Stacking jewelry is an art that takes some time to master. Although we don’t really believe in rules in the jewelry world, following some tips can give that refined yet fashionable look. Jewelry is a way of expressing yourself, so do it exactly the way you want to.
You can say that layering jewelry is a trend, but it’s also one of those things that come under personal style. So it’s all just about expressing your unique style statement. But let’s be honest, combining different shapes, textures, and elements can be confusing.
So if you’re a fashionista and a trend chaser looking to stack up on jewelry, you’ve come to the right place. That is the only guide you’ll ever need to take your accessories game to the next level.
Let’s dive into it already!
Necklace Layering Mastery
When it comes to stacking jewelry, most of us think about necklaces, and rightly so. They are the easiest to stack and layer, so let’s talk about that in detail.
The necklace stacking trend is very much in vogue if you regularly follow runway shows and magazine photo-shoots. Designers and stylists are relying on necklaces to make stand-out looks, and so can you!
Celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Taylor Swift, and Rihanna have long been known for stacking jewelry, especially necklaces. But if you notice, the stacking is very subtle most of the time. Many women think stacking is a numbers game when obviously it’s not, but rather it’s about playing with the length and textures.
Choose a Base Necklace
The best way to layer necklaces is to start by choosing a base necklace. Now, this would usually be the shortest necklace you’ll layer, perhaps a choker or a short-length chain. Use this as a reference for selecting the other necklaces.
It doesn’t hurt to wear the necklace and then layer more on to see how they look. After all, the proof is in the look when it comes to jewelry.
Another thing about this base necklace is that it can be minimalistic or a statement necklace, like a chunky choker or Cuban chain.
Pay Attention to Chain Type
For layering, go with different styles and types of chains. You want to add some design depth by choosing contrasting textures and even different colors. While you can use the same chain in other lengths, it might not be so noticeable.
Pendant Goes at the Bottom
If you’re only adding one pendant to the necklace stacking, go with the bottom layer or the longest chain you’re wearing. If you put the pendant in the top first or second necklace, the longer necklace will cut it off.
Again, this is not a hard and fast rule, but it looks more flattering, and the pendant gets its moment to shine on its own, even though you’ve layered it with several other chains.
Less Can Be More
Again, stacking is not just about the numbers. The goal isn’t to wear more jewelry but to create a unique, expressive, and edgy look, which, trust us, can be achieved even with just two necklaces.
So if a small choker and a long chain with a pendant are all you have, that’s all you need!
Think Geometry
If you’re confused about how to go about stacking necklaces, your quickest approach is geometry. Playing with geometric shapes is the easiest way to create brilliant looks with multiple necklaces.
There are just so many types of chains with different shapes and styles. For instance, an anchor chain would pair well with a curly chain or popcorn chain, as they are just so different.
Metal Colors
Gone are the days when jewelry was just limited to gold and silver. Today, jewelry metals come in a wide variety of finishes, including the ever luxurious and elegant rose gold. That gives you a fantastic opportunity to combine different finishes for necklace layering.
You cannot go wrong with silver and black, and similarly, gold with rose gold.
If going with just one finish or color, pay attention to the intricate designs of the necklaces and pendants. The contrast in shape, type, and size will matter if going with a monochromatic finish on the same metal.
Bracelet Stacking Art
Bracelet layering is similar to the necklace, except you cannot really play with many lengths, and when you do, go for different sizes, keeping a bracelet loose and others fitted. However, it’s ultimately about textures, colors, and materials.
While with necklaces, you can stack different chains, with bracelets, it’s best to have one chain bracelet and the others a little different. For instance, you can pair a link chain bracelet with a cuff or beaded bracelet.
Play with Shapes
For bracelet stacking, shapes are your friend. Combine different shapes, whether through the chain or the stones/charms/beads. Contrasting textures will make the bracelets pop out and complement each other.
The good thing about bracelets is that you can wear them with both casual and formal looks. So if you have a monochromatic, minimalistic outfit, you can add a pop of color with some beads or stone bracelets.
If stacking elastic bead bracelets, go with different colors, shapes, and sizes to distinguish them.
Chunky Bracelets Like it Solo
Those chunky bold statement cuffs and bracelets typically look great on their own. If you’re wearing a very wide cuff covering most of your wrist, it is better not to stack it with other bracelets. Let it be the hero on its own.
If it’s a statement bracelet with intricate designs or lots of stones, again, let it be the star of its own show. Throwing on other sleeker bracelets or bread bracelets won’t do much to the look, as the statement bracelet would conveniently stand out.
Ring Stacking Magic
If you’re a trend chaser, stacking rings is the best way to combine those new styles with the classic ones. You can do your own thing with rings mixing and matching different textures and materials.
Generally speaking, band rings are the easiest to layer and stack as they are flat and often sleek, whereas you can stack two or three on just one finger. Pair these with statement stone or signet rings.
You can go for a contemporary look with rings in similar color or metal. For instance, you can wear several 14k gold rings because cohesiveness is such a key attribute. But you can also add some color with the help of gemstones.
Stackable Rings
Many contemporary designers and brands make stackable ring sets that take all the guesswork out for you. You can buy such a set if you find it hard to stack different rings. Plus, you can always wear these rings separately as well, so it’s a winner.
Gemstone Cuts
If you’re a gemstone fan who likes to cover her fingers with brilliant stones, a great way to stack and combine such rings is to use different cuts. This is especially applicable to the same stone types, for instance, diamonds.
If one ring is cubic, go for an oval or pear-shaped diamond for the next one. Of course, you can always choose a different stone as well. Diamonds go great with almost any other precious or semi-precious stone.
Multiple Earrings
Stacking earrings requires commitment because, unlike necklaces or rings, you’ll need piercings to wear multiple earrings. But don’t worry, you don’t necessarily need many piercings on your ears. Thanks to ear cuffs, you can create modern stacked earrings looks without actually needing another piercing.
In case you have multiple piercings already, don’t be afraid to use them. For most of your piercing on the upper part of the ears, studs are an obvious choice. However, don’t limit yourself to those simple stone studs. You can find the tiniest studs in different shapes and finishes to complement your dominant earrings.
If wearing chunky statement earrings, it’s best to go with lightweight studs or simple small hoops for the other piercings. Putting too much weight on your ears can be uncomfortable.
Wrap Up
Stacking is an art, and at POSH&PEPPER, we think of it as a way of self-expression. Layering can also be a great way to uplift a basic outfit and make it more evening-appropriate. That’s just how powerful jewelry is. A black tank with jeans can be made uber fashionable with stacked necklaces.
Don’t be afraid to experiment, and if it feels good to you, it’s the right choice. Don’t bother too much with what’s right or wrong because the rules are out as to layering.
