There’s something about jewelry that must makes me feel finished. Even on days I’m running out the door in joggers, having pieces that I never take off and throwing on my hoops just adds that extra bit of polish.
I have always loved jewelry and my style has shifted from really bold, costume pieces to much more minimal and thoughtful ones. Over time, I’ve built up a little collection of quality pieces that I can wear endlessly and that feel like me. Today I thought I could share what I wear daily, why I love them and the extra specials I keep on hand for stacking and layering.
Everyday Staples: My Non-Negotiable
These are the pieces I wear on autopilot. They live on my nightstand or bathroom counter so I can grab them without even thinking (or depending on the piece, never take off):
1. Gold Hoops (an easy classic)
A chunky gold hoop is simple, timeless, and they instantly make me feel pulled together. I keep two pairs in rotation: a medium-thick everyday gold hoop and a similar thick silver pair. I play with other styles and sizes, but always come back to these two.
Why I love them: hoops flatter everyone, they transition from errands to dinner seamlessly, and they never look like you tried too hard.
Similarly, on the topic of never-take-off jewelry, I wear small huggies in my second hole and an ear suspender in my third–it often gets hidden by my hair but is a conversation piece when it peeks through.
2. A Delicate Necklace I Never Take Off
You will almost always catch me with this special custom ‘n’ pendant around my neck as an ode to my second born. The chain is a 10k gold box style (1mm) which is a great choice if you have a delicate pendant. I especially like this one because it has two closure lengths which is great when you want to layer it with other pieces and play with lengths.
Similarly, my ‘H’ diamond initial with gold bar pendant (engraved with my first son’s birthday) is something I will sometimes pair with the above but I do find it’s ideal to mix different styles of chains when layering to avoid them getting tangled.
Something about a necklace (or several layered together), to me, take any outfit from basic to elevated. Having pieces that are ready to wear will instantly make an outfit look effortless (which we all know takes effort!).
3. Everyday Bracelets
Give me a something for my wrist any day of the week–I’m definitely a bracelet girl!
My everyday go-to’s are pieces I don’t typically take off, so they don’t require any thought in the morning. I have a couple Cartier bracelets that are extra special, layered with a box chain bracelet with a pendant with my son’s zodiac sign, a paperclip chain bracelet, a permanent bracelet with a black charm that I got while supporting my best friend’s business during a pop-up, and a dainty crystal and gold bracelet I wore for our wedding.
Some days I’ll add a thin bangle or that dainty tennis bracelet for a little sparkle. I do love a chunky bangle, every now and again but mostly like to keep the stack minimal so it never feels fussy, just polished.
If you’re curious how I actually wear these pieces day to day, here’s my rough formula:
- School drop off / Running errands / Play dates: medium thick hoops, delicate necklace + everyday bracelets
- Dinner out: medium thick hoops or statement earring, layered necklaces OR stack of bangles
- Weekend casual: medium thick hoops, layered chains + everyday bracelets
I’m not strict with rules, it should be fun, but having a base and a few extras makes getting dressed easier. If you’re starting to build your jewelry collection, my advice is to focus on versatile staples first:
- One pair of thick hoops you love (circle or square are both on trend)
- A delicate everyday necklace (my preference is solid gold, a bit more of an investment, but you can wear it daily, in the shower/swimming/will last forever)
- A couple dainty bracelets — permanent bracelets are a fun trend that look great
- A longer chain with pendant that you can layer with shorter necklaces
From there, you can slowly add in special layering pieces or statement items. Jewelry is such a personal thing, and you’ll know when something feels right.
This post is a collaboration with Jodiecball.com. If you would like to shop any of Enea Studio’s beautiful pieces, you can use discount code AMANDA20 for 20% off your entire purchase.
Thank you for supporting the brands that help make Life with A.Co a free space to enjoy.
