Summer Styling: Begin with the Jewelry

I wear my jewelry a little differently in summer. I feel less restrained, more experimental—drawn to unexpected color combinations and pieces that bring a sense of playfulness to what I wear. I often begin with the jewelry I want to wear. Many people start with the dress, blouse or shoes, but I prefer to dress around the jewelry. There are no absolute rules. Summer is the season to experiment, trust your instincts and wear color in a way that feels entirely your own. 

Summer wardrobes are often brighter than winter ones, which can make colorful jewelry feel more difficult to style. We worry that it may become too much or that the colors will not work together. But If you love it, you can’t get it wrong. It is your style, after all. So add the color—and own it.

A lilac blazer, for example, offers far more possibilities than you might imagine. Try a colored gemstone and use a tonal nuance. Match with your nail polish for an unexpected but considered detail.

If you are unsure, there is a simple principle: when wearing bright color or prints, let everything else be quieter. Prints and multiple colors can take a little practice, while a single bold color is often easier to work with.

A red dress, for example, offers far more possibilities than you might imagine. Try mint green enamel earrings and match them with your nail polish for an unexpected but considered detail.

When time is short, keep the clothing neutral. A simple white, beige or black dress becomes
the perfect backdrop for colorful jewelry. Ask yourself what you want people to notice, and place the spotlight there. Colorful jewelry will feel fresh against white during the day and striking against black in the evening.