Layering jewellery and accessories has always been a stylish way to add depth and a certain gravitas to an outfit. When done right and curated by someone who knows how to merge distinctive styles, layering accessories can be a sure way to express your personal tastes artistically.
While women’s jewellery has traditionally been in the front seat, the modern man is now embracing the endless possibilities and variety that layering accessories presents.
Let’s explore what the experts have to say about the many ways layering can further enhance style and give the wearer freedom to explore their stylistic identity.
The Focal Point
Layering primarily balances elements, forms and textures to create depth. You can begin constructing by having a starting point, a key piece–a bracelet, pendant, ring or necklace–that draws attention and acts as an anchor.
Thomas Sabo, a leading figure in men’s jewellery, says, “Your focal pieces should say something about you–whether it’s a family heirloom, something you’ve bought on your travels, or just a piece you’ve fallen in love with. The rest of your jewellery should complement it, not overshadow it.”
The Balance of Size & Lengths
As previously mentioned above, balance is a primary part of layering. Adorning yourself in pieces that too closely resemble one another can ruin your composition by taking away dimension and clarity.
With men’s jewellery favouring bold and masculine designs, layering a thick, short chain with a fine, longer one can emphasise the masculine quality of one chain with the subtleness of the other. Create distinctive parallels with sizes and lengths.
“Layering necklaces of different lengths is a great way to create dimension without overwhelming the eye,” says fashion journalist Luke Day. “It allows each piece to shine individually, yet come together as a cohesive whole.”
The Art of Texture
Texture is dimension. It creates contrast with juxtaposition and gives unlimited opportunity to those looking to truly express the bandwidth of their personality through layering. A polished gold chain with a tarnished, aged pendant can make both pieces feel distinct. Whereas one appears new, the other contrasts with well-worn age.
A contemporary designer of men’s and women’s jewellery, Nadine Ghosn, expertly points out: “Texture is often overlooked but plays a key role in making a layered look feel complete. Combining smooth, polished surfaces with rugged, hammered finishes or matte metals adds a dynamic element to your style.”
The Personal Touch
A narrative that can be told through the layering of your jewellery is equally as important as creating balance. Each piece, chosen and selected, should hold within its glint, tarnish or polish your personality. Whether it’s a signet ring you picked up on your travels, a gifted necklace with a sentimental pendant, or a simple secondhand bracelet with its own hidden story, your layering choices should be rooted in personality.
Alex Orso, a men’s jewellery brand known for its understated designs, highlights the importance of wearing what you love: “Jewellery is incredibly personal. Don’t feel pressured to follow trends. The best pieces are those that resonate with you on a deeper level. That’s when you’ll feel most confident wearing them.”
The Ocassion & Outfit
When layering your jewellery, it’s important to consider the occasion and your outfit. Wearing too much jewellery might not be well received in a professional or formal environment, but it may help achieve a more elevated streetwear look.
“Jewellery layering is a great way to express personality, but context is everything,” says men’s fashion expert and stylist Andrew Weitz. “Keep it subtle for work environments–focus on a great watch or a couple of thin bracelets. Save heavier stacking for more relaxed environments.”
The Layer of Moderation
Style should be dynamic, not overwhelming. Don’t go overboard and turn yourself into a rattling mess of gold and silver. Keep it chic. Keep it stylish. The key and core principle of layering is to find opportunities to create depth without sacrificing balance. Sometimes, less is more.
Fashion editor Jim Moore says, “More isn’t always better.” And we fully agree with him. He continues to say, “It’s about finding that sweet spot where each piece has its moment, but the overall look stil feels cohesive and put together.”
To Wrap Things Up
Layering men’s jewellery can offer trendsetters and jewellery collectors endless ways to enhance and refine their personal style. Finding that sweet spot–with textures, sizes, metals and more–can create unique combinations with contemporary and traditional pieces.
As Shaun Leane concisely puts it: “Jewellery is about self-expression. It’s about finding those pieces that speak to you, layering them in a way that feels right, and owning your style with confidence.”