Wondering what this year’s jewellery trends might be and how to wear them? Fashion is a fickle beast, and as always, new styles have emerged and new rules apply this year that may well render everything you thought you knew about jewellery obsolete.
That might be a bit of an overstatement, but there are some emergent trends in the world of accessorising that are pretty exciting. If you’re planning on buying jewellery this year for the next, then here are 8 trends to look out for in 2025.
Dopamine Jewellery
When it comes to fashion in 2025, it’s all about dopamine dressing – mood-boosting bright colours that make you feel good. This has been realised in OTT dresses with vibrant colours and feel-good prints still hitting the high street stores with enthusiasm.
Dopamine dressing has also extended to our jewellery, with playful pieces that spark joy showing no sign of abating. When it comes to dopamine dressing, you don’t need to invest in loads of separate items. Instead, hone in on that one big statement piece and make it sing.
Shoulder sweeping statement earrings are everywhere at the moment – think thick oversized hoops, big colourful rhinestones and huge, handmade pieces in colourful resins of ultra-saturated hues. Statement shapes in bracelets, necklaces and all types of jewellery are having a maximalism moment too. People are dressing up and having fun, and the brasher the better, we think!
Nature-Inspired Designs
In 2025, nature-inspired designs are set to make a significant impact in the jewellery world. Think pieces that incorporate elements from the natural world, such as floral motifs, leaf patterns, and animal shapes. These designs often feature intricate detailing and are crafted using a variety of materials, including precious metals, gemstones, and even organic materials like wood and shells.
Nature-inspired jewellery not only adds a touch of whimsy and elegance to your look but also serves as a reminder of the beauty and importance of the natural world. Whether you opt for a delicate flower pendant, a bold leaf-shaped ring, or earrings that resemble your favourite animal, these pieces are sure to make a statement and connect you with the great outdoors.
Wear A Style That You’re Comfortable With
While dopamine jewellery is all the rage, it’s important to stay true to who you are.
If you’re a sucker for a dainty look, then wonderful. Dainty jewellery goes with everything, and quiet, unassuming trinkets are as likely to have their moment in the sun this year as the bolder, brasher stuff we just mentioned.
This minimal and super simple style is ideal for any time of day, event and season, meaning it’s a really great all rounder for when you want to whisper softly – not shout – about your style.
Pearls
Or, if you adore pearl jewellery, timeless in style and unrivalled in sophistication, then stay true to your tastes and look. As Jackie Kennedy once said, “pearls are always appropriate”.
Pearls have a unique charm that transcends trends and seasons. They are versatile enough to be worn with both casual and formal attire, making them a staple in any jewellery collection. Whether you prefer classic pearl studs, a delicate pearl bracelet, or a statement pearl necklace, these pieces exude elegance and grace.
In 2025, pearls are being reimagined in contemporary designs, blending traditional beauty with modern aesthetics. Look out for pearls paired with unexpected materials like leather or mixed with other gemstones for a fresh take on this timeless gem. Baroque pearls, with their irregular shapes and unique character, are particularly on trend, offering a more organic and individualistic appeal.
Moreover, pearls are not just about aesthetics; they carry a wealth of symbolism and meaning. Historically, pearls have been associated with purity, wisdom, and wealth. They are believed to offer protection, attract good luck, and bring a sense of calm to the wearer. In many cultures, pearls are also thought to balance one’s karma and bring harmony to life.
Of course, it’s essential to know how to tell real pearls from imitations. Authentic pearls have a natural luster and a slightly gritty texture when rubbed against your teeth, whereas imitation pearls often feel smooth and lack the depth of shine. Real pearls also tend to have slight imperfections and variations in shape, which add to their unique beauty.
Read: 5 reasons to wear pearls this winter
Personalised Pieces
When it comes to buying jewellery – from the aforementioned accessories that spark joy to more personal pieces – it’s safe to say that it’s always been an emotional purchase. The latter represent an excellent conversation starter. Personalised pieces incorporating zodiac signs, birthstones and names and initials have always been popular and continue to be so in 2024. Expect next year to be the same.
Moreover, since the last few years have been full of uncertain times, talismans that make people feel safe, whether they’re evil eye earrings or St Christophers necklaces, have become more visible and keenly worn.
When it comes to jewellery, there are so many symbols and myths behind pearls that help bring an added sentimental value to the wearer. Pearls, for instance, are believed to offer protection, as well as attract good luck and wealth, and are well-known for their calming effects. Moreover, pearls are thought to have a way of bringing balance to your karma.
Mix Things Up
Remember the days when you had to choose whether you were going to be a gold or silver girl? Well, those demanding times of having to stick to your chosen metal, because god forbid you wore the two together, are gone. Indeed, when it comes to buying jewellery, mixed metals have been a serious trend for a while, so embrace clashing golds, silvers and bronzes with abandon!
More Is More
Dainty chain necklaces are destined to be layered up this year. Make a subtle statement with a delicate layered necklace piece, or layer long and shorter chains styles on top of each other for a fuller, more nuanced effect.
While the key to this look used to be grounded in layering very simple and delicate designs, so that one complements rather than overshadows the others, this year is focusing more on mixing and matching as many styles as possible – pairing pendants with chunky chains is particularly on trend.
It’s not just your necklaces that you should be layering this year. It’s time to get creative and experiment with different layers of jewellery, full stop. Forget the rule that less is more; that’s for squares, and we at IDEAL are circles and triangles. Think mismatched rings on all your fingers, with different metals, tones and styles abundant or earrings in multiple piercings. Shake things up and do it to excess!
It’s All About Secondhand
It’s no secret that today’s shoppers are seeking more sustainable ways of making their purchases. As such, shopping for secondhand pieces is becoming more popular as each year passes.
Buying previously loved pieces is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way to shop, make no mistake. The mining of precious metals, diamonds and gemstones has a huge impact on the environment. Pre-owned jewellery, on the other hand, reduces the demand for new jewellery, and subsequently, means there will be less of a burden on heavily mined areas.
So, why not make 2025 the year of shopping secondhand and sustainably?