Glorious Mismatch: High-Fashion Accessory Incongruity

When it comes to jewelry, the rule of thumb has always been less is more. While mix and match clothing was all the rage a few years back, many people are still reluctant to employ this trend on their jewelry.  However, there is a way to combine mismatched jewelry pieces and still exude that yearned-for effortlessly elegant, chic energy. Here is how you can pull off mismatched jewelry gloriously

1. Pick a Focal Piece

The key to pulling off mix and match jewelry is to have pieces that complement rather than compete against one another. So before you put on everything you own, decide what specific piece you want to be on display. Your centerpiece could be a chunky necklace like the eye-catching Palazzo Dia Crystal Chain Necklace from Versace.

Or you could go with a cuff bracelet like Paloma Picasso’s Olive Leaf Cuff from Tiffany & Co.

Once you pick your centerpiece, find other jewelry items and clothing that put it in the best light.

2. Incorporate Daily Wear

Mix and match jewelry is supposed to look both high-fashion and casual. If someone on the street can tell that you went into the safe to find the pieces you’re wearing, then you have failed. Effortless class is what you should aim for, and this means donning the jewelry pieces you would put on for a PTA meeting or to go on a brunch date with friends.

Watches are the one thing everyone wears everywhere. A nice watch like Bvlgari’s Serpenti Tubogas watch can be elegantly dressed up with complementing jewelry pieces.

A simple bracelet is another jewelry item that does not scream “tries too hard”. Tennis bracelets are especially easy to incorporate into your mix and match ensemble and go very well with watches. Chanel’s Ultra Bracelet with diamonds offset in black ceramic is perfect for your everyday jewelry ensemble.

Rings are also effortlessly chic accessories that you wear all the time. You can go with a simple gold or silver band on any of your fingers, or choose a distinctive ring that says something about you. I love David Yurman’s DY Elements yellow gold ring with a malachite stone that speaks to the wearer’s strength and intention.

3. Don’t Fear Color

For a very long time, the unwritten law was to wear jewelry made from the same metal. Thankfully, that rule lies in the past, where it belongs.

You can get away with mixing gold jewelry with silver on any part of your body, whether it is rings, bracelets, or necklaces. This rose gold Hermes Galop Bracelet would provide a chic contrast to the Vertige Coeur silver bracelet.

You can also add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral ensemble. This long Somnia Necklace from Swarovski made from colorful green crystals offset with amazonite and aventurine beads gives you boho-chic high fashion elegance.

And if you are unsure about mixing metals, you can purchase a jewelry accessory that already has combined elements, like these Vahan Diamond Hoop Earrings.

4. Layer Up

Layering is the simplest way of creating a glorious mismatch. This trend allows you to create your own rules on how to bring together your jewelry pieces. You can bring multiple jewelry items into focus, whether it is a specific bracelet or watch on your hand, a ring on your fingers, or a necklace around your neck. You can also decide to play with lengths, thicknesses, colors, and designs for your layered jewelry.

Layered necklaces can be designed to look delicate, bold, or something in-between. This Tiffany & Co. Wrap Necklace combines a circular pendant with a lock pendant in two-layered chains for a bold look.

Stacking rings allows you to play with different colors, textures, and metals. You can pick your own individual rings to stack, or you can buy ring stacks like this Style No. 3 ring stack by Sethi Couture.

Layering bracelets and watches can accomplish any look, from boho to feminine and even minimalist. Here is an inspiration picture for layering your Cartier Love Bracelets with a Rolex Day-Date 36 watch.

Combining different metals, designs, and colors is not just a trend for teens who are still finding their style. It is very possible to create elegant mix and match jewelry without looking like a fashion accident. Try out your pieces and see what can go with what. And remember, even if you do not get it right the first time, with a little bit of practice you will soon be an expert.

About The Author

Debbie Azar is the Co-Founder and President of Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the largest gemological organizations in the world, and a distinguished leader in the global diamond and jewelry industry. As an executive with extensive knowledge of the jewelry and gem lab industries, her entrepreneurial skills and vision have helped GSI achieve rapid and continuous growth worldwide, establishing 13 leading-edge gemological facilities on four continents. She currently serves on the boards of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Responsible Jewellery Council, and Jewelers for Children, and is a member of the 24 Karat Club of New York. She has been featured in Forbes, Daily Mail, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, Bloomberg Businessweek, Fox Business, Fox5, CBS2, BOLDTV, Varney&Co, The Street, and NASDAQ, among others.