Falling for Autumn
The summer sun has set, and the leaves are beginning to change color. You've swapped from iced lattes to hot ones, pulled out your chunky knits, and started your annual re-watch of Gilmore Girls. It's obvious you're ready for fall, but is your jewelry? As the seasons shift, your wardrobe isn't the only thing that deserves a refresh. The change from warm, carefree summer days to crisp fall air and chilly winter nights can affect how your jewelry looks, feels, and even wears. With a bit of care and some creative styling, you can make sure your charms and favorite pieces transition seamlessly into the cooler months ahead.
Give Your Jewelry a Fresh Start
Summer can leave its mark on more than just your skin. We hope you were a good little jewelry lover and didn't swim in your pieces (be honest!), but even if you didn't, your pieces are probably due for a little TLC. Sunscreen, sweat, saltwater, and even your favorite perfume can build up on jewelry, leaving charms looking a little dull. Before layering on your favorites this fall, take time to clean each piece. If you're wondering how to clean your jewelry at home, grab a small dish of warm water, gentle dish soap, and a soft brush (one of your clean makeup brushes will do the trick) to bring back their shine. Your pieces with enamel and more fragile stones, such as opal and turquoise, should skip the bath—wipe them down with a soft, clean cloth instead.
Embrace Layering
The temperatures are dropping, making it the perfect time to layer your pieces. If the hot summer weather meant you kept your jewelry looks on the minimal side this summer (we don't blame you, we did the same), now it's time to lean into maximalism. Stack bracelets, mix chain lengths, and add to your charm jumble. The cozy textures of fall outfits pair beautifully with bold jewelry styling, so don't be afraid to pile it on.
Protect Your Knits
As much as we love chunky sweaters and delicate cashmere, they don't always play nicely with all types of jewelry. Prongs, pointed charms, or sharp edges can catch on fine knits, pulling threads before you even notice. When wearing your pieces with sweaters or scarves, take a second to check how they sit against the fabric. Choosing smoother chains and charms for delicate knits will keep both your jewelry and your wardrobe looking their best.
Don't Get Lost in the Layers
As we've noted, fall and winter wardrobes mean more layers. While this is great for the weather, it can sometimes hide your favorite jewelry. Instead of letting your pieces disappear, we encourage you to find creative ways to wear them. Try styling bracelets over sweater sleeves, layering long necklaces so they peek out from under jackets, or using a pin brooch to hang charms on your coat. Playing with placement helps your jewelry stand out, even in the coziest outfits.
Weather-Proof Your Pieces
Cold winds, snow, and icy rain can be harsh on certain gemstones. Delicate stones, such as opals and pearls, are especially sensitive to sudden temperature changes and excessive moisture. If you're heading into extreme weather, tuck these pieces safely away under your layers or save them for indoor wear. A little extra care now helps ensure your jewelry stays as timeless and beautiful as the day you first wore it.
Fall-Ready Jewels
The change of seasons is the perfect reminder to give your jewelry some love. With a good clean, thoughtful styling, and some seasonal awareness, your favorite pieces will shine just as brightly in the colder months as they did under the summer sun.