Vogue A capsule collection of jewelry is a set of well-designed, beautifully crafted, high-quality adornments you can wear all together or one piece at a time. Selecting coordinating pieces from every major category – earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, and rings – is a great way to create a complete look. Your choices should complement your wardrobe and elevate your style. Each piece should be versatile and timeless while expressing your personality.
Having a few incredible pieces of jewelry that match most of your wardrobe allows you to save some cash and space in your jewelry box. To make sure you have everything you need in your capsule jewelry collection, take a look at our list of must-haves!
How Do You Build Your Collection?
Start with the precious metal you wear “naturally.” Consider whether this color really suits you and if it puts the rest of your look in the best light. If you find that a brighter, lighter, or more intensely saturated tone of metal works particularly well, then move toward it. You can create a chorus of hues by choosing an anchor piece, like a watch or necklace, that skillfully combines a few metals in its design.
Build your collection by selecting one item for each category in styles that look nice together. Once you have the essentials, add a signature, aspirational piece like a ring, watch, or pendant as the star of your show. Iterate and add coordinating pieces, but remember to be concise. Only select what suits your body and spirit.
1. Earrings
Earrings add sparkle and highlight your face. They always look intentional and add a special touch to any ensemble. Check out the options at John Medeiros to decide which is ideal for you.
Studs
Circular gold, diamond, and pearl studs are among the most classic styles of earrings. If you’re bold, you might choose a unique shape, like your favorite animal or hobby. Studs are usually light and comfortable to wear, and they make any outfit look put together. They’re a subtle, elegant touch that shows you care enough to make an effort.
Hoops
Hoops add movement and a little or a lot of pizzazz to an outfit. Lively and versatile, large or embellished hoops draw attention to your bright eyes and a big smile. Smaller hoops are more subtle, and thicker styles can have a preppy or sporty vibe.
Drop Earrings
Drop earrings can be dressy, feminine, or bohemian. Different earring shapes flatter different faces, so take your time finding the perfect pair. Look for movement and fine metals so the earrings will catch the light.
2. Necklaces
Chains and pendants are wonderful to layer or wear alone. A capsule jewelry collection is not complete without a versatile rope or chain necklace. This type of necklace can be worn alone or layered with other necklaces for a more dramatic look. Rope chains are available in a variety of materials, including gold, silver, and even leather. When choosing a rope or chain necklace, it is important to consider the length. A shorter necklace will sit higher on the neck and is more versatile, while a longer necklace can be worn as a statement piece. It is also important to choose a material that compliments your skin tone. For example, a warm-toned individual may want to choose a gold rope chain, while a cool-toned individual may prefer a silver or platinum chain. No matter what material you choose, make sure to pick a quality piece that will stand the test of time. A cheap, flimsy chain will only end up breaking or tangling, so it is worth investing in a well-made piece. With proper care, your rope or chain necklace will last for many years to come.
Chains
Women’s and men’s gold-plated chains are foundation piece that always looks right. Choose a flattering length that you will wear often with a style and texture that complements your personality and your other jewelry.
Long Necklaces
A long necklace can elongate and dress up your look. If you’re clever, you can choose one that can be accessorized with a pendant, layered with other necklaces, or doubled or tripled against your collarbone. A long can be worn in plenty of ways, making it a great choice for a capsule wardrobe.
3. Bracelets
Bracelets create impact by drawing attention to your hands, one of your most useful and expressive features.
Cuffs
A cuff can be a simple accent that communicates your style through its finish. Whether brushed, polished, engraved, or embellished, cuffs can be worn on their own or stacked with a few other bracelets.
Link Bracelets
Women’s gold bracelets are beautiful enough that they can be layered or worn alone. They can be simple and delicate or quite striking. Take care to select a chain that is carefully wrought and polished so that it never comes loose or catches on your clothes. A good quality gold bracelet will match almost any outfit and last you a lot of years.
Tennis Bracelets
A tennis bracelet is made of a series of identical gemstones, usually diamonds, connected by a metal chain. Tennis bracelets add flash and glamour to your wrist and can be worn with everything from shorts to evening gowns. They also look great when they are layered with other bracelets of similar weight!
4. Wristwatches
Of all the pieces in your capsule collection, a wristwatch might say the most about who you are. These days, wearing a watch is a deliberate choice; a timepiece is rarely a necessity. If you only have one watch, make it an investment piece and choose wisely. Consider the clothing you are most proud to wear throughout the year – do you prefer to express your style at work or on the weekends? Are you looking for a sporty model or something more subtle? Think of your timepiece as a finely crafted machine and a piece of jewelry all in one.
