If you love jewelry, 2026 is your year. The overall vibe is bigger, bolder, more expressive, and less about following rules. The best part? Many of these trends are easy to shop for in pre-loved and vintage pieces, so you can find something unique that doesn’t look like everyone else’s.
Source: This article is based on “Jewelry Trends 2026: What’s IN and What’s OUT!” by Carol of The Stylish Maker (YouTube, posted Jan 14, 2026) and the transcript screenshots were reviewed for this summary.
The big theme for 2026: statement style
Minimal, “barely there” jewelry is taking a back seat. In 2026, jewelry is meant to be noticed—it’s the finishing touch that can turn jeans and a white tee into a full look.
Think: chunky chains, bold earrings, sculptural metal, modern pearls, and meaningful stones.
What’s IN for 2026 (and how to wear it)
1) Silver is back (and mixed metals still work)
Silver-tone jewelry is having a major moment again. Gold is still in, and mixing metals is absolutely acceptable—especially when the pieces feel intentional.
Try it: a silver statement necklace with a simple sweater, or mixed-metal earrings with an all-black outfit.
2) Texture, texture, texture
Smooth isn’t the only option anymore. Look for hammered, rippled, sculpted, etched, or high-shine textured metal—it adds dimension and makes even a simple outfit look styled.
Try it: textured hoops or a hammered cuff bracelet as your one “wow” piece.
3) Bigger + bolder jewelry (quiet luxury is not the only look)
2026 jewelry leans bold: oversized earrings, chunky chains, thicker hoops, and substantial pieces.
Style tip: If you wear one oversized piece, keep everything else simpler so it can shine.
4) Long pendants and lariat (Y) necklaces
Longer necklaces are trending again, but in a more modern way—often sitting higher than the waist and designed to feel like a statement. Lariat/Y necklaces are part of the look, and layering is still popular.
Try it: a long pendant over a solid top, or layered chains to draw attention upward toward your face.
5) Brooches are back — but worn in fresh ways
Brooches aren’t just for lapels anymore. They’re being used as styling tools: pinning a scarf, holding a cardigan closed, adding interest at a collar, or turning a blouse into something special.
Try it: a brooch at the collar of a crisp shirt, or used as a scarf pin.
6) Collar necklaces / architectural metal
Structured collar necklaces are showing up as “wearable sculpture.” Some are sleek and high-shine, others are textured and bold.
Try it: a collar necklace with a plain tee and jeans for a high-low outfit that looks intentional.
7) Wear your “special” jewelry with casual outfits
A big 2026 mindset shift: stop saving your best pieces. Pearls, sparkle, and statement jewelry are being worn with everyday outfits.
Try it: pearls with denim, or a rhinestone piece with a casual knit.
8) Pre-loved + vintage + vintage-inspired is trending
Vintage jewelry is having a continued comeback—partly because it’s more eco-friendly, and partly because it carries a sense of story and individuality. Cameos are also being revived in more modern styling.
Try it: a vintage-style cameo paired with a modern chain, or a retro brooch with a contemporary blazer.
9) Gemstones become the “main character”
In 2026, gemstones aren’t just little accents. The stones are often the whole point—bold colour, bigger size, and personal meaning. Real stones are loved, and high-quality faux stones are also celebrated.
Try it: choose stones that feel personal (birthstone colours, favourite colours, meaningful symbols) and wear them as a statement.
10) Charms return — but “with attitude”
Charms are back, but they’re less sentimental and more bold. Think locks, coins, talismans, symbolic shapes, and a more curated approach.
Try it: one or two standout charms instead of a bracelet full of tiny ones.
11) Handbag charms (including crochet)
Bag charms are having a major moment—big, playful, intentionally noticeable. Crochet charms are part of the trend too, adding texture and personality.
Try it: add one fun charm to your everyday bag for instant personality.
12) Pearls, but make them edgy
Pearls are no longer just quiet and classic. 2026 pearls are often worn in bulk or paired with chunky chains, textured metal, and modern shapes. Faux pearls are also welcomed.
Try it: pearl + chain combo necklace, layered pearls with mixed metal, or pearls styled unexpectedly.
What’s OUT (or less on-trend)
- Very tiny, almost invisible necklaces as the main look
- Overly delicate, overly sentimental charm styles (replaced by bolder/curated charms)
- Wearing perfectly matching jewelry sets (can read formal/outdated—mixing is fresher)
Quick “shopping guide” for buyers
When you’re browsing:
- Look for texture + shine + bold scale
- Don’t be afraid of silver-tone and mixed metals
- Choose pieces that feel personal (stones, symbols, story)
- Pick one statement item and build around it
I wrote this with the help of ChatGPT 5.2. Thank you to Carol of The Stylish Maker on YouTube for sharing these trends! Please check out my Poshmark Closet as well as my items on Facebook Marketplace. Let me know if you need help finding them. Look for me, Angela G. Gentile or Gentle Angel Treasures. I also carry many vintage pieces, GA Vintage.
Thanks for reading! Comments are welcomed!
Angela G. Gentile
Angela G. Gentile, BSW, MSW 