Starting a jewellery collection from square one can seem overwhelming. You’ve probably been scrolling through Instagram, seeing influencers throwing on perfectly curated jewellery, and thought, ‘Where do I start?’
Building the jewellery collection of your dreams is easier and more fun than you may think. Here is your hassle-free guide to collecting jewellery you’ll love, wear and cherish for years.
Know Your vibe
The first item on the agenda is the most essential step for building your jewellery collection: knowing your vibe. Are you a minimalist who loves clean lines and subtle shine? Or are you more of a bold aesthetic, wearing chunky rings, chains, or statement pendants?
Your personal style should always be the guiding factor when building a collection so that every piece, bold or subtle, feels authentic and, most importantly, comfortable.
Layering is Not Just a Trend
Layering is not just a trend but the secret to curating style. Doubling up men’s chains, stacking bracelets, or layering rings can create extra coolness on an otherwise basic look.
Keep it fun and natural; don’t overthink it. If you’re new to layering, keep it simple. Try a thin Figaro chain with a slightly chunkier Cuban or rope chain. Stack a few rings together. Have fun with it.
Pendants & Personalisation
Jewellery is about self-expression—what better way than wearing pendants and/or personalisation? Select pendants you connect to—initials, symbols or zodiac signs. Vintage pieces are a good option because they give the piece a story.
The pieces you wear become conversation starters, a keepsake that likely did not start and end as a piece of jewellery but has since become meaningful past being an item you wear.
Consider Versatility
Versatility is king. When you’re starting with a clean slate, be sure to select classic options that can transition from casual to formal. For example, gold or silver hoops can be worn with joggers and a T-shirt just as easily as they can be worn with a suit.
Discover Vintage & Second Hand
Collecting does not have to mean that all items are new. Vintage or second-hand items add personality and heritage to your jewellery collection. Plus, vintage shops or online marketplaces can sometimes be like treasure hunts looking for unique finds from the past.
You may find an engraved pendant, a 1980s square link chain, or funky rings with some past use or history. These add interest and uniqueness to your collection—something that mass-produced items can’t offer. So don’t be afraid to shop for lightly worn jewellery at your local vintage store or online.
Mix it Up with Mixed Metals
Do not be scared to mix it up. While many people think wearing silver and gold jewellery together is a fashion faux pas, mixing your metals is an experimental way to create dimension to your look.
For example, wear a silver square link chain with a gold Cuban bracelet or mix metals on your fingers or ears. Mixing metals is fresh and effortless. Remember, your style’s rules are for you to define.
Milestone Pieces
Jewellery can be a heartfelt reminder of an accomplishment or milestone, whether that’s a graduation, wedding day, or first overseas trip. These pieces go beyond aesthetics and give you special thoughts whenever you wear them.
Care & Longevity
Caring for your jewellery should be easy and habitual, not a hassle. A simple product, like a cleaning cloth or a gentle cleaner, can significantly enhance the piece’s life and prolong its fresh look.
Properly storing a piece of jewellery so it doesn’t become tangled (like a chain) will also change its lifespan.
Enjoy the Process!
Finally, don’t rush. Creating your collection should be a fun, steady journey, not a sprint.
Take your time, trust the process, and collect what you like. Your jewellery will reflect your tastes, growing and evolving with your style.