How to Accessorize With Jewelry (And Not Break the Bank)

Accessorizing with jewelry can help complete your outfit. However, it can be challenging to accessorize without breaking the bank.

So, how do you ensure you look great while keeping your wallet happy? Check out this guide to learn how to accessorize with jewelry and not break the bank.

Start Simple

Some small, simple jewelry pieces can go a long way when it comes to accessorizing. Start your jewelry collection by purchasing accessories that go well with many different types of outfits.

We recommend investing in:

Stud Earrings

Stud earrings will always be in style, and they go with anything. No matter how formal or casual the occasion, stud earrings can add a touch of elegance and sparkle to your outfit.

Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings make a slightly bigger statement than stud earrings, especially if they’re hoops in a larger size. Small hoop earrings can also add a bit of flair to your outfit without being over the top.

Pendant Necklaces

Pendant necklaces are perfect for occasions where you want to make an elegant statement. Plus, these necklaces never go out of style.

Bangle Bracelets

You can wear bangle bracelets as a stack or singularly. The layered effect looks chic and produces a nice jingle sound.

Chain Necklace

A silver or gold chain necklace can revolutionize any outfit. Thin chains add a feminine touch, while thick chains add a punch of style.

Basic Band Rings

Basic band rings are the perfect complement to any outfit. You can choose to wear several or more stacking rings, depending on your mood.

Pearl Necklace

There is nothing more elegant than a pearl necklace. You can opt for a single-strand or double-strand to add a bit of classiness to your outfit.

Not only are these jewelry items affordable, but they can also serve as the foundation of your jewelry collection. They also act as a base for adding other items to your jewelry wardrobe.

Go for Quality Over Quantity

Woman wearing jewelry

While it may be tempting to purchase a bunch of cheap jewelry pieces, there’s a good chance those pieces will fall apart quickly.

Purchasing quality jewelry can save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to replace it as often. Rather than having a massive collection of low-quality pieces, take time to select jewelry that you’ll wear repeatedly.

Are you wondering what to know before purchasing jewelry? Click here to find out!

Keep Your Jewelry From Tarnishing

Woman placing jewelry in case

In addition to purchasing quality jewelry pieces, it’s essential to take steps to prevent your jewelry from tarnishing, so it stands the test of time.

Here are some things you can do to prevent tarnishing:

Keep It Dry

Jewelry tarnishes when it comes in contact with liquid or moisture. Be careful when applying lotion, washing your hands, spritzing on perfume, or exercising. If you get your jewelry wet by accident, be sure to wipe it down right away.

Store Your Jewelry Properly

Properly storing your jewelry is another essential step to prevent it from tarnishing. We recommend storing your jewelry in a velvet case or jewelry bag to prevent grime or moisture from coming into contact.

You can also stick an anti-tarnish strip in your jewelry case to prevent your items from wearing down.

Use a Jewelry Protectant Spray

Jewelry protectant spray offers a shield to fight elements that contribute to tarnishing. Not only can this spray protect your jewelry pieces longer, but some sprays can also protect your skin from irritation. This is excellent news for those who have extra sensitive skin and tend to react to jewelry!

Always Match Your Jewelry To the Occasion

You might have a fantastic set of big, bold earrings, but they will look out of place at a black tie event. When choosing jewelry pieces, always think about the occasion. Some pieces already have a formal appearance to them. For example, if you are attending a traditional wedding or another event, consider accessories with precious gems that will give you plenty of sparkles. While you can break out the expensive pieces, other inexpensive ones can look just as good as their high-priced counterparts. There are plenty of options to add sparkle to your jewelry collection. Remember to consider the occasion before accessories. You can take a day at the beach up a notch by adding casual pieces, such as bangle bracelets, simple chains, or chunky beads.

Learn To Layer Your Pieces

Layering is one essential tip you must master, even on a budget. By layering your jewelry, you can show off your style and vary the look of your jewelry pieces. What is the key to layer? First, you want to gather up your collection of bracelets and necklaces and take the time to experiment. Remember, you need to find your own personal style. If you have several delicate pieces, layer them in various widths and lengths. Make sure to choose one or two items as the focal point of your outfit. From there, you can add simpler bangles or chains to create a beautiful layered look.

Take Your Look from Day To Night

In many cases, jewelry has a certain formality, but do not be intimidated. You can transform your day look into something to wear for a night on the town. For example, you can accessorize the little black dress with a simple chain and pendant. Not only will it pair well with the dress, but it can keep your look casual and fun. You can swap out the simple necklace for a statement piece when it is time for a date. Don’t forget to add a couple of bracelets to turn a casual look into a nighttime one.

How Much Is Too Much?

Wearing too much can make your outfit look gaudy. No one wants to be the person with too much bling. You can avoid these fashion faux pas by choosing a focal point. That focal point will draw a person’s eyes to that area. You should keep the jewelry simple if you have a statement-making top or dress. Never wear chunky earrings or an armful of bangles. However, you can take a simple top to the next level with an incredible statement piece.

Choose something that pops. Pick stunning precious stone earrings or colorful bracelets. By knowing your focal point, you can allow that item to shine. If you think you might have too many accessories, always remove one to two pieces. There is a little trick you might want to use. If a piece immediately catches your eye when you pass by a mirror, take it off. Pieces that stand out for the wrong reasons can hurt the appearance of your outfit.

Take Your Wardrobe Into Consideration

When accessorizing with jewelry, it’s also essential to take your wardrobe into consideration. If your clothes have busy and loud prints, stick with jewelry pieces that are more subdued.

If you tend to wear plain, simple outfits, try to choose a few jewelry pieces with a little more color and creativity. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:

If your outfit has jewelry embellishments, skip the necklace and wear a simple pair of earrings
Try to color coordinate - if you’re wearing a white dress with red shoes, pair it with some red jewelry to pull your outfit together
If you’re wearing a plain white tee or blouse, pair it with a fun statement necklace
If you’re wearing a top with a bold print, pair it with a simple gold chain

Choose Jewelry Pieces That Match Your Undertones

When accessorizing with jewelry, it’s also essential to keep your skin tone in mind. If your skin has warm undertones, opt for warm metals like copper or gold. Or, choose warm gemstones such as rubies, yellow diamonds, or carnelians.

Opt for white gold, platinum, or silver pieces if your skin has cool undertones. You can also wear cool gems such as sapphire, aquamarine, or lapis lazuli.

You can use the same trick to match your jewelry with your clothing items. For example, if you’re wearing cooler colors, pair your outfit with some blue jewelry. Or, if you’re wearing a brown dress, pair your outfit with warmer tones.

Jewelry Doesn't Have to Be Expensive

Accessorizing with jewelry doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Start your collection with some simple items, such as bangles or stud earrings, and build from there. Remember to keep your wardrobe in mind when shopping for jewelry, and don’t forget to take steps to prevent your jewelry from tarnishing.

With these tricks, you’ll have an affordable jewelry collection that stands the test of time.

Are you looking to add some beaded bracelets to your collection? Click here to read our suggestions for beaded bracelets!

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