There’s something clarifying about asking yourself what you’d keep if you had to start over.
Not what photographs well.
Not what’s trending.
Not what just dropped.
But what you actually reach for.
If I opened my jewelry drawers tomorrow and could only keep five pieces — the ones that work with my real life: school pickup, meetings, church, dinner, travel, tired days, good days — these are the ones I’d save.
Because the older I get, the less interested I am in having more just to have more. I want everyday jewelry that goes with everything. Pieces that feel like me. Pieces I don’t have to think about.
Wearability matters more than we admit.
Comfort matters most to me.
Versatility matters.
If you’re trying to build a jewelry collection that actually lasts, this is where I’d start.
Here are the five I’d keep and why.
1. The Everyday Anchor
Every great jewelry collection needs a base layer.
I’d start with my “second skin” — the necklace I wear all day, every day. For me, that’s something dainty like the Eden. It has personal meaning with the crosses and serves as a quiet reminder of my faith throughout the day.
Why it works as an everyday necklace:
- The shorter length makes it easy to keep on at all times.
- It layers effortlessly with other pieces.
- It’s subtle enough to tuck away when I want to build a bigger statement stack.
- It makes even workout clothes feel intentional.
If you’re building a capsule jewelry collection, start with something you never have to take off.
2. The Statement That Still Feels Easy
You need one standout piece that still feels wearable.
For me, that’s turquoise. Turquoise jewelry works in every season and crosses every style. Rodeo? Check. Beach day? Check. Dress up a t-shirt? Check.
My current favorites are Gia, Flatlands, Peony, and Lyra. Adding a charm and charm loop is an easy way to update the look without replacing the whole piece.
One bold bracelet or necklace can completely change basics.
White tee + jeans? Elevated instantly.
This is where stacking bracelets becomes fun instead of overwhelming — one anchor piece, then build around it.
3. The Layering Chain
If you want to master layering necklaces, you need a solid chain.
Choosing just one is hard, but my top three are Molly, Fancy, and Simone.
- Molly comes in multiple lengths, and I’ve been loving a longer 24-inch version layered with charms.
- Simone makes a statement from a t-shirt to a cocktail dress.
- A good chain works with crew necks, v-necks, button-downs — everything.
When people ask how to layer necklaces without it looking chaotic, the answer is almost always: start with a great chain.
It’s the backbone of your stack.
4. The Earrings That Save Every Outfit
If I had to narrow it down, I’d always keep a pair of everyday earrings.
I’m a huggie girl to the end. My test for the perfect earring? I need to be able to sleep in it and wear my AirPods without even noticing it’s there.
Right now, I love the Cherie drop earrings, the Allstar huggie, and the Ava hoop has been a go-to for years.
Why earrings are essential:
- They’re the easiest gift (no sizing needed).
- They instantly polish any outfit.
- They require zero overthinking.
If you’re building a versatile jewelry wardrobe, a great pair of earrings does more than you think.
5. The “Fun” Piece
Not everything has to be practical.
I’ll always choose one bright, confidence-inducing piece. For me, that’s a bold 10mm Zo in Kelly Pink or Lemon.
Colorful jewelry is an instant dopamine hit. It’s the easiest way to make your stack feel fresh.
A bright bracelet in the summer with workout clothes? Elite.
Confidence doesn’t have to be complicated.
The goal isn’t to own more jewelry.
It’s to own the right jewelry.
If you’re building your collection, choose pieces you’d keep if you had to narrow it down — the ones that mix well, layer easily, and fit your real life.
That’s how you create a jewelry collection that grows with you, not one that overwhelms you.
--- Allie