What Jewelry Looks Best on Me: A Complete Guide
by Werneri Grundström
·9 minutes
Selecting jewelry that enhances your natural beauty and aligns with your personal style is both an art and a science. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of jewelry, considering crucial factors like face shape, skin tone, and individual preferences to find pieces that truly shine on you.
Face Shape
Your face shape is a key factor in determining which jewelry styles will complement your features most effectively. Understanding your face shape can help you choose pieces that balance your proportions and highlight your best features.
Round Face
Round faces are characterized by soft curves and approximately equal width and length. The cheeks are often the widest part of the face, with a rounded chin and forehead. If you have a round face, your goal in choosing jewelry is to create the illusion of length and to minimize the appearance of fullness in the cheeks.
To create the illusion of a longer, more oval shape:
- Opt for long, dangling earrings that extend below the chin. These draw the eye downward, creating a lengthening effect. Teardrop or linear designs work particularly well.
- Choose V-shaped or Y-shaped necklaces that form a vertical line, elongating the neck and face. Pendant necklaces that fall below the collarbone can also help create a slimming effect.
- Experiment with narrow, vertical pendants that hang at or below the collarbone. These can help to create the illusion of a longer, leaner silhouette.
Avoid chokers or short necklaces that emphasize the roundness of your face. Also, steer clear of circular earrings that mirror your face shape, as these can accentuate the roundness rather than balance it.
Consider layering necklaces of different lengths to create visual interest and a slimming vertical line. This technique can be particularly effective in drawing the eye up and down rather than across the face.
Oval Face
Oval faces are often considered the most versatile when it comes to jewelry choices. This face shape is characterized by balanced proportions, with the forehead slightly wider than the chin and cheekbones at the widest point. The length of an oval face is typically about one and a half times its width.
You have the freedom to experiment with a wide range of styles:
- Try hoop earrings of any size, from small and delicate to large and bold. Oval faces can carry off most earring styles beautifully.
- Experiment with chokers to highlight your neck, or opt for long necklaces to add variety. The balanced proportions of an oval face allow for flexibility in necklace lengths.
- Don't shy away from statement pieces - your balanced features can carry them well. Whether it's a dramatic pair of chandelier earrings or a bold collar necklace, oval faces can often pull off more daring jewelry choices.
While most styles work, pay attention to your other features (like neck length or hair style) when choosing necklaces or earrings. For example, if you have a shorter neck, you might prefer longer necklaces over chokers.
The key with oval faces is to maintain the natural balance of your features. While you can wear most styles, avoid overwhelming your face with pieces that are too large or busy, as this can disrupt your natural symmetry.
Square Face
Square faces are characterized by a strong jawline and equally wide forehead, cheekbones, and jaw. The sides of the face are usually straight, and the chin has a minimal curve, creating an overall angular appearance. If you have a square face, your goal in choosing jewelry is often to soften these angular features and create the illusion of length.
To balance these angular features:
- Choose round or oval-shaped earrings to contrast with the straight lines of your face. Hoop earrings, especially elongated ovals, can be particularly flattering as they add curves to balance your strong jaw.
- Opt for circular pendants or curved designs in necklaces to soften your features. Layered necklaces with varying lengths and circular elements can help to break up the straight lines of your face.
- Consider curved chokers or collar necklaces that sit just above the collarbone. These can help to soften the angle of your jaw while drawing attention to your neck.
Avoid angular or square-shaped jewelry that might emphasize the squareness of your face. Instead, look for pieces with soft curves and rounded edges to create contrast.
Long, dangling earrings with curved elements can help soften your jawline while adding an elegant touch. Drop earrings or chandeliers with flowing designs can be especially flattering, as they add movement and soften the overall look of your face.
Heart-Shaped Face
Heart-shaped faces typically have a wider forehead and cheekbones with a narrow, sometimes pointed chin. This face shape is characterized by high cheekbones and a jawline that tapers towards the chin, creating a sweet and feminine look. The goal when choosing jewelry for a heart-shaped face is to create balance by adding width to the lower part of the face.
To create balance:
- Wear teardrop or triangular earrings that point upward, drawing attention to your cheekbones and eyes. These shapes echo the natural lines of your face while balancing its proportions.
- Choose choker necklaces to highlight your slender neck and create the illusion of a fuller lower face. Chokers can help to visually shorten a long neck and draw attention to the middle of your face.
- Layer necklaces that create a V-shape to echo and complement your face shape. This can help to balance the width of your forehead and create a harmonious look.
Avoid very large, round earrings or short necklaces with round pendants that might emphasize your wider forehead. These shapes can make the top of your face appear even wider, exaggerating the heart shape.
Chandelier earrings can be particularly flattering, as they add width at the jawline while their movement draws attention to your entire face. Look for styles that are wider at the bottom to create the illusion of a fuller lower face.
Skin Tone
Your skin tone plays a crucial role in determining which metal colors will look most flattering against your complexion. Understanding your undertones can help you choose jewelry that makes your skin glow.
Cool Undertones
Cool undertones are characterized by pink, red, or blue hues in the skin. If you find that your skin has a slightly rosy or bluish tinge, especially visible on the inside of your wrist or under natural light, you likely have cool undertones. People with cool undertones often look best in jewelry that complements these cooler hues.
If your skin has pink, red, or blue undertones, here's how to make the most of your cool-toned complexion:
- Embrace silver jewelry for a sleek, modern look.
- Invest in white gold pieces for a touch of luxury that flatters your skin.
- Consider platinum accessories for special occasions - they're hypoallergenic and enhance your cool tones.
Cool-toned gemstones like sapphires, amethysts, and blue topaz can also beautifully complement your skin. Experiment with mixing cool-toned metals for an on-trend layered look.
Warm Undertones
Warm undertones are characterized by golden, peachy, or yellow hues in the skin. If your skin seems to have a slightly golden or olive cast, particularly visible in natural light, you likely have warm undertones. People with warm undertones often find that gold-toned jewelry enhances their natural glow.
For those with golden, peachy, or yellow undertones, consider the following options:
- Yellow gold jewelry will give you a sun-kissed glow.
- Rose gold accessories can add a romantic, feminine touch.
- Copper-toned pieces offer a unique, earthy vibe that complements warm skin.
Warm-toned gemstones like rubies, garnets, and citrines can further enhance your natural warmth. If you love the look of silver but have warm undertones, try oxidized silver jewelry for a unique twist that flatters your skin.
Neutral Undertones
Neutral undertones are characterized by a balance of both warm and cool hues in the skin. If you find it difficult to determine whether your skin leans more towards pink or golden tones, you may have neutral undertones. This versatile skin tone allows for the greatest flexibility in jewelry choices.
If you have neutral undertones, you hit the jewelry jackpot! Your versatile skin tone allows you to wear any metal color with confidence. Here's how to make the most of your adaptable complexion:
- Mix silver and gold for a trendy, eclectic look.
- Combine rose gold with white gold for a soft, romantic style.
- Layer platinum with yellow gold for a luxe, high-end appearance.
Your ability to wear any metal color opens up endless possibilities for creative combinations and layering. Use your versatility to invest in diverse pieces that you can mix and match for any occasion.
Personal Style
While face shape and skin tone are important considerations, your personal style should always be the primary factor in choosing jewelry. Your jewelry should be an extension of your personality and complement your overall aesthetic.
Minimalist
Minimalism in jewelry is characterized by clean lines, simple shapes, and a "less is more" approach. This style appeals to those who appreciate understated elegance and believe that even small, subtle pieces can make a significant impact. Minimalist jewelry often focuses on high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship rather than ornate designs.
If you prefer a clean, understated look:
- Choose thin chain necklaces that add a subtle sparkle.
- Opt for small stud earrings in classic shapes like circles or squares.
- Select dainty rings that can be worn alone or stacked for added interest.
The key to minimalist jewelry is choosing high-quality pieces with clean lines and simple designs. Look for pieces that make a statement through their craftsmanship rather than their size or complexity.
Bohemian
Bohemian style, often referred to as "boho," is characterized by a free-spirited, eclectic approach to fashion and jewelry. This style draws inspiration from nature, different cultures, and artistic expression. Bohemian jewelry often incorporates a mix of materials, textures, and symbols, creating a look that's both personal and visually intriguing.
For a free-spirited, eclectic vibe:
- Layer necklaces of varying lengths, mixing chains with pendant charms.
- Stack bangles and bracelets, combining different textures and materials.
- Choose oversized hoop earrings or long, dangling styles with natural elements.
Bohemian jewelry often incorporates natural materials like wood, shell, and semi-precious stones. Don't be afraid to mix metals and experiment with unconventional color combinations. Create a personalized look by combining family heirlooms or travel souvenirs with new bohemian-style pieces.
Classic
Classic style in jewelry is defined by timeless, elegant pieces that never go out of fashion. This style appeals to those who appreciate tradition, refinement, and versatility in their accessories. Classic jewelry pieces are often considered investment items due to their enduring appeal and quality craftsmanship.
If your style leans towards timeless elegance:
- Invest in a strand of high-quality pearls - they never go out of style.
- Choose diamond or cubic zirconia studs for everyday sparkle.
- Select simple gold or silver chains that can be worn alone or with pendants.
Classic jewelry is all about enduring style. Look for pieces with clean lines and traditional designs that will stand the test of time. Build a collection of classic pieces that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Statement
Statement jewelry is bold, eye-catching, and designed to be the focal point of an outfit. This style is perfect for those who love to express themselves through their accessories and aren't afraid to stand out. Statement pieces often incorporate large gemstones, unique designs, or innovative materials to create a dramatic effect.
For those who love to make a splash:
- Choose chunky necklaces with large pendants or intricate designs.
- Opt for chandelier earrings that catch the light and draw attention.
- Select cocktail rings with colorful gemstones or unique, artistic designs.
When wearing statement jewelry, remember that less is often more. Let one dramatic piece take center stage rather than competing with multiple bold items. Use statement jewelry to elevate a simple outfit or to express your mood and personality.
Conclusion
While these guidelines can help you choose jewelry that complements your features and style, remember that the most important factor is how the jewelry makes you feel. If a piece resonates with you and boosts your confidence, it's the right choice.
Experiment with different styles, have fun mixing and matching, and trust your instincts. The jewelry that looks best on you is ultimately the jewelry that makes you feel like the most authentic, confident version of yourself.
