Jewelry is the ultimate finishing touch—it can elevate or completely date an outfit. While your favorite pieces might hold sentimental value, some trends that once sparkled now feel more like relics of the past.
1. Chunky Beaded Necklaces
Remember those oversized, candy-colored bead necklaces that were everywhere in the early aughts? While they were fun then, they now scream throwback in all the wrong ways. If you still love a statement piece, opt for modern, geometric pendants or artisanal beaded designs with natural stones for a more elevated vibe.
2. Matchy-Matchy Jewelry Sets
Perfectly matching necklaces, earrings, and bracelets may feel safe, but they’re also a surefire way to date your look. The modern approach to accessorizing is about mixing metals, textures, and styles to create a curated, layered effect that feels effortless yet intentional.
3. Plastic Bangles in Loud Colors
While they ruled the fashion scene in the ’80s and had a brief resurgence in the 2000s, brightly colored plastic bangles are firmly in the past. Swap them for sleek cuffs in gold, silver, or rose gold—or mix a few delicate bracelets for a more contemporary stacked look.
4. Jingling Charm Bracelets
The once-iconic charm bracelet packed with dozens of dangling trinkets feels more nostalgic than chic today. If you’re attached to the concept, try a minimalist version with one or two meaningful charms on a delicate chain for a fresh and modern interpretation.
5. Grandma Rhinestone Brooches
Rhinestone brooches had their time to shine (looking at you, the 1950s), but they can now appear stuffy and outdated. If you love a brooch moment, go for abstract, sculptural designs in metal or enamel that feel more like wearable art than a trip to grandma’s jewelry box.
6. Large Embellished Hoop Earrings
Classic hoops are timeless, but oversized hoops dripping with charms, beads, or other heavy embellishments feel overdone and dated. Stick to sleek, clean hoops in varying sizes, or experiment with interesting shapes like ovals or asymmetrical designs for a contemporary twist.
7. Pearls Worn the Traditional Way
While pearls are a forever classic, the traditional single-strand necklace can feel matronly if styled the wrong way. Modernize this timeless gem by opting for baroque pearls, layered pearl chains, or designs that mix pearls with metals for a bold yet sophisticated update.
8. Ornate Cocktail Rings
Big, overly ornate cocktail rings with faux gemstones might have been a statement once, but now they often look more like a costume party than couture. For a more current aesthetic, opt for sculptural rings with clean lines or bold, minimalist designs featuring one striking stone.
9. Leather Cord Jewelry
Leather cord necklaces and bracelets had their heyday in the ’90s and early 2000s, but they’ve lost their edge in recent years. Replace them with sleek chain necklaces or layered dainty pieces in mixed metals to give your look a polished and contemporary upgrade.
10. Delicate Barely-There Jewelry
While minimalist jewelry is still in style, pieces that are so delicate they barely register can come across as uninspired. Layering multiple thin necklaces or mixing dainty pieces with bolder accents adds depth and keeps your look modern without overwhelming it.
11. Oversized Statement Earrings
Huge, over-the-top statement earrings dripping with rhinestones or feathers may have turned heads once, but now they can feel heavy and outdated. Instead, look for sculptural or artful designs in neutral tones or metallics that make a statement without overwhelming your look.
12. Crystal Chokers (or Any Choker)
The Y2K crystal chokers we all loved back in the day now feel more costume-y than chic. If you love chokers, opt for sleek, modern versions in leather, velvet, or thin chains that pair effortlessly with today’s fashion-forward ensembles.
13. Gigantic Cross Pendants
Oversized cross necklaces may have been a fashion staple in certain eras, but they now feel out of sync with contemporary trends. For a modern religious or spiritual symbol, look for subtle, minimalist designs that add a personal touch without overwhelming your outfit.