In 2024, more is more–at least when it comes to rings. In this year of maximalist fashion, it makes sense that ring stacking is a top jewelry trend. Layering up on stackable rings is a simple way to create an on trend maximalist look. It’s also a great way to add more personality to your outfit, and express yourself with your style.
If you’re new to ring stacking, it can feel daunting at first. It’s not always easy to create a combination you love. But we’re here to guide you with expert ring layering advice. We’ll start with tips on how to start ring stacking, then get into tips that will help you fine tune your layered look.
Get Inspired
The first step toward creating your perfect ring stack is deciding what you’re going for. If you’re not sure what you want to create, spend some time looking for jewelry inspiration online. Whenever you see something you like, save the image. Keep your images in one place, like in a folder on your phone’s camera roll or to a Pinterest board.
Once you’ve collected your inspiration images, see if the images you saved have anything in common. Did you save a bunch of chunky ring stacks or are your favorites more delicate? Do most of your images feature one precious metal or is there a mix? Did you save seamless stacks that fit together perfectly or stacks with space in between rings? Are the rings mostly plain metal bands, diamond rings, or gemstone designs? Do the stacks you saved feature straight bands, curved bands, or a variety of band styles?
When you have a feel for the kinds of ring stacks you like (and the types of rings used in those stacks), it will be much easier to start creating combinations you like. You’ll also be able to see if the rings you already have in your jewelry box will work for the stacks you want to create or if you may want to hunt for some new additions.
To Match or Not to Match
A key element of any ring stack is how much the individual rings match. There’s no right or wrong level of matching–this is simply a matter of personal preference. But to create combinations you like, you’ll need to figure out where your preference lies.
Do you like ring stacks that match almost exactly or ring stacks with a very eclectic look? Or perhaps something in between?
Whatever you prefer, you can create it by choosing rings with either more or fewer design details in common. Rings that share most of the same design elements will match closely, while rings that share few design elements will look more eclectic.
Not sure which design details to look for? Here are some elements to consider matching (or not matching):
- Metal color
- Gemstone color
- Gemstone shape
- Gemstone faceting
- Metal detailing or finish
- Band width
- Band shape
- Ring height
- Overall style (modern, vintage-inspired, etc.)
Build Around a Centerpiece
Once you’re more experienced with jewelry layering, you may enjoy having multiple statement pieces in your ring stacks. However, if you’re newer to layering, you may find it easier to create looks you like if your stacks have a single main focal point.
It’s easier to create a combination that looks cohesive when one ring is the star of the show This gives the eye a place to look right away, which helps you avoid a cluttered or chaotic feeling.
Start by choosing one statement ring to serve as your centerpiece. It could be a trendy chunky ring, your engagement ring, a sparkly eternity band, or any other favorite ring from your collection. Choose your ring, then accent it with more understated or dainty rings. Play around with different combinations of simple bands and delicate rings until you find a balance you like.
You can also choose to have a main focus finger as your centerpiece. Try adorning your focus finger with a bold set of stacked rings, then accenting other fingers with delicate or plain bands.
Odd Over Even
If you’re struggling to create a ring stack you like, you may want to count the number of rings in your stack. People often prefer the look of an odd number of pieces in jewelry stacks because the eye perceives groups of odd numbers as more natural. Try playing around with odds versus evens and see if that affects how you feel about your combinations.
Mix Metals Strategically
If you like the look of mixed metal stacks but are struggling to create one you love, consider your balance of metals. Mixed metal combinations tend to look more intentional if they have a main metal and an accent metal. Picture a simple stack with two yellow gold bands and a single delicate sterling silver band. If you feel like your mixed metal stacks aren’t cohesive enough, pick a main metal, then use accent rings in a secondary metal.
Try Prebuilt Ring Stacks
A quick way to get a layered ring look is with prebuilt ring stacks. These are single ring designs that look like multiple complementary rings. These can give you a layered look in an instant or serve as a starting point for an intricate ring stack.
Experiment
Jewelry layering is all about expressing yourself and exploring your personal style, so don’t be afraid to experiment when you’re stacking rings. Have fun, get creative, and enjoy the process of creating your perfect stack.
Need a new ring or two to spice up your layered looks? Shop our full selection of stackable rings.
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