8 Ways to Style Statement Necklaces

Your jewelry can make or break an outfit, so it makes sense to consider how you're wearing your favorite pieces. Nothing could be truer than when styling a statement necklace. Whether you're heading out the door in a casual outfit, or you're dressed to the nines in a black dress for a big event, bold pieces of jewelry enhance your look and make it memorable. With that in mind, this guide will tell you how to style your statement pieces with your entire wardrobe.

What is a Statement Necklace?

The best way to define a statement necklace is to bring to mind something that makes an impact. In some cases, it will be the only item you wear, while in others, you may mix and match the necklace with the other items in your jewelry box. If you usually put on a thin chain with a simple pendant, you can envision a statement necklace as the complete opposite.

The great thing about a statement piece is that it can be a big and bold necklace, but it can also make a statement by being unique and different than anything else you own. There is a huge variety of choices that are sure to become conversation starters, including colors that span the spectrum and many textures and materials that give you unlimited possibilities for pairing the piece with your clothing.

Artistry is another factor that makes for the perfect piece to complement your wardrobe and make a statement at the same time. Anything that clearly took hours or days to design and create is going to make a visual impact anytime you wear it.

The History of Statement Necklaces

Bold accessories aren't new and have been around for years, dating back centuries even. Jewelry can be dated back to even the earliest civilizations in some format or another.

The oldest known piece of jewelry is approximately 75,000 years old and was found in a cave in South Africa along the Cape shore. It was made by drilling small holes into snail shells, then using them as beads and stringing them into a necklace. Approximately 35,000 years after this necklace was made, Kenyans used the eggshells leftover from ostrich eggs to make beaded necklaces. Another 5,000 years later, Bulgarians were using seashells as beads, stringing them into necklaces. There's also evidence in Bulgaria during this time period that teeth were used to create jewelry. These first examples of stylish statement necklaces are the foundation on which future jewelry was and continues to be modeled upon.

Other evidence from around the world also points to early jewelry artistry, including a necklace created with fish bones that was discovered about 25,000 years ago in Monaco. During this period, the bones and teeth of many animals and fish were often worn, as they proved to be durable and long-lasting.

In ancient Sumer, precious metals made their way onto the scene, with gold being used quite often. This is also when gemstones began to appear in statement pieces, which were worn by royalty, as well as commoners. The Sumerians are also known for having imported jewelry making materials, such as gold, silver, lapis lazuli and carnelian. Granulation and filigree techniques can also be credited to the ancient Sumerians and statement pieces quickly became the predominant part of a woman's wardrobe.

Ancient Egypt is very well known for its large, bold and beautiful pieces of jewelry, with both men and women wearing them. The time's technology, coupled with the availability of precious metals and lapis lazuli, offered the opportunity to create luxurious and elaborate pieces that adorned a variety of people during this time.

Jewelry in mass production dates to the ancient Romans, who used colored gemstones, gold, glass, silver and bronze to create their pieces, which were worn as a way to showcase social status. White gold was prized by the wealthy, while the commoners often wore white bronze instead.

Fast forward to modern times and you will see a huge variety of bold, eye-catching pieces that bring out the best in a basic outfit, but also work well with dressy outfits. Rev up boring outfits or bring instant appeal to an evening outfit with a statement piece.

Why to Wear a Statement Necklace

Before we discuss how to style your favorite statement jewelry, let's consider why you should incorporate the item to create a killer outfit that stands out in the best way.

• Boosts confidence
• Adds drama to your daily outfit
• Frames your face
• Adds a fun pop of color
• Creates visual appeal
• Makes for a great conversation starter
• Can be worn in so many ways

No matter what your personal style or favorite items of clothing, there's sure to a be piece of statement jewelry that enhances it. Let's talk about how to pair your favorite bold statement necklace with your wardrobe.

How to Wear the Perfect Statement Necklace

If you're tired of the same old look and want to take your style to the next level, a bold statement necklace is just what you've been looking for. With so many styles of statement necklaces, you have plenty of options for creating brand new outfits that are sure to make a fabulous statement.

Let it Take Center Stage

The goal when you put on an amazing piece of jewelry is to let it shine as the star of your outfit. That means pairing the necklace with neutral colors or earthy colors, such as an all-black outfit, a white shirt and skinny jeans or something else understated that creates the ideal backdrop for the necklace. Likewise, your other jewelry should be small and subtle, such as a pair of stud earrings, paired with a chunky statement necklace with a colored gemstone.

Make a Night Out to Remember

If you're going out on the town, chances are there will be photos, which means you need to stand out in the best way. Nothing makes this easier than with a bright piece that looks stunning, a simple cocktail dress as the blank canvas. A bold pearl necklace is also an elegant and sophisticated choice for pairing with dressy outfits in dark colors.

Add Some Pattern

While statement necklaces look outstanding with a basic top, you can also pair them with bright colors and busy patterns to create joyful outfits that everyone is going to love. Choose a colored shirt with a floral pattern or an animal print dress to set the scene, then add a chic necklace in a fabulous color to match. A pink necklace adds the perfect drama factor to bold patterns.

Consider Wearing Stripes

In keeping with the above suggestion, stripes are one of those busy patterns that are just screaming for a statement piece, whether it's a cozy sweater or your favorite dressy shirt. With stripes typically being just two colors, this is a great introduction for making your necklace the center of attention. Try a large pendant in color that matches your stripes and you're all set with the perfect accessory for day and night.

Liven Up a Plain Neckline

Plain kinds of necklines make the perfect backdrop for your statement jewelry. This brings visual interest to an otherwise boring top and lets you make a bold impact with your outfit. Stay away from statement necklaces if you are wearing an illusion neckline or decorative neckline as the result will be busy and overwhelming. Consider an abalone necklace with a scooped or V-neck top.

Add Drama to a Work Outfit

Just because you're headed to work doesn't mean you can't stand out. In fact, a statement necklace is a great choice to pair with a button-front shirt or other classic work outfit. This lets you style your typical office wear in fun and interesting ways, while still adhering to any dress code rules that you must follow. Consider layering a geometric statement necklace over a button-down or sweater.

Dress Up a Day Outfit

A glamorous statement necklace is an absolute game-changer when it comes to adding flair to an everyday outfit. Diamonds on a chain and clear crystal necklaces are the perfect choice for glamming up a simple graphic tea or beachy blue dress. It's a look that will be sure to turn heads and something you wear again and again.

Match Everything

Above all, it's important to ensure your jewelry matches your clothing. No matter what you're wearing, your statement necklace should be in the same color palette or complementary color on the color wheel. Whether you're wearing it with a white shirt, a colored outfit, or something else, make sure everything meshes together for the best look. Consider a glamorous choker necklace as your go-to choice.

Summary

Instead of buying a whole new wardrobe, revamp your everyday outfits, work wardrobe and formal wear with bolder pieces of jewelry, bringing new life to everything in your closet. A bright statement necklace is not just for special occasions.  boosts your confidence, adds drama and flair to your style, and will make you smile every time you see it.

Please feel free to browse the Michael & Sons website for our selection of statement necklaces suitable for all and any occasion.