When it comes to expressing your style, there is no shortage of means to do so. One of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal is jewelry. Whether you fancy yourself a traditionalist, crave a minimalist approach, champion the modern, or gravitate toward maximalist, donning the right accessories can speak louder than words. Likewise, there are a few mistakes that can actually detract from the message you are trying to send, or worse, send an entirely different one than you intended. Here are seven common jewelry styling mistakes and how you can avoid them so that you rest assured your jewelry complements, not competes, with your style. 

A statement piece is intended to do just that: make a statement. What happens when you have one too many? Your outfit suddenly becomes a cacophony of statements that compete for who is the loudest. Perhaps it isn’t even that you have multiple bold accessories, it could be that you’ve paired an oversized pendant necklace with a multi-colored or textured blouse or a chunky bracelet with multiple cocktail rings; things not only become chaotic, the eye of the beholder doesn’t know where to look. Choose one thing as your focal point and let it do the talking. 

While it may be an eye-catching pair of earrings, they in no way flatter the shape of your face. We have a great article on jewelry that pairs best with your face shape – knowing what your best features are so you can choose the right pieces to accentuate them is priority when wearing jewelry. However, jewelry is worn on the body, too, so, consider the scale and proportion of the piece against the size of your frame when deciding which jewelry to wear. It’s all about balance. 

      3. Mixing Metals Without Intention 

You may have heard of the 2:1:1 rule: two parts one element, one part a different element, and one part a statement piece, gemstone, or accent piece.  A great ratio to keep in mind as it ensures your combination is intentional and balanced, while still representing your style. 

     4. Mismatching Jewelry with the Occasion 

We’ve all been there: overdressing or underdressing for the occasion. The same can apply to your jewelry. What is great for brunch with the girls does not translate to being great for a black-tie gala. Know your event and dress code and choose your pieces accordingly.  

     5. Clashing with Your Neckline 

This really applies to which necklace(s) you choose, but could go for earrings, too. Let the shape and cut of your neckline guide your choice(s). We have a great article on choosing the perfect necklace and it talks about why a pendant works well with a V-neck, while a strapless top pairs better with a choker. 

     6. Chasing Trends is Fun, but Classics are Forever 

A trendy piece can make a fun statement, but don’t make them the foundation of your ensemble. Investing in classics can still reflect your taste and won’t feel dated next season. They also make great heirlooms. 

     7. Neglecting Jewelry Care 

Perhaps the most important “rule”, but also most overlooked, is taking care of your jewelry. Whatever your style is, nothing dulls it quicker than tarnished or damaged pieces. Regular cleaning and proper storage will keep them looking their best for years to come. After all, jewelry is so much more than an accessory; it’s a form of self-expression. And you wouldn’t neglect taking care of that, would you? 

Visit us at Schiffman's Jewelers to learn more about styling jewelry and build your perfect collection in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Lexington, KY!