Our curator and stylist in residence, Jalil Johnson, is dishing on this season’s jewelry essentials. Part two delivers everything you need to know and buy when it comes to rings and bracelets.
Rings
Rings are incredibly versatile, ranging from bold statement pieces to subtle, everyday styles, allowing you to express your personality effortlessly. They can be deeply personal—a reminder of a milestone, a symbol of connection, or simply something that makes you smile when you look at it. Rings are also highly wearable and adaptable, making them an easy choice to layer, stack, or wear alone. By starting with a ring, you’re investing in a piece that’s both timeless and uniquely yours, setting the tone for a thoughtful and meaningful jewelry collection.
1. The Everyday Ring
While not an officially recognized category, this style can be thought of as a simple, understated band—sometimes adorned with stones or featuring a meaningful etching. What truly defines it, however, is its everyday wearability. It’s the kind of ring you grow so accustomed to wearing that you feel a little incomplete without it.
The Olympia Ring Set from MM Druck is an excellent choice, offering two rings for the price of one. Stacking sets are especially appealing, as wearing two rings on one finger adds visual intrigue, and the wavy design of these rings enhances their unique charm. One ring in the set is polished and minimalist, while the other features a geometric etching that gives it character. Available in Sterling Silver or Gold Vermeil, these rings provide endless styling possibilities. Wear them together every day, split them across different fingers, or save them for special occasions—it’s all about what feels right for you!
2. Signet Ring
The Signet Ring has its origins in practicality and purpose. Historically, it was used to stamp or sign documents, with the ring’s unique markings leaving an impression on the wax or clay seals of legal documents. These rings were typically adorned with family crests or other personal symbols to verify the identity of the wearer. By the 19th century, however, signet rings evolved into more ornamental pieces, often featuring precious stones—a tradition that continues to this day. Adding a signet ring to your collection is a thoughtful choice, as it brings a personal touch to your jewelry, making it feel uniquely yours.
The Emblm Starburst Signet Ring beautifully honors the origins of this style, featuring a starburst motif that extends elegantly to the base. It offers a modern twist on tradition, allowing you to engrave a letter of your choice, making it a truly personalized and timeless piece.
3. Cocktail Ring
Cocktail Rings are timeless pieces that originated in the 1920s, when women enamored with the flapper aesthetic would accessorize their glamorous outfits with bold statement rings. These rings often featured a prominent center stone, frequently adorned with diamonds, making them a striking addition to any look. While not necessarily an everyday accessory, a cocktail ring is a must-have for your jewelry box—perfect for adding a touch of drama to an event ensemble or serving as a personal pick-me-up when you need a little boost.
This Reversible Bullseye Cocktail Ring from Monbouquette is a mixed-metal marvel, designed with a clever twist: the top of the ring flips to reveal a new look, adding versatility to its charm. True to the brand’s signature playful edge, this piece is both elegant and unexpected. To make an even bolder statement, we love the idea of wearing it on your pinkie—it’s a stylish way to stand out.
Bracelets
Bracelets are a subtle yet stylish way to start building your jewelry collection. Whether you opt for a delicate chain, a bold cuff, or a stack of bangles, bracelets add a touch of flair and personality to your wrists. They’re easy to mix and match, creating endless styling possibilities, and can serve as a gentle reminder of a moment or memory every time you glance at your hand. A bracelet is the perfect piece to round out your collection with a hint of charm and sophistication.
1. Tennis Bracelets
The Tennis Bracelet is the epitome of elegance and versatility, making it a must-consider piece for any jewelry collection. This iconic style gets its name from a 1987 US Open match when tennis player Chris Evert famously paused the game to search for her diamond bracelet after it broke mid-play. Its origins lend it an air of sophistication mixed with a touch of sport-inspired charm, and its design—a continuous row of sparkling stones—ensures it seamlessly transitions from casual daytime looks to evening wear.
The Eriness Classic Tennis Bracelet is a stunning option and is available in emeralds or pink sapphires, which offers a sleek and modern interpretation of the iconic piece. Whether you wear it solo for a minimalist look or stack it with other pieces for added flair, a tennis bracelet like this is more than just jewelry—it’s a timeless symbol of refinement, versatility, and enduring beauty.
2. Bangles
Bangles are one of the oldest forms of jewelry; historically, they symbolized wealth, status, and cultural significance, often adorned with intricate carvings or precious stones. Over time, bangles have evolved into a timeless accessory that blends cultural heritage with modern style. Their versatile design makes them a staple in jewelry collections around the world.
The Bold Bangle is a contemporary take on a classic piece. Its clean, sculptural design exudes confidence while maintaining a minimalist allure. The added feature of playing with the tradition of acrostic jewelry—using stones Blue Sapphire, Opal, Lapis, and Diamond to spell out the word “BOLD”—makes it a standout addition to any outfit. Whether you stack it with other bracelets for a layered effect or let it shine on its own, this bangle effortlessly merges boldness and refinement. Adding a bangle like this to your jewelry box allows you to connect with a rich history while making a striking style statement that’s entirely your own.
3. Cuffs
Cuffs are a bold and versatile addition to any jewelry collection, offering a sleek yet striking way to elevate your look. Unlike bangles, cuffs are designed with an open back, allowing for an adjustable fit and ease of wear. Their clean, architectural form has made them a timeless accessory that continues to make a statement today.
Paola Sighinolfi’s Ocaso Bracelet is a perfect example of the cuff’s modern appeal. Featuring a fluid, sculptural design inspired by natural forms, this piece balances boldness and elegance. The bracelet’s smooth curves and open silhouette make it an effortless and chic addition to any outfit, whether styled as a standalone statement or paired with other pieces for a layered look. A cuff like this is more than just jewelry—it’s a reflection of power, grace, and timeless look.
