Spring 2021 Jewelry Trends: The Essential Edit
Explore the 10 most striking jewelry trends set to define Spring 2021, from bold chains to joyful pearls, and discover how to elevate your style.
Jewelry has long served as the finishing touch that defines an ensemble, but for Spring 2021, the runways reaffirmed that bold, joyful, and statement-making pieces are the heart of fashion’s next chapter. From oversized chains and modern pearls to playful, mismatched earrings and pops of color, these trends are destined to energize your wardrobe. Read on for a comprehensive guide—and inspiration—to the season’s top 10 jewelry trends, including expert styling tips, shopping ideas, and answers to your pressing accessory questions.
Table of Contents
- Chunky Chains
- Bold Bracelets & Bangles
- Modern Pearls
- Asymmetrical & Mismatched Earrings
- Jewelry with Pops of Color
- Sculptural & Geometric Pieces
- Nostalgic Charms & Motifs
- Shoulder-Duster Earrings
- Playful Anklets
- Personalized Bling
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Chunky Chains
The reign of the chunky chain continues into 2021 with even bolder, more sculptural silhouettes. Oversized gold and silver links are no longer reserved for streetwear but appear everywhere—from runways to everyday essentials. Designers like Hermès and Victoria Beckham showcased substantial necklaces, earrings, and even chain-embellished bracelets and belts, proving that bigger truly is better this spring.
- Styling Tip: Let one chunky chain be the centerpiece of your outfit. Layer with finer pieces to add dimension without overloading the look.
- Materials: Gold, silver, mixed metals, resin, lucite.
- Seen at: Hermès, Victoria Beckham, Brandon Maxwell
Bold Bracelets & Bangles
Stacked bangles and bold bracelets made a triumphant return on spring runways. Whether it’s a rainbow of resin, ornate metal cuffs, or minimalist embraces of curved gold, this season’s wrists are adorned generously. Designers like Chloé, Proenza Schouler, and Ulla Johnson showed single statement cuffs and arms full of mismatched bracelets, signaling a new era of maximalist accessorizing.
- Wear a full stack of varied widths and materials for an eclectic, bohemian effect.
- Single, oversized cuffs inject modern drama into simple silhouettes.
- Combining metals, gemstones, and colorful acetate adds playfulness.
Modern Pearls
The pearl trend is enjoying a renaissance—with a twist. Forget stuffy, symmetrical strands; Spring 2021 pearls are organic, baroque, intentionally mismatched, and layered with abandon. Designers like Vivienne Westwood and Simone Rocha presented multi-strand necklaces, sculptural pearl drop earrings, and pieces that mixed pearls with chain and metal hardware for ultimate versatility.
- Layer rough, baroque pearls with gold for fresh contrast.
- Clustered pearl earrings and ear cuffs offer contemporary edge.
- Pearls in hair accessories, brooches, and bracelets channel modern romanticism.
Asymmetrical & Mismatched Earrings
One of the season’s standout statements is asymmetry. Designers showcased earrings in unmatched pairs, different lengths or even single statement pieces worn solo. Marni and Fendi created visual intrigue with playful combinations, making it clear: imperfection is in.
What others are reading
- Mix minimal hoops with dramatic drops for a conversation-starting look.
- Experiment with different shapes, colors, and materials on each ear.
- Wear a solo oversized earring for major impact.
Jewelry with Pops of Color
Colorful gemstones, acrylics, and enamels are everywhere for spring. Rather than subtlety, neon hues and pastel pops take center stage, appearing in beaded necklaces, dangly earrings, and whimsical rings. Names like Versace and Bottega Veneta embraced everything from luminous turquoise and bold coral to multicolor rainbow crystals.
- Pastel and bright beaded necklaces evoke pure nostalgia—and look fresh with neutrals.
- Resin and enamel pieces offer an artful twist on classic silhouettes.
- Layer bold colors for a maximalist statement, or use them to reflect your mood.
Sculptural & Geometric Pieces
Sculptural forms and modernism-inspired lines have taken precedence, with bold spherical accents, squared-off rings, and three-dimensional cuffs. Designers like Sportmax and Alexander McQueen delivered a gallery-ready vibe, making jewelry wearable art. Whether it’s coiled wire motifs, chunky orb earrings, or architectural pendants, geometry is the language of the season.
- Sphere earrings and rings balance minimalism with statement.
- Stackable geometric rings give a curated, designer feel.
- Sculpted bangles in mixed metals offer textural depth.
Nostalgic Charms & Motifs
Whimsical charms and playful motifs draw on childhood memories and escapist fantasy. Designers revisited hearts, smiley faces, fruit, stars, and seashells—offering jewelry as a conversation piece or mood booster. Whether strung on leather cord or clustered together on a chunky chain, the message is simple: accessories should spark joy.
- Layer charm necklaces for a personalized, talismanic effect.
- Choose motifs that mash up nostalgia with sophistication—think Chanel’s iconic bag charms, or gold fruit pendants.
- Move beyond the neck: charm anklets and bracelets are firmly back.
Shoulder-Duster Earrings
Shoulder-grazing statement earrings emerged as a key trend, with designers favoring dramatic lengths and swinging silhouettes. From crystal chandeliers at Valentino to minimalistic chain drops at Saint Laurent, these earrings instantly elevate any outfit—ideal for both Zoom calls and evenings out.
- Pair with swept-back hair or a sleek bun to let the earrings shine.
- Go for bold color or metallics for extra drama.
- Mix shoulder-dusters with subtle studs for a curated ear moment.
Playful Anklets
Y2K-inspired anklets are back, this time in elevated materials like gold, pearls, and multicolored beads. Designers including Versace and Jacquemus offered anklets as both luxury and streetwear statements, ideal for pairing with everything from sporty sandals to classic pumps.
- Wear single thin anklets for a minimalist take or layer multiples for boho appeal.
- Pearl, shell, and gemstone variations update the beachy classic.
- Try with tonal shoes or vibrant summer heels for a full fashion-forward effect.
Personalized Bling
Personalized jewelry such as nameplates, initials, zodiac signs, and meaningful dates is a major trend this spring. These pieces blend nostalgia and individuality, making every accessory feel unique. Found across necklaces, rings, and bracelets, personalization invites self-expression and thoughtful gifting.
- Combine name or initial pieces with more classic jewelry for a mixed, layered look.
- Zodiac and birthstone pieces add custom flair.
- Meaningful phrases, numbers, or coordinates provide a subtle, intimate detail.
Spring 2021 Jewelry Trends at a Glance
| Trend | Signature Materials | Styling Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Chunky Chains | Gold, silver, mixed metal, resin | Statement necklace or bracelet, layered with finer pieces |
| Bold Bracelets & Bangles | Metal, resin, gemstone, enamel | Single statement piece or stacked collections |
| Modern Pearls | Baroque pearls, metal, crystal | Layered necklaces, drop earrings, hair accessories |
| Asymmetrical Earrings | Mixed metal, acrylic, enamel | Solo or paired mismatched designs |
| Pops of Color | Colored stones, acrylic, enamel, beads | Beaded necklaces, crystal drops, stacked rings |
| Sculptural & Geometric | Metal, resin, crystal | Chunky orb earrings, architectural cuffs |
| Nostalgic Charms | Gold, enamel, colored stones, shell | Charm necklaces, bracelets, anklets |
| Shoulder-Duster Earrings | Crystal, metal, resin | Long chandelier or minimal chain earrings |
| Anklets | Gold, pearls, beads, shells | Layered or single, paired with sandals or pumps |
| Personalized Bling | Gold, silver, diamonds, birthstones | Nameplates, initials, zodiac, dates |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are bold, oversized chains still wearable after Spring 2021?
A: Absolutely. Chunky chains have become a modern classic in recent years. Opt for transitional styling by layering them with smaller, more delicate chains for an updated look as trends evolve.
Q: How can I style pearls without looking dated?
A: Choose organic, baroque pearls and layer them with edgy metal chains or colorful beads for a contemporary twist. Mixing textures and lengths creates a look that feels fresh, not fussy.
Q: What jewelry pieces work best for video calls?
A: Focus on statement earrings, layered necklaces, and colorful pieces that frame your face. Shoulder-duster earrings and asymmetrical pairs especially stand out on screen, adding instant polish to virtual looks.
Q: Are anklets appropriate for dressy outfits?
A: Yes. Modern anklets in fine gold, pearls, or gemstones can be paired with classic heels or sleek sandals for a chic effect—just keep the style streamlined and coordinate with your other accessories.
Q: Is mixing metals in jewelry still on trend?
A: Mixing metals has moved from trend to staple status. Pair gold, silver, and even rose gold pieces together for a curated, layered look that feels intentionally eclectic and modern.
References
- https://www.whowhatwear.com/spring-summer-jewelry-trends-2021
- https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/fashion-week/g34041265/spring-2021-jewelry-trends/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g34116782/spring-2021-jewelry-trends/
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/fashion/beautiful-spring-jewelry-trends
- https://brokenenglishjewelry.com/blogs/press/cosmopolitan-all-the-best-jewelry-trends-to-wear-year-round-and-forever
- https://www.okan-studio.com/en/blogs/news/cosmopolitan-sept-2021-tendances-bijoux-de-la-rentree
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/a45589450/spring-2024-jewelry-trends/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
