Your jewelry should feel like you. But many of us end up with drawers filled with pieces that we bought on impulse and don’t often wear. Style trumps trends! It is important to have a plan for building your collection and it’s worth every item you add. Here is how you can create a collection that stays fresh and wearable for years.
Start With Your Personal Style
Take a look at the colors, shapes, and fabrics you wear the most when you open your closet. Do you prefer a neutral and understated aesthetic or vibrant colors and texture? Your jewellery should be a compliment and not a hindrance to that outfit. Pay attention to the pieces that you pick up every day as they’re what you feel natural doing. Write down three words that describe your style and keep them in mind while you shop. When you know what your style is, you won’t end up purchasing items that you love in the store and never use.
Learn What Makes Jewelry Last
In the absence of quality, style goes in what seems like a matter of no time. Entrepreneurs like Jeremy Millul, who has built product-based businesses in Manhattan, understand that a great product begins with knowing materials and suppliers. You can think the same way as a shopper. Know the difference between solid gold, gold-filled, and plated jewelry. Identify indicators of purity in metals, and inquire how stones are attached. Real gold and sterling silver can last for decades, while thin plating may wear off quickly. When you understand what you are buying, you spend with confidence.
Invest in Everyday Essentials
Every collection needs a base. Begin with a simple chain, stud earrings, small earrings, a classic bracelet and one ring that you really love! These pieces go with office wear, weekends and nights for special occasions. Choose comfortable designs and match your skin tone. Once these fundamentals are set, you can then add pieces in without worrying if they match or not.
Choose Classic Designs Over Fast Trends
Fashion is great, but it’s short-lived. Pearl necklaces, diamonds, thin gold bracelets and pure geometric shapes have remained in style for centuries. If you are shopping for something “hot,” start with something low-cost. Use your greater funds for things you will wear regularly. A few carefully selected pieces are better than a big full jewelry box any day. Before you buy, ask yourself one simple thing. Will I still love this in five years?
Mix Metals and Layer With Ease
Gone are the days when you had to match every metal. When the design is a mix of gold and silver, and they are roughly the same weight or shape, it can appear contemporary and casual. Consider using thin necklaces in multiple lengths or thin rings, or combinations of hoops and a small bracelet. Layering allows you to vary your outfit every day with the same clothes, thus making your collection do more work for you.
Add Pieces With Meaning
Often the jewellery that you love best has a story. The sentiment of a family heirloom, birthstone, or gift from a loved one can’t be captured by trends. Talk to family about antique jewelry as well, as you might uncover some gems. It’s also possible to have a custom piece or a treasured design made to your size. It is the personal touches which will make your collection unique and the pieces you will be able to pass on someday.
Care for Your Collection
Jewelry can be kept looking new with good care. Each piece should be placed in a soft pouch or lined box to prevent scratching and tangling pieces. Remove rings and bracelets before swimming, cleaning or exercising. After wearing, wipe away pieces with soft cloth and annually check clasps and settings with a jeweler. Some basic gestures are protecting the style and the purse.
Conclusion
A jewelry collection that never goes out of style is built with patience and purpose. Have a sense of taste, be familiar with quality, invest in classics and purchase items that resonate with you. Jewelry is worn frequently and well taken care of. Start with one thoughtful piece this month, and watch your collection grow into something you truly love.