10 Contemporary Jewelry Trends to Watch in 2018

You can always rely on contemporary jewelry to add flair and interest to any outfit. Take a look at what’s expected to be hot and happening this 2018.

Keyword(s): contemporary jewelry

As the seasons change, we tend to get tired of the older pieces we’ve been wearing day in and day out. New, statement-making jewelry is the perfect way to breathe some new life into your look–from big, bold earrings to layered necklaces and, perhaps most surprisingly, the return of the brooch.

You can always rely on contemporary jewelry to add flair and interest to any outfit. Take a look at what’s expected to be hot and happening this 2018.

1. Anklets

Anklets are back, baby. Before you write this trend off as an atrocity best left in the past–we encourage you to keep an open mind. 2018’s anklets are perfectly suited to our grown-up selves. Think dainty chains finished off with a pearl or metallic beads. See our anklet selection.

Layer a few of these bad boys on top of one another for some added texture. And hey, in the spring and summer months, you’ll appreciate the low-key upgrade this gives your plain sundress or shorts and a tee.

2. Asymmetry

Asymmetrical baubles are hot right now–from necklaces that dangle slightly askew to mismatched earrings. While the latter may sound hard to pull off without looking a little crazed–think again.

The New York Times deemed matching “uncool.” And for good reason. The norm has long been matching sets, twin earrings rather than complimentary friends.

With earrings, though, you’ll need a little finesse to pull off the asymmetrical trend. Look for earrings that complement one another–think one intricate drop earring, and a smaller, more subdued earring on the other ear. Make sure the metals are the same for a sense of cohesiveness.

3. Long, Long Earrings

It seems like every year there’s a new take on extravagant earrings. This year, keep an eye out for shoulder-grazing statement earrings complete with tassels, beads, and beyond.

And the bigger, the better is definitely true here. Our favorite versions of this trend are complete with unique textures–if you’re going to make a statement, say it loud and proud.

4. Updated Pearls

The new takes on pearls aren’t for clutching. We’ve seen plenty of pearl adorned dresses, shoes, and more as of late, but we’re more excited about the contemporary jewelry comeback of this lunching ladies’ staple.

Break free from your style rut and explore pearls in a whole new way. A single pearl on an anklet or pendant is a nice way to add interest to a simple chain, while one pearl earring can play the straight man to a wild piece on the other ear.

5. Layered Necklaces

Say goodbye to chokers and look the other way toward the layered necklace. This trend is a mashup of a delicate chain that fits like a choker, with longer chains hanging down.

Delicate and simple works best, especially when multiple chains come into play, but feel free to adorn with charms and stones for some added personality.

6. Pinky Rings

Include more fingers in your existing ring party. Midi rings have been big for quite some time, but pinky rings have been conspicuously left out for quite some time.

Tiny gold or brass rings look super cute on the smallest finger and add the finishing touch to a handful of finger jewelry. Shake the negative connotations of yesteryear and get on board–it’s an easy, modern way to enhance your jewelry game.

If you’re not ready for the pinky, opt for a hammered sterling silver boho look.

7. Brooches and Pendants

Brooches are back–and it’s a long time coming. While they might not be the piece of contemporary jewelry you expected in 2018, we welcome the resurgence. No longer the grandma bauble relegated to the back of the jewelry box, the younger set is getting on board with this bejeweled jacket topper.

The stodgy reputation of the brooch seems a little unfair, and it seems tastemakers are finally back on board with this easy way to upgrade a plain collar, lapel, or hat.

Pendants are right alongside this trend. No longer “grandma jewelry” but seen on the latest trendsetters around the world. Choose bright or muted in silver for the right look.

8. Plastic and Enamel

What goes around comes around–those staples of the 80’s, acrylic hoops and enamel-enhanced pendants–they’re all back again. Lest you worry about looking like a child playing dress-up–stick to one statement piece at a time and avoid super bright colors.

Instead, look toward clear lucite, tortoiseshell, or black and white.

We’re not huge fans of this trend as we believe it looks tacky, but if you must, you must…

9. Button Earrings

It’s not just you, there’s definitely a pattern at play–most of these trends have something to do with making your earlobes a focal point. Button earrings have been laying low in church sale bargain bins for the past few decades, but these face-framing studs are the perfect way to add some color to a minimalist ensemble.

How to make these feel more 2018 than 1988? Look toward luxe stones and slightly mismatched pairs.

10. Vintage

This latest iteration of the vintage jewelry trend covers both actual old-school gems and the vintage-inspired. Like most of the other entries on the list, the comeback pieces are going to be of the big and bold variety.

Mix and match bold vintage brooches and aged metal rings with contemporary jewelry like slim chains, asymmetrical earrings and a collection of midi and pinky rings. The beauty of vintage is, going with the old stuff gives you the opportunity to create a unique jewelry wardrobe.

Shop Contemporary Jewelry

Jewelry is such a fun way to update your personal style. While we’re fans of items that last a lifetime, a few new piece of contemporary jewelry can be just the thing your wardrobe needs to feel fresh–even if you’re the kind of gal who lives in neutrals and skinny jeans.

Browse our collection of modern classics and on-trend pieces. We’re sure you’ll find something you love!

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