Lauren Flemming
For every wardrobe, there are essential items that serve as a foundation to build your outfits on. The same goes for jewelry, except that you don’t have to build on or around the piece. Jewelry staples are the pieces that go with everything and have seen trend after trend but still emerge as the chic forerunners. If you don’t have these classics in your jewelry box, start saving now because they’re the smartest jewelry investments you can make.
Number One: Diamond Solitaire Earrings
The rule of thumb is... diamonds always always always look incredible. On anybody. At any time. This staple should seem like a no-brainer, but at the risk of sounding obvious, diamond studs top the list. If your budget is tight, rhinestone and cubic zirconia studs achieve essentially the same thing — but you should invest in the real deal when possible. Class, grace, style, simplicity, never has an item so small and so unassuming done so much for the female race. Overstock.com is an easy place to purchase your first pair because they offer an endless variety of options and usually offer discounts, as well as low shipping costs. If you prefer a brand name to fall back on, Tiffany and Co. is the brand name for diamonds.
Diamond Solitaires $3,239.99, Overstock
Number Two: Bangles
I think bracelets are the underestimated jewelry pieces. They’re kind of the wild card that often surprises you. But donning a set of gold or silver bangles gives you a very polished look for very little effort. They have a natural transcendence from day to night, from sophisticated to sexy. These should be your go-to item when in a fix; they’re as reliable as your favorite pair of jeans and just as versatile.
Citrine by the Stones $90, Net-a-porter
Number Three: Classic Hoops
Silver (or gold) hoops are a must-have for every woman’s jewelry collection. They come at every price, in almost every size imaginable, and most designers like to add their own unique touches. I especially dig this pair from Gorjana—the hammered silver gives them a natural, earthy quality that I love. Once you have a simple pair, go out and search for more creative pieces with etching, intricate designs, beads or inset jewels.
Gorjana Hoops $95, Shopbop
Number Four: Band Rings
Just like the other staples, band rings are simple, versatile and easy to find — so have a little fun and find a pair that stands out. These stackable rings incorporate gold and silver as well as a funky braid design. Bands are always great for mixing and matching so it’s a good idea to start stocking up.
Bing Band Stackable Rings $110, Shopbop
Number Five: Pearl Necklace
Some women are handed down a pearl necklace that belonged to their mother or grandmother. If you’re not one of those lucky few, why not start the tradition with yourself and invest in a strand of pearls? There’s something really special about your first pair of pearls - it’s like you’ve reached a certain age of “accessory maturity". You’ll find yourself needing a pearl necklace for really special occasions throughout your lifetime, which is why you’re really never too old or too young to flaunt them. The Pearl Source is a great place to go if you’re interested in purchasing some, all of their white pearl necklaces come from Australia, the most popular destination for white pearls. They also have a buyer’s guide on the website and information pertaining to the history of pearls.
Pearl Necklace $4499, The Pearl Source
