10 Classic Jewelry Essentials Every Wardrobe Needs (2024)

There are certain classic jewelry pieces that should live in every jewelry box in order to create the perfect styling environment. These essential styles serve a similar purpose to the staples in your capsule wardrobe—the best of the basics that can be mixed and matched to polish off any outfit. A chef might refer to these as the black peppers and paprikas of the world; the spices that permanently reside in the kitchen to season a wide array of dishes.

Vogue’s Must-Have Classic Jewelry Edit:

• The Perfect Studs: David Yurman Crossover Stud Earrings, $2,100
• The Classic Hoops: Jennifer Fisher Samira 10K Gold-Plated Huggies, $250
• The Goes With Everything Bangle: Monica Vinader Nura Reef Bangle, $395
• The Heirloom Pendant: Missoma Lucy Williams Roman Arc Coin Pendant Necklace, $193
• The Gold Chain: Foundrae Sister Hook 18K Gold Necklace, $3,965
• The Pretty Pearls: Mejuri Organic Pearl Hoops, $78
• The Signet Ring: Pascale Monvoisin Poppy 9K Gold Topaz Signet Ring, $1,408
• The Stacked Ring: By Pariah Luminous Ring Stack, $3,125
• The Colorful Jewel: Mateo 14K Citrine Studs, $450
• The Sleek Watch: Longines Flagship Watch, $2,075

With the right pieces and jewelry brands on your radar, one can cook up a top-notch look for any occasion. Heading out on a grocery run? Throw on your gold hoops and matching chain necklace. Out to dinner for a special celebration? You’re perfectly prepared with your stash of pearls. These pieces serve as the foundation, leaving room to add your own personal flare with more whimsical touches.

Below, our guide to the 10 pieces of classic, timeless jewelry that will never lead you astray.

Stud Earrings

Studs provide a tasteful bit of sparkle that goes with everything. They can be worn for any occasion, with many of us even sleeping and showering in them (not that either is recommended, but if you’re going to do so, studs are the way to go).

Hoop Earrings

For many of us, a good pair of hoops acts as a comfort piece that we can rely on to clean up even the most looks. You can throw them on with a matching sweatsuit and sneakers to elevate your errands ’fit, or pair a diamond huggie with an evening floral dress for an elegant nighttime look.

Bangle Bracelet

The soft jingle of a bangle stack is a truly delightful sound. But one doesn’t particularly have to stack—a single one styled over a knit sleeve or with a breezy sundress serves a classic jewelry look that we can certainly get behind.

Pendant Necklace

Pendant necklaces are a great addition to any outfit and can be worn as a single piece or layered. Make it personal by adding your initials or birthstone.

Chain Necklace

A chain necklace should be a staple jewelry piece in everyone’s wardrobe. Whether you prefer gold or silver; curb or paperclip; long or short—or all of the above–they’re a great addition to everyday outfits but also perfect for power dressing.

Pearls

Pearls have taken on a new life recently. Whereas these timeless jewelry pieces were traditionally styled with more elegant, feminine looks, people now pair them with sporty and casual gear to run to the grocery store.

Signet Ring

Signet rings were traditionally adorned with a crest and used to stamp or seal documents. However, people today wear them simply for fashion, and many brands now also offer engraving services for personalization, making them a great gift for anyone on your list.

Stacking Ring

There is a subtle art to stacking. Some like to mix metals or styles and widths, while others prefer to layer a bunch of similar fashion rings. Or you can avoid the math altogether and get the perfect pre-stacked set.

Colorful Stone

While metals are contemporary and timeless jewelry pieces, colored stones are as well. Make it meaningful by choosing your birthstone or a stone with special properties.

Watch

An everyday watch is a classic, functional piece that everyone can find use in. Although we tend to rely on our electronic devices to tell time these days, the traditional watch remains an exquisite accessory that adds sophistication to any look.