
There are two ways we are going to fight back against the wave of frumpy styles being pushed on us as we get older: a wardrobe of modern classics combined with a selection of modern accessories. When one or the other is off, an outfit can look dated and therefore a little frumpy.
There is only one problem when it comes to modernizing our accessories: Many of them are sentimental and special. We are not going to stop wearing our wedding set or our mother’s earrings because they are out of style.
Fortunately, mixing your sentimental pieces with modern ones can be a quick and easy update.
- Combine a classic string of pearls with a modern chunky chain.
- Wear the pieces of a set separately and make the other pieces modern. So for example, wear just the pendant, maybe paired with other modern necklaces, and then keep the earrings simple and contemporary, i.e. a pair of dainty hoops.
- Try to wear only 1-2 special pieces at a time, if you feel they are dated, and mix them with modern ones.
What are the dated pieces I’m referring to? Here are 3 examples.
- Bat Statement: Over the top statement jewelry from 5 or more years ago looks very dated in 2023.
- Bad Settings: Elaborate settings like the one in the middle are definitely dated.
- Bad Sets: Prim and matched jewelry sets like this are out of style and also look matronly.



So what are these modern pieces? And how many of them should you have?
In today’s video, I talk about the 9 modern classic jewelry pieces every woman should own, and share some suggestions from a new brand that I’m loving, Gingiberi.
I think you’ll love this brand as much as I do! Jewelry collector Emily Smith found a gap in the market and went from collector to designer. She wanted jewelry that was:
- Sustainable
- Ethical
- Beautiful
- Modern
- Affordable
- High Quality
I’ve been loving the pieces I chose from Gingiberi and can’t wait for you to fall in love with them as well. You can use my code NADA15 for 15% off your order.
You can shop my favorites right here:
1. Low Tea https://bit.ly/43nKIu2
2. Hollow https://bit.ly/3Gxj5oh
3.Number123 https://bit.ly/41bIdJd
4. Lucky Dreamer https://bit.ly/402St5K
5. Treasure https://bit.ly/3KmN43q
6. Karma statement https://bit.ly/41faG0Q
7. color carnival https://bit.ly/43wLJQz




And now, for the 9 modern classic jewelry pieces that every woman needs.
The Chain Necklace
Whether it’s chunky or more delicate, a chain necklace is a modern classic. Chunky chains have enough interest to stand on their own, while delicate styles can modernize that special favorite pendant. Delicate chains with pearls, crystals, or stones look beautiful layered with other necklaces.




The Pendant Necklace
A pendant necklace now looks different than the long dramatic pendants of a few years ago. They are generally more simple and delicate, or chunky but minimal. A pendant can be special (a locket or a cross, for example) or just for fun, but either way it adds interest to the most simple outfits.


The Bangle
The bangle is back, if it ever really went anywhere, and now we are seeing streamlined minimal designs as well as styles that are chunky yet still simple. This adds instant modernity to an outfit and will definitely update that special bracelet you always wear.



The Chain Bracelet
From a simple diamond tennis bracelet to a chunky gold chain bracelet, the options here are endless. These look fabulous on their own or as part of a bracelet stack.

The Hoop Earring
Hoop earrings go in and out of trendiness, but they never go out of style. Modern hoops are simple and sculptural, but if you have that box checked already, go for a pair that is oversized, artistic, or embellished. Textured hoops are a great update to this modern classic.




The Stud Earring
I used to think I was not a stud earring kind of woman, until I discovered some of the new and modern styles of studs. These are anything but basic, and are a fabulous choice if you want to put on your jewelry and forget about it for a while.





The Pearl Necklace
Pearls are classic and feminine, yes, but they can also border on matronly. Update your classic string of pearls by pairing it with a chunky chain, or choose an updated take on a pearl necklace with one of these options.



The Statement Ring
I used to call these cocktail rings, but as I rarely have cocktails, I think it’s more relatable (for me, anyway) to call these statement rings. These are fun, often oversized, rings that add interest to an outfit. And they’re not just for evening anymore.




The Subtle Ring
A slim, stackable and delicate ring is beautiful and feminine, and can be the perfect style if you want an accent that doesn’t draw too much attention to your hands. These pair well with your favorite special or sentimental rings.



The Colored Gemstone
After a hiatus of a few years, colored stones are back in a big way, and many of us never truly stopped wearing them. Skip the sets and choose simple pieces in your favorite colors for a fun pop of color in an outfit.



Which of these jewelry categories are you missing from your wardrobe? And which is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
Nada Manley says
Thanks for the comment!
Nada Manley says
Thanks for the comment!
Signet Ring UK says
Gorgeous jewellery! Love the designs of all these jewelry, Thanks and keep sharing.
Contemporary Jewellery says
Wonderful post. Its nice and interesting. Thanks for sharing.