At one point in time, mixing jewelry metals was equivalent to a fashion faux pas. But these days, it’s considered a chic styling strategy that can help you make the most of both your gold and silver jewelry! And if mixing metals still makes you shudder, we’re here to make the case for why these two tones can go as well together as any pair of star-crossed lovers. Forget the forbidden romance, and let’s dive into how you can master the mixed jewelry stack.
1. Incorporate at least one piece that has both gold and silver
amazon
Mixed-Metal Watch
As with any new style, sometimes it’s best to start small as you get the hang of it! If you’re just starting to wade into the waters of mixed metals, try starting with a singular piece that does all of the hard work for you. Whether it’s a two-tone pair of earrings or a gold and silver watch, once you take that first step and see the mixed metals in action, it’s that much easier to add in pure silver or pure gold pieces.
This mixed-metal piece doesn’t just help you conquer your fear of mixed-metal jewels, either. It also acts as the perfect “bridge” piece to tie your whole jewelry collection together. If you want your mixed metals to look more intentional, a piece like this suggests that you really meant to pair both your silver and gold pieces together.
2. Create a mixed metal set
madewell
Gold Sculpted Chunky Bangle
madewell
Silver Sculpted Chunky Bangle
Another easy way to try out the new trendy look of mixed metal pieces? Wear a pair of pieces in each metal tone. A yellow gold bangle paired with a silver bracelet creates a matching set that looks like you bought them together. Even though they’re different metal tones, you know they’ll work well together because they have the same design.
These may be simple bracelets, but they’re the perfect way to make a statement when paired with your other simple pieces. If you’re dressing for warm weather, go for thicker jewelry like this for it to stand out and add a chic touch to your minimalist tank, pants, and flip flops. The gold and silver pieces add a striking contrast to your look!
3. Balance Your Metal Proportions
nordstrom
Organic Stacking Ring Set
Want to nail the trend of mixing silver and gold jewelry? Think “balance” when you’re putting on your pieces in the morning. Don’t overload yourself with silver necklaces and then add a single pair of gold earrings. You want to spread out the mixed metals throughout your look. Think a few gold and silver earrings on each hand (which could include wedding or engagement rings). Or a necklace stack that is made up of both silver and gold pieces. The trick is to lessen the tension between the two different metals by creating a harmonious balance between your pieces!
4. Mix Up Your Textures
amazon
Stainless Steel Twisted Cable Bracelet
If you’re trying to master the perfect jewelry stack with mixed metals, consider switching up the textures of your pieces. The key to creating a cohesive look is actually pairing together different styles! Think a twisted silver cable cuff paired with a smooth, gold bangle studded with diamonds. Then maybe incorporate a silver paper clip chain and a gold watch face. This is a creative way to add depth and dimension to your jewelry stacks.
5. Stick to One Finish
Mejuri
Dome Figure Ring (in Gold or Silver)
For a cohesive look, even with different metals, make sure the finish on your pieces is consistent. High-shine pieces go best with polished ones, while more muted, matte styles pair well together. Whatever your preference between the different types of finishes, just make sure that you commit to one style per outfit!
6. Keep to One Area
Wearing only a single gold necklace with silver earrings might look mismatched. To make the look appear more intentional, mix your metals together in at least one area. Create a necklace stack with both gold and silver pieces, or wear alternating rings in different metals. Or, wear both gold and silver bracelets on one arm! Mixing metals in a small area on your person draws attention to the fact that you clearly didn’t mix them by mistake.
pandora
Crossing Arrows Medallion Charm
7. Add in a few diamonds
j.crew
Round Cubic Zirconia Bezel-Set Tennis Bracelet
As the saying goes, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend!” And it turns out that they’re also an important player when it comes to mixing metals. If gold and silver are star-crossed lovers, think of diamonds as the ultimate wingman (or woman). Diamonds work well with both gold and silver pieces separately, which means that they can help squash any miscommunication trope between the two different metal types.
The good news is, you don’t have to shell out for real diamonds to get this look! Cubic zirconia look-alikes work just as well and come in at a much lower price point. You can choose both gold and silver pieces that have some sort of gem included, and they’ll help to bridge the gap between your purely gold or purely silver pieces.
8. Use Your Accessory Hardware
nordstrom
Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer
Of course, mixed metals don’t just stop with your jewelry! Chances are, there might be more metals found in your other accessories, too. From the horsebit detail on a pair of loafers to the charms on your handbag to belt buckles, these are all opportunities to try your hand at mixing gold and silver!
Your accessories’ metals shouldn’t just be an afterthought. If you’re wearing all silver jewelry, you should probably stick to silver accessory hardware, too. But if you’re mixing the metals of your jewelry, that’s the perfect opportunity to mix up the shades of belt buckle, your shoe hardware, or your bag grommets. Mixing these metals will really drive home the point that you’re styling your metal jewelry intentionally! Use your accessories’ metals to your advantage.
Mixing Metals Like a Pro
After so many years of being told that mixing silver and gold jewelry is a style no-no, it might be a little intimidating to try it out for the first time! But if you’re following these tips, you’ll be able to master it in no time. Make the most of all that your jewelry box has to offer, and elevate your look in a new, modern way while you’re at it.
You can elevate your daily look with more than just mixed metal jewelry! Up Next: How to Wear a Brooch: 7 Elegant Styling Tips
