Jewellery Instantly Elevates An Outfit—10 Pieces That Are Forever Classics

If accessories maketh the outfit, then classic jewellery should be regarded as the foundation of any effective ensemble. In recent years, the costume market has really upped its game, with more affordable fashion jewellery brands now on hand to quench our sparkle thirst than ever before. There's no denying, however, that some trends have a relatively short shelf-life (though they tend to come back around, so do hold onto any seasonal investments you make)—which is why investing in classic jewellery pieces makes sense.

To help you curate the ultimate jewellery capsule that'll last you a lifetime, we've whittled down the key pieces every woman should have in her collection by the time she's 30. From the earrings that make any top look glossy to the necklace you'll wear year after year, keep scrolling to see our pick of the 10 classic jewellery items you should endeavour to own.

1. Hoop Earrings

Classic jewellery: @lucywilliams02 wears gold hoops

(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Style Notes: No earring goes with so much as the hoop earring. Opt for a plain style in your go-to metal hue for maximum wear potential.

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2. Gold Chain

classic jewellery: gold chain necklace

(Image credit: @thevisuelofgrace)

Style Notes: Few combinations look quite as effortless as a white cotton shirt worn unbuttoned at the collar with a gold chain necklace peeking through. Invest in one and we guarantee you'll wear it every day for the foreseeable.

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3. Simple Bangle

Classic jewellery: @monikh wears a gold bangle

(Image credit: @monikh)

Style Notes: If an outfit is lacking a certain je ne sais quoi, the solution is almost always a simple bangle or two. Layer them over the cuffs of your tops to show them off.

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4. Diamond Studs

Classic jewellery: @emmahoareau wears diamond studs

(Image credit: @emmahoareau)

Style Notes: Jewellery doesn't come more decadent than diamonds but, in stud earring form, they'll fast become a daily staple.

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5. Cocktail Ring

Classic jewellery: @chiarasatelier wears a cocktail ring

(Image credit: @chiarasatelier)

Style Notes: You'll likely have a selection of rings you wear day in, day out. However, for special occasions, every woman should have a selection of chic cocktail rings at her disposal, for they have the power to overhaul any outfit. Yes, even your favourite little black dress.

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6. Leather-Strap Watch

Classic jewellery: @tylynnnguyen wears a leather-strap watch

(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Style Notes: If you're a watch wearer, then you'll likely agree the style you get the most wear out of is undoubtedly of the leather-strap variety. Every outfit commands a sophisticated air with one of these on your wrist.

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7. Charm Bracelet

Classic jewellery: @daniellejinadu wears a charm bracelet

(Image credit: @daniellejinadu)

Style Notes: If you thought charm bracelets were reserved for your teens, think again. Look for sleek designs and thick loops that'll make a statement on their own. Then, of course, you can add charms if you please, making it an incredibly versatile piece of arm candy.

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8. Stacking Rings

Classic jewellery: @leatngu wears stacking rings

(Image credit: @leatngu)

Style Notes: Bold and minimal outfits alike will benefit from the company of a stacked ring set. Look for bands in a variety of thicknesses and with dainty stone detailing.

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9. Something Pearly

Classic jewellery: @sasha_mei wears pearl earrings

(Image credit: @sasha_mei)

Style Notes: Be it a pair of classic drop earrings or a more directional necklace, pearls in any which way are a staple in any grown-up's jewellery wrap. Trust us, invest now and you'll wear them for the rest of your life.

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10. Bracelet-Strap Watch

Classic jewellery: @femmeblk wears a chain watch

(Image credit: @femmeblk)

Style Notes: Any watch aficionado will already have a metal, bracelet-strap watch which they can don after dark. However, in recent years, they've become an everyday must for many.

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This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger isBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her ownBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior toBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.