Many men may not think of their watches, cufflinks, and bracelets to be “jewelry,” but it’s just that. And knowing how to wear, what to wear, and when to wear makes all the difference. Whether you call it “jewelry,” “accessories,” or just “that stuff I wear,” you can really amp up your style with some classy tweaks to your wardrobe. As with all jewelry, it’s always a personal style choice. If you find yourself drawn to it, figure out what you like about it and start from there. If this is new to you, it can be confusing…even overwhelming…but here are some tips to help you along.

Keep it simple – Too much jewelry can be distracting and look unprofessional. When in doubt, keep it simple.

Keep it classic – A great way to start is with a classic leather strap watch or a sportier driving watch. Next, consider tie accessories or cuff links

Keep it metal – Most men’s jewelry is metallic with gold and silver being the most common. These pieces are often versatile enough to be worn with many different outfits each day.

When choosing colors, here are some things to keep in mind:

Gold – This is a “warmer” color and goes well with browns and earth tones.

Silver and silver-tone – This is a more neutral color and goes well with black or dark gray clothes. It won’t clash too sharply with anything and can also work with lighter colors in the summer.

Copper and bronze – These items are more orange in hue and it’s easy to overdo it if you’re not careful. Copper and bronze-colored accessories are best with more casual outfits like plain shorts and a t-shirt.

The best way to get started is to try on some new things. The trick is keeping it simple and never letting your jewelry overpower your clothing. It should complement your look and be right for the occasion. Consider whether you’re in a more serious environment like work or a job interview…or if you’re in a more playful environment like at the bar or a party.  

There’s a right look for everyone, so try on a few things and see what you like. Pretty soon you’ll be wearing jewelry like a pro (and look like it, too)!