The Art of Mixing Metals

mixed metals

“I think mixed metals are the flavour of the season.” ~ Falguni Peacock (at the India Couture Week, 2024)

History repeats! And whether this holds true for all phenomena or not, it certainly does so for fashion! The wardrobe staples of the 80s – denim jackets, power suits, baggy jeans & more – are all sneaking back into the gen-Z wardrobes. And not just the clothes, but the jewellery trends of that decade are also making a big comeback! We’ve been seeing chunky jewellery and mixed metal pieces everywhere! And we’re about to dig into the latter.

Gone are the days of picking a side—silver or gold. The latest jewellery trends are shaking things up by mixing gold, silver, and rose gold like pros. Mixing metals breaks the traditional rules of matching jewellery and opens up endless possibilities for self-expression. It’s no wonder that it has made a comeback now, in an era where individuality and standing out is so celebrated.

But here’s the catch—mixing metals isn’t just throwing everything together and hoping for the best. Oh no, it’s more like crafting the perfect cocktail. You’ve got to nail the balance and pick the right “ingredients” to get that flawless, eye-catching result.

So before you go about reinventing your jewellery style, here are a few tips to make sure you ace this trend.

Start Small

If you’re new to the mixed-metal scene, dip your toes in with a few key pieces. Maybe try a chic diamond ring in gold paired with a delicate silver bracelet. It’s a great way to get comfortable with the trend without going overboard.

Create a Focal Point

Let one piece stand out as the star of your look. This could be a stunning diamond ring or a pair of chunky gold earrings for women. Once you have your hero piece, mix metals around it for a cohesive yet interesting blend.

Know Your Metals

Different metals can complement different skin tones. Gold often suits warmer tones, while silver tends to flatter cooler tones. When mixing metals, make sure the overall effect enhances your complexion. Also, pay attention to whether your metals are matte, polished, or textured. Mixing finishes can add visual interest, but clashing textures might make your jewellery seem mismatched.

Aim For Symmetry

When mixing metals, it’s key to think about balance. You don’t want one metal overpowering the others, so aim for an even distribution across your jewellery. Start with a gold necklace, add silver rings, and maybe a rose gold bangle for a chic, balanced mix. The trick is to play with proportions and experiment until you find a combination that feels right.

Texture Matters

Mixing metals isn’t just about the colours — it’s also about the textures. Matte and polished finishes, hammered versus smooth surfaces, these small differences can add layers of depth to your look. Combining textures keeps things interesting and adds a modern twist to your jewellery. Just be mindful not to over-clash — the goal is cohesion with a touch of contrast.

When In Doubt,
Diamonds Always Help Out!

Diamonds are the ultimate game-changer when it comes to mixing metals. They act as the perfect bridge between different tones, making your mixed-metal look feel harmonious and sophisticated. Imagine a diamond necklace set that combines gold and silver links or diamond earrings where rose gold and platinum come together beautifully. So if you’re ever stuck on how to make your mixed metals work together, here’s the golden (or silver, or rose gold) rule: throw some diamonds into the mix!

Diamond Necklace Set

Keep Experimenting

Never shy away from experimenting! Jewellery, at the end of the day, is all about expressing who you are. So it’s not you who has to adapt to the trend, but instead make the trend work for you, in a way that feels most natural.

In The End…

Mixing metals is all about having fun, and the only limit is your imagination. So go ahead – mix, match and take risks with your jewellery… the spotlight is yours for the taking!

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