Want to elevate your jewellery styling game? Whether you're building the perfect jewellery collection, refreshing your style, or learning how to mix and match pieces effortlessly, these expert tips will help you choose, organise, and learn how to accessorise with jewellery easily and confidently.

Does this sound familiar? You have jewellery tucked away in drawers, some pieces you love, others you've forgotten - and yet, you're not making the most of your collection.

Or maybe you're unsure how to choose jewellery that works for your personal style and outfits, so you end up wearing the same few pieces on repeat.

I get it. As an Australian jewellery designer, I've spent decades creating pieces that help people express themselves. But styling jewellery isn't just about what you wear - it's about how you wear it and who you are.

I've put together these key tips to help you rediscover your jewellery collection, learn to make confident styling choices, and have fun experimenting while you're at it.

So let's dive in for practical and creative ideas to help sort out your jewellery style ...

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What's Your Personal Style?
Find Your 3 Words

There's not much point diving in to discover how to style jewellery if you're not clear on what your own personal style is. If that's the case for you, then this is the perfect first step to sort out your jewellery and other styling issues.

Maybe your wardrobe is a jumble of different styles, and you're not sure how to pull it all together. Or you've bought jewellery and clothing that looks great in theory but just doesn't feel right when you put it on. Or perhaps you know what you like, but you couldn't really describe it.

You're not alone. Even as a designer with years of experience, I found defining my personal style and figuring out what really works was just as challenging for me as it is for most people.

The 3 Words Method: A Game-Changer for Personal Style

This simple but powerful approach will help you pinpoint your signature style and make more intentional choices. You don't have to be a fashion tragic to find it incredibly helpful when working out how to dress and how to shop.

The 3 Words Method is the brainchild of fashion stylist Allison Bornstein. I came across the concept via the brilliant Articles of Interest podcast (the 'How to Dress' episode is a highly recommended listen, but all of them are great).

Various style aficionados have different ways of thinking about this method, but the core concept is beautifully simple:

Choose three words that best describe your personal style

Your 3 Words will act as a simple guiding framework when choosing outfits, jewellery, and accessories, ensuring everything you own and buy feels cohesive and true to you. Keep reading for some examples of 3 Word combinations to get some ideas of the types of words that will work for this process.

For this to work you need to step outside of fashion and trends: think about who you are as a person and how you want to present to the world. Also consider what you loved wearing a few years ago and how you might like to be dressing years in the future. What's consistent and feels authentically 'you'?

To come up with my own 3 Words, I started by creating a private Pinterest board, adding outfits and accessories that caught my eye and which I could genuinely imagine wearing. After collecting a good number of pins, I started to notice patterns, certain colours, silhouettes, and textures kept popping up.

After also looking through my existing wardrobe and some reflection, I landed on my three words:

• Simple - Clean lines, effortless styling, unfussy pieces.
• Colour-pop - Vibrant colours against neutral backgrounds.
• Graphic - Bold and clear shapes, stylised imagery and patterns.

Since defining my 3 Words, choosing clothes, jewellery, and accessories to wear or shop for has become much easier. In particular I can now much more easily avoid impulse purchases that sit unworn in my wardrobe or buying really lovely things ... which don't remotely suit me.

How to Find Your Own 3 Words

Ready to give it a go? Below are some ways to discover your own style words. Do one, or better still, do all of them and make your decision at the end of the process.

Option 1: The Inspiration Board Method

• Create a private Pinterest board, saved folder on Instagram, collection of screenshots or a similar way to collate images.
• Collect images of outfits, jewellery, accessories, and general looks that appeal to you and that you can imagine enjoying wearing.
• After collecting at least 20 images look for common themes, for example:
• Are the styles minimal or bold?
• Do bright colours dominate? Any particular colours?
• Is the vibe feminine, classic, artistic, etc?
• If there are similar types of patterns or other design elements, how would you describe them?
• Identify three words that sum up these recurring themes: ensure they really resonate with you, are likely to remain relevant and aren't about current trends.
• Again, you can also try the next option to see what it adds to your thinking before you decide.

Option 2: The Closet Audit Method

• Get out your favourite outfits: Choose the ones that make you feel confident and comfortable.
• Lay out your go-to jewellery pieces and accessories: Are they delicate? Chunky? Colourful? Statement pieces?
• Look for patterns: In fabric, colour, shape, mood and more.
• Choose the three words that describe what you love most about your personal style.
• You can also continue to the next option to see what else it adds to the process.

Option 3: The Word Association Method

• Without overthinking, write down 5-10 words that describe how you want to look and feel when dressed.
• Circle the top 3 words that resonate the most.
• If you're happy with what you've ended up with, then these are your three words.
• Otherwise, try the earlier options if you haven't already.

Examples of 3 Word Style Profiles

Need inspiration? Here are some word combinations to get you thinking:

• Classic - Elegant - Timeless (think pearls, fine gold chains, tailored pieces, neutral colours)
• Eccentric - Earthy - Romantic (gemstone jewellery, layered bracelets, flowy outfits, neutral colours paired with brighter nature-inspired highlights)
• Minimalist - Modern - Sleek (simple lines, monochrome looks, silver jewellery - either chunky or delicate)
• Bold - Playful - Statement (chunky rings, mismatched earrings, statement necklaces, bright colours)
• Edgy - Dark - Textured (black clothing, mixed metals, oxidised silver, spiky shapes)

How This Helps with Jewellery Choices

Once you have your 3 Words, always keep them in mind as a filter whenever you're choosing jewellery (or anything else in your wardrobe). Here are some ideas:

• If your words include something like 'minimalist', you might lean more towards delicate gold necklaces, sleek rings, and simple stud earrings.
• If your vibe is 'bold', then statement earrings, sculptural statement rings, and eye-catching colours may well be the way to go.

For some real world examples, here are some of our jewellery designs based on my own 3 Words that I feel are a fit:

The 3 Words Method will help you build a jewellery collection and choose pieces to wear that feel cohesive, authentic, and 100% you. Before you know it, you'll be styling your jewellery like a pro!

Using this method or otherwise getting clarity about your personal style should also help to reduce waste by avoiding purchases that don't work for you: increasingly important in an era where conscious slow fashion along with sustainable jewellery and clothing choices really matter.

So, what are your three words? Give it a try and see how it transforms the way you think about style.

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The Jewellery Reset Exercise:
Fall Back in Love with Your Collection

Has your jewellery collection become a cluttered mix of forgotten pieces, sentimental favourites, and the same few items you wear on repeat? You're not alone! Many of us accumulate jewellery over time but rarely take the opportunity to reset, refresh, and reconnect with our pieces.

If you've taken the time to work out your 3 Words (see above) or have another way of defining your personal style, doing a 'jewellery reset' is the perfect next step.

The Jewellery Reset Exercise will help you to:

• Reassess what you own and rediscover forgotten favourites.
• Align your jewellery with your personal style.
• Identify gaps that could be filled with new, versatile pieces.
• Organise and store your collection so it's more accessible and inspiring.

Step 1: The Jewellery Dump

Find a clear surface and gather every single piece of jewellery you own. Yes, even the ones hidden at the back of drawers or tangled up in an old jewellery box.

Seeing everything in one place makes it easier to evaluate what you have.

Take a moment to appreciate your collection. You may have more (or less) than you thought.

Step 2: Sort into Categories

Now, divide your jewellery into three simple piles:

1. Love & Will Wear: These are your go-to pieces that align with your personal style and will get plenty of wear. You can include sentimental pieces that you wear most days, such as a wedding ring or symbolic necklace. Keep these pieces front and centre.
2. Sentimental but Rarely Worn: Some jewellery is treasured for sentimental reasons but doesn't get much wear. Consider storing these safely but separately from your other jewellery, or finding new ways to incorporate them into outfits.
3. Not Your Style / Unworn: Be honest! If a piece no longer fits your style, feels outdated, or isn't something you enjoy wearing, put it aside (we'll decide what to do with these in Step 5).

Pro Tip: Try to identify themes with your 'keepers'. You'll get insights into choices you've made (or that others have made for you). Are you drawn to delicate jewellery, bold statement pieces, mixed metals, colourful gemstones? This will help identify what you love and will truly suit you.

Step 3: Find Gaps & Opportunities

Now that you've sorted your collection, you likely have at least several pieces that love and intend to wear. Now think about what's missing. Ask yourself:

• Do I have the basics covered (see below for must-have jewellery designs)?
• Do I have jewellery that suits different occasions (casual, work, dressy special events, holidays)?
• Are there gaps in my colour palette (eg. do you mostly have silver or gold and would like a mix, or do you love brightly coloured gemstones and there aren't many)?
• Do I need more layering or stacking options (eg. rings, bracelets, necklaces)?

Think about any gaps or improvements you've identified which will make your jewellery collection more versatile and more 'you'. Make a wishlist, describing the pieces you'd like to add. I suggest making a note of your 'why' for each piece or describing how it might be worn. That way it your decisions will still make sense when you look at your list later.

Keep reading below to help identify the 'must-have' pieces for your jewellery collection. Also see our Jewellery Shop Australia for inspiration.

Pro Tip: Don't feel any need to rush out and buy everything immediately. Keep your wishlist somewhere that's easy to find when you're ready to invest in new jewellery pieces. Considered slow fashion purchases are the go if you want your investment to last.

Step 4: Clean & Organise Your Collection

Clean Your Jewellery:

If the jewellery you've selected to keep is looking tired or hasn't been cleaned in a while, this is the perfect opportunity to clean it before you put it away. You wouldn't put your dirty clothes back into a drawer without washing them, so don't do that with your jewellery either.

Also cleaning jewellery before appropriately storing it means your pieces will be in great condition to wear when you're getting dressed.

We have a comprehensive Jewellery Care & Cleaning Guide for everything you need to know. Even if you only give your pieces a gentle wash and dry them well before storing, that will be a great start.

Give your jewellery collection a check and a clean a couple of times a year, with more frequent cleaning (especially a gentle wash) for pieces you wear often. Put it in your diary!

Organise & Store Your Jewellery:

Now it's time to organise and store your jewellery in a way that makes it easy see, access, and make use of. Here are some storage suggestions to get you thinking about what will work for you:

1. Keep favourites easily accessible:

   I really don't recommend using jewellery display stands that are out in the open. Free flowing air, dust and humidity are not your friends when it comes to jewellery - especially precious metals.

   One idea might be boxes with added padding and perhaps clear lids. My personal preference is stackable and purpose-built padded jewellery boxes with different sections for different types of jewellery.

   Go for whatever works for you that both protects your jewellery and allows you to access it easily and see what you've got with minimal effort. And it should fit your budget, of course.

2. Store delicate & problematic items carefully

   Don't let your metal or gemstone pieces rub or knock against each other when they're in storage. This will cause dents and scratches. For delicate and valuable pieces, think about using individual soft pouches or small padded boxes to keep them extra safe.

   For necklaces that are likely to tangle, use specially designed jewellery storage that will help with this. A great simple solution is to use drinking straws to slip chains through so that they can't easily get knotted.

3. Sort by type, colour, theme or sets

   Group similar pieces together in a way that works for you. The simplest way might be to have all rings, earrings, etc grouped together. This way when you're looking for, say, a pendant necklace, you can see what you've got of that type and pick the one that works.

   Alternatively group things by what you would wear together. Then you can quickly pull out a suite of pieces you want to wear with particular outfits without much thought. The downside to this method is that you may end up wearing the same sets repeatedly, so give your groupings a refresh occasionally.

(We'll be covering jewellery storage in depth soon! Stay tuned for our Jewellery Storage Guide with more tips and product recommendations)

Step 5: Refresh, Repurpose, or Re-Home Unwanted Jewellery

For the jewellery you aren't going to wear and have no reason to keep, you have a few options which don't involve just throwing it out:

• Repurpose - Could you wear a pendant on a new chain? Stack rings differently? Convert earrings into charms? Use a piece as a decoration?
• Gift or Donate - If a piece is still in great condition but no longer your style, consider passing it on to a friend or donating it.
• Sell or Trade - Higher-value or more unique pieces might be worth selling or swapping for something you'll actually wear.
• Scrap & Recycle - If it's precious metal (especially solid gold) you can potentially sell it as scrap, meaning the metal will be melted down and used again to make new jewellery or other products.

Ready to fill in the gaps? Discover versatile jewellery pieces in our most popular women's jewellery collection!

Pro Tip: Now your collection is refreshed, organised, and aligned with your personal style, make it a habit to do a Jewellery Reset from time to time - put it in your diary! Along with cleaning, of course. Your jewellery should be a joy to wear, not something forgotten and gathering dust.

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Jewellery Essentials:
Building a Collection That Works for You

You've refreshed your jewellery collection and identified any gaps. Now let's talk about must-have jewellery pieces that will form the foundation of a versatile, wearable jewellery wardrobe.

Jewellery wardrobe essentials don't have to be boring or generic. Instead, they should be pieces that work for your personal style and make it easier to accessorise both every day and for special occasions, whether you love bold statement jewellery, delicate minimalist designs, or something in between.

Here are the key types of essential jewellery designs to consider when curating your collection:

1. Everyday Staples: Effortless, Go-To Jewellery

Your everyday jewellery should be comfortable, versatile, and easy to wear. These are the pieces you reach for daily, that go with almost everything.

• Small Stud Earrings - Simple yet stylish, these suit any occasion. Have a selection of different metal colours and gems for variety.
• Gold or Silver Hoop Earrings - Simple pairs of gold and/or silver hoop earrings in a size that suits you are a must-have basic.
• Everyday Necklaces - Usually small necklaces with pendants or chain necklaces that work alone or layered.
• Stacking Rings & Other Simple Rings - Pieces that add personality and sparkle without overpowering.
• Comfortable Bracelets or Bangles - Lightweight and easy to wear every day.

2. Statement & Occasion Jewellery

For those times when you want your jewellery to stand out, bold, eye-catching pieces can elevate any outfit.

• Statement Earrings - The perfect way to add impact in a very visible way.
• Bold Necklaces - Pieces that instantly transform even the simplest outfit.
• Statement Rings or Cuffs - Conversation pieces that make a statement.

Pro Tip: Pair a statement piece with neutral clothing for an effortless wow factor. See our guide to How to Wear Statement Jewellery for more ideas.

3. Layering, Mixing & Matching Pieces

If you love versatility, layering jewellery is a great way to create different looks with the same pieces. Having these in your collection allows for endless layered and stacked combinations:

• Longer Chain Necklaces - Perfect for layering with pendants.
• Stackable Ring Sets - Wear alone or mix and match.
• Mix & Match or Mismatched Earrings - Play with asymmetry or different metals.

Looking for jewellery layering tips? Check out our handy guide: How to Mix, Match & Stack Jewellery. You might also like to read our Necklace Length & Style Guide for handy hints about choosing necklace lengths and styling them to suit your outfits.

4. Sentimental & Meaningful Jewellery

Your jewellery collection should also include pieces with personal significance. These are the ones you treasure—not just for how they look, but for what they represent. These could be pieces you've picked up for yourself or meaningful jewellery gifts from others.

• Birthstone Jewellery - A personal touch that's perfect for gifting too.
• A Custom or Engraved Piece - Something uniquely yours.
• Family Heirlooms or Vintage Finds - Timeless and sentimental.

Sentimental pieces don't have to be tucked away — consider layering them with your other jewellery to create a meaningful, stylish look.

Pro tip: Just because something is on a list of jewellery wardrobe essentials doesn't mean that you personally should own this type of design. Always be guided by your own sense of style and the types of jewellery that you will actually wear - and enjoy wearing.

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Bringing It All Together:
Always Know What Jewellery to Wear

Your jewellery collection should reflect your personality, your lifestyle, and how you like to dress - and of course your personal style. With a thoughtful collection, you'll always have the perfect jewellery to complement your outfits - whether you're dressing up, keeping it casual, experimenting with layering, or just having an ordinary day. Your jewellery styling woes will be over!

Explore our full Australian jewellery range for unique silver, gold, and gemstone jewellery to fill gaps in your collection and to get more inspiration. I hope you'll find something to treasure!

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Related Reading:

• Three Word Method - a great in-depth discussion on Indyx

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