How to Choose the Right Earrings for Your Outfit

Picking the right earrings for your outfit always seems simple until it’s time to start trying jewelry on. Do you pick simple hoops that won’t draw from your outfit? Or, do you go big and choose a statement earring that will get people talking? Whether you wear hoop earrings, studs, or other ear piercings, you want to find accessories that accentuate your outfit instead of taking from it.

From wearing earrings alongside bracelets and necklaces to choosing statement pieces that can speak for themselves, here’s what you need to know about pairing your earrings with your wardrobe.

Don’t Over-Accessorize.

By now, everyone’s heard Coco Chanel‘s famous quip about removing an accessory before leaving the house. While there’s plenty to be said for statement jewels and indulging in excess, it isn’t always the right call. However, that doesn’t mean that you need to start removing jewels necessarily. Instead, invest in more discrete combinations.

For instance, if you’re going to wear a set of bold, chunky bracelets, pick out some stud earrings to go with instead of hoops or chandeliers. In fact, stud earrings are a good call any time you’re in a bit of a style pinch. Sterling silver or even nickel studs pair well with jackets, blazers, casual wear, and dresses.

Pick Earrings that Complement your Hairstyle and Color.

While many of us choose our earrings based strictly on our outfits, it’s also important to pick earrings that complement our natural features. For example, if you’re rocking a chin-length middle-part bob, wearing dangly earrings that hit the same spot as your haircut might not look the most stylish.

If you have naturally fiery red hair, you might want to avoid certain gemstones that could clash with your hair color, such as emeralds and sapphires. Instead, it would help if you opted for warmer colors that will accentuate your locks.

The Latest Doesn’t Always Mean the Greatest.

When you’re picking out a new pair of earrings, it’s easy to get swept up by the best sellers, new arrivals, and free shipping offers. While it’s fun to treat yourself to some best sellers and new arrivals from time to time, you can still find some major style moments in classic pieces, heirloom earrings, and vintage treasures.

Before you pull out your credit card and indulge in some retail therapy, go through your existing jewelry to see if you can find some combos you overlooked, some pieces that need a bit of TLC, or a pair of earrings that deserves a second chance.

Consider Where you’re Going.

If you’re getting ready for a saucy date night, it might be the best time to whip out your favorite pair of dangly crystal earrings. If you’re running errands? Those same dangly beauties might be more of a distraction or clash with a casual outfit. Likewise, if you’re getting ready for an important interview, you’ll probably want to pick something a little more understated. This way, it can complement your professional style without distracting the interviewer.

No matter the occasion, context matters when you’re picking out jewelry. When you’re picking out a pair of earrings, it needs to make sense not only for your chosen outfit but for the context of where you’re going. Even though a piece of jewelry might pair with your outfit, there are times when certain jewels aren’t appropriate for the event at hand.

Let Your Style Speak for You.

Whether you’re interested in bold, colorful statement pieces or you want demure, subtle earrings, you can use your jewelry to tell people a bit about yourself. The right pieces can greatly enhance your wardrobe, so you want to ensure you’re always picking the best options you have.