To Stay Fashionable in 2026, Say Goodbye to These 6 Jewellery Trends (and Embrace These 6)

      One undeniable aspect of fashion is that what is deemed "trendy" can shift rapidly, yet everything eventually makes a return to style. This is particularly evident when observing what is considered outdated jewellery trends, often found among the heirlooms in our grandmothers' jewellery boxes that have yet to see the light of day again. Frequently, the top jewellery trend of the season is resurrected from the depths of storage—take, for example, the resurgence of beaded jewellery. Jewellery trends persist in a rinse-and-repeat cycle, but that doesn't diminish their excitement compared to other trends! Unlike other accessories, jewellery is among the few purchases that can breathe new life into our everyday outfits, even if the styles are not entirely novel. Essentially, jewellery is undoubtedly a smart long-term investment. However, we acknowledge it can be challenging to discern which styles are currently worthwhile to acquire, especially considering jewellery's cyclical nature. Fortunately, this is where our editorial team proves invaluable. We invest more time than we’d like to admit monitoring which brands are trending, seeking out the best jewellery fashions, and assessing which trends might be outdated. It's only fitting that we channel our focus to assist in identifying the jewellery trends fashionable individuals will be wearing in the coming year. After extensive hours of scrolling through social media, reviewing recent runway shows, and exploring new arrivals, we've put together a list of six jewellery trends to embrace in 2026 and six to set aside for now. Make some space in your jewellery box (or sift through your storage) because one of these trends is bound to make you feel like you've entered a new era.

      **6 Jewellery Trends to Embrace in 2026:**

      1. **Set Aside: Coquette-Coded; Embrace: Gothic Romance**

      Remember when coquette-coded items were all the rage? It might be time to bid farewell to those bow-adorned pieces. Influences from classic films like Nosferatu and Frankenstein, along with runway shows from Saint Laurent and Valentino, indicate a cultural shift from "softer" aesthetics to a gothic revival. Drawing from the late 19th century, fashion directors are incorporating the hallmark visual elements of brooding romanticism—think dark color schemes, elaborate fabrics, and extravagant jewellery. The latter has notably exemplified this style, with designers showcasing gemstone-encrusted cross earrings or ornate heart pendants reminiscent of Wuthering Heights. Given the ongoing popularity of that novel, it's hardly surprising that this jewellery trend is captivating the fashion crowd as well. Everyone adores the chance to embody the protagonists of a classic love tale, and gothic-inspired jewellery offers that opportunity.

      2. **Set Aside: Nature Motifs; Embrace: Art Deco Motifs**

      While some recent jewellery trends take cues from various eras, others are influenced by distinct art movements. The impact of artistic movements on fashion designers is unmistakable—just look at the surrealist-inspired shoes from Loewe’s S/S 26 show or the teardrop earrings seen in Bottega Veneta's F/W 22 collection. A recent example of this influence is the surge of Art Deco-inspired jewellery on the runways. Unlike Art Nouveau, which drew from nature, Art Deco is characterized by its inspiration from the architecture, art, and fashion trends of the 1920s. This revival of Art Deco is visible in both luxury and indie brand collections, featuring sharp geometric shapes, bold color palettes, and futuristic designs that echo the architectural styles of the Jazz Age.

      3. **Set Aside: Crystals; Embrace: Coloured Gemstones**

      As winter approaches, certain trends can be expected to return like the brisk wind—one of which is crystal jewellery. While we wouldn't dissuade anyone from getting festive, those who may not feel in the holiday spirit have a stylish alternative: moody gemstones. Wearing darker-hued gemstones—like onyx, tiger's eye, jasper, and malachite—offers a chic way to navigate the emotional landscape of the season. Designers from Chloé to Heaven Mayhem have incorporated these alt-gems into their collections, transforming classic styles into something more reflective of the moodiness we often feel during this time of year.

      4. **Set Aside: Dainty Pendants; Embrace: Extra-Long Tassels**

      Unfortunately, the era of dainty pendants is behind us. If you're doubtful, a quick scroll through social media will confirm that smaller pendants are now stored away. What's the alternative to fill that space in your jewellery box? Enter the extra-long tassels. Seen in various forms, including tasseled earrings and lariat necklaces, this trend has infiltrated the fashion scene, thanks largely to indie brands like Le Sundial and Ayllón, whose signature tassel necklaces took off last summer. Recently, major designers like Fendi, Michael Kors, and Chanel have showcased tasselled pieces, ensuring that you'll forget all about dainty pendants,