One Of 2026's Biggest Jewelry Trends Reverses An Outdated Styling 'Rule'

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Once upon a time, it was considered a sartorial sin to go out with mismatched jewelry. Fie upon anyone who dared pair a gold necklace with silver earrings, or stack bracelets in two different metal hues. But in 2026, this rule is officially out the window — in fact, getting too matchy-matchy with your jewelry may be aging you. Instead, current fads are all about achieving easy, fashion-forward whimsy by mixing metals like gold, silver, rose gold, or even platinum. It's a look that works for any age group, from 18 to 80. Needless to say, it has earned a spot among our 2026 jewelry trends perfect for older women.

But what makes this look so universally flattering? As fashion expert Coco Schiffer told WhoWhatWear in July 2026, "I love mixed metals because it feels like the easiest way to look intentional without trying too hard. ... I always mix gold and silver in my stack, and I like it when it feels a little unplanned, like everything just works together naturally." Easy for her to say. For those of us who aren't fashion experts, what's the best way to approach mixed-metal styling? Turns out, there are a few simple tricks to mastering this trend, from adding in tiny pops of contrasting metallics to building your look around mixed-metal statement pieces.

If you're mixing your metals for the first time, you might not be sure where to start. How much is too much? When do mixed metals go from tastefully eclectic to tacky chaos? "First of all, relax. You're about to play," reassures jewelry designer Jenny Bird, speaking to WhoWhatWear in July 2026. Because you want to curate a jewelry aesthetic that feels authentic to you, she advises that there's a natural place to begin: with your favorites. "Start by putting on the pieces of jewelry you enjoy wearing daily. Add in the other tone from there. If your go-to pieces are heavier in gold, sprinkle in some silver. If you're the opposite, sprinkle in some gold."

You can also take a shortcut by incorporating any jewelry that already features more than one metal in the design. "You may have a piece that kicks off the two-toning for you. For a lot of people, that's a two-tone watch you already own and wear often," says Bird. "If you don't have a piece that's two-tone, that's a great piece to buy. ... Such a thing instantly gives you permission to two-tone more from there."

For instance, one glamorous and versatile option you might consider is this $350 Jennifer Fisher mixed-metal bangle set, which includes three silver and four gold bangles that can be worn together or separately. Or, for something that's a little more budget-friendly without sacrificing quality, you could start with the Signature Mixed Chain Necklace from Coach, which is only $125 on Amazon. Duo-tone pieces like these open the door to easy metal mixing throughout the rest of your jewelry look, whether you're keeping things light or layering on lots of luxurious drip.

Right now, the rule-breaking mixed metal trend is particularly timely, aligning with the 2026 resurgence of layered jewelry looks. After all, when mixing and matching is the rule of the day, you don't want to limit yourself to only one metal tone. Instead, take advantage of this mixed-metal moment to create nuanced and textured jewelry stacks, from piled necklaces and bangles upon bangles to layered rings and earrings in every shade. The key is intentionality: Instead of throwing pieces on willy-nilly, which can obscure or overwhelm your favorite items, try to put them together in a way that looks organic and complementary.

"The best layered jewelry always looks slightly accidental and not overly styled," fashion designer and entrepreneur Fisayo Longe told Marie Claire in June 2026. Like Jenny Bird, Longe recommends beginning with one foundational item to inspire the rest of your mixed-metal look. "Usually there's one dominant piece, whether that's a statement necklace or chunky bangle, then build everything else around it. Play with different metals, lengths, gems, shapes, and textures. Layering works best when there's contrast."

Just keep negative space in mind, which will help give your jewelry breathing room and help each piece shine. For instance, layer necklaces at different lengths so that there's a hint of skin peeking out between each chain. Or confine your bangle stacks to one arm, leaving the other bare to provide clean juxtaposition. Ultimately, the final effect should feel breezy and effortless, not weighty and awkward. But if you're still feeling unsure, just check out Glam's ultimate guide to pulling off a mixed metal look for more hot tips.