewelry layering without looking like we’re society doyennes or trying to fit in at Coachella?
For an impactful look, connection between the pieces is key. The eye is then drawn in to appreciate each special piece on its own. We’ve been seeing delicate, small gold jewelry, or so-called bitsy jewelry, layered in a free-spirited look. I’ve seen fashion influencers take this look a step further by adding jewelry that has no relatable elements–like plastic beads, leather, and string. It’s a bit too freewheeling for me–a muted mess that doesn’t do much for the outfit. However, I do subscribe to mixing metals; although I regularly get pulled in to the shock of gleaming gold knuckles, or a wrist wrapped in cool silver.
It’s important to consider your entire ensemble when orchestrating your jewelry layering. If you’re wearing a classic navy skirt suit, don’t layer pearls–it’s too stuffy. Save the a la Chanel layering for leather pants and silk blouse, to add sophistication.
Jewelry layering looks fashionable, and hip. Here are some of my tricks.
I started with the coin medallion necklace. I felt like it needed some sparkle, so on came the long gold chain with a few dangling crystals. A crystal choker took it to modern. Sometimes adding something random, taking risks and playing with different ideas, is what raises the combination to a different level.
I wanted a boho look with this romantic outfit, and sterling silver often gives that vibe. The ruffled cuff set the tone for piling on more simple pieces to go against it.
These brooches and earrings are all neutral–good to have some calm when layering so many pieces.
Gold and organic was the theme here. Since Gucci recently introduced major rings on every finger, I love piling them on when my nails are done! All of the gold sizzles up a basic outfit.
The shape, and organic beads in these stretch bracelets unifies this arm party. Looks great with a pastel leather jacket.
The simplicity and coloring in these neutral rings blends into a cohesive look.
Photos: Dawn Bell Solich