How to Build a Jewellery Capsule Wardrobe

Capsule wardrobes get all the hype for making getting dressed easy, but what about jewellery? If you’ve ever spent more time detangling necklaces than actually wearing them, you already know the struggle.

Enter the jewellery capsule wardrobe: a curated collection of timeless pieces that go with everything, so you’re never stuck wondering if your earrings match your look. Think of it as the antidote to a tangled mess of impulse buys and questionable trends (like those awful feather earrings everyone wore back in 2012).

Much like a capsule wardrobe for clothes, having a jewellery capsule means fewer but better pieces. It simplifies getting dressed, makes accessorising easy, and—bonus—it’s a more sustainable way to shop. No more clutter, no more regretful purchases, just a collection of favourites that always work.

Let’s get into it.

What is a Jewellery Capsule Wardrobe?

A jewellery capsule wardrobe is a fuss-free, no-nonsense approach to accessorising. Instead of rummaging through drawers full of cheap costume jewellery, you have a curated collection of high-quality staples that mix, match, and go with everything—so you spend less time deciding what to wear and more time enjoying your outfits.

But it’s not just about looking good. A jewellery capsule helps you make smarter style choices, shop with intention, and keep things sustainable. No more piles of impulse buys that seemed like a good idea at the time, just a handful of timeless favourites you actually wear. Fewer but better pieces that feel like you. (And yes, that means finally saying goodbye to those neon plastic hoops haunting your jewellery box.)

How many pieces should a jewellery capsule have?

There’s no magic number, but a solid jewellery capsule typically includes around 5 to 15 pieces. Enough to cover all occasions without turning into a cluttered mess. Think of it like a jewellery box that actually makes sense: not so empty that you’re missing essentials, not so overstuffed that you can’t find your favourite pieces.

How to Make a Jewellery Capsule

Building a jewellery capsule isn’t about reducing your collection to a couple of sad, lonely pieces. It’s about curating jewellery that actually works for you; pieces that match your style, fit your daily routine, and make getting dressed easy.

When every piece goes with everything, accessorising stops being a frantic, last-minute scramble for something that sort of works. No more sifting through tangled chains or settling for “good enough” just a collection of favourites that always look great. Here’s how to build it.

Step 1: Define Your Personal Style

Before you start ruthlessly decluttering your jewellery box, take a minute to figure out what you actually like—and what actually works for your life. A well-curated jewellery capsule should suit your day-to-day activities and seamlessly integrate into any outfit, from work to weekends.

Are you a gold or silver person? Do you prefer delicate minimalist jewellery or bold, statement pieces? What do you wear daily without even thinking about it? These are the clues to building a jewellery collection that works for you.

If your jewellery box is full of things you thought you’d wear but never do, it’s time to admit defeat and move on. Sentimental pieces get a pass, of course, but that owl necklace from 2010? Probably not making a comeback.

Step 2: Choose Your Essentials

A solid jewellery capsule covers all bases without going overboard. Here’s what you need:

• Everyday Staples (3-5 pieces): The reliable go-tos—a simple chain, a pair of classic studs, a dainty bracelet, and that one ring you always wear. Effortless, versatile, and always in style.
• Statement Pieces (1-3 pieces): Something bold enough to turn heads—reticulated fish pendants, tarot card necklaces, skull rings. The weirder, the better.
• Signature Jewellery (1-2 pieces): These are the pieces you can’t leave the house without. They’re not just accessories, they’re part of you.
• Special Occasion Jewellery (1-3 pieces): For the moments when everyday jewellery won’t cut it—vintage pearls, a diamond necklace, or something that makes you feel fancy.
• Seasonal or Trendy Pieces (1-3 pieces): Just a little room for fun—something playful to keep things fresh without cluttering up your collection.

Step 3: Invest in Quality

Fast-fashion jewellery is fun—until it turns your fingers green, falls apart when you're wearing it, or mysteriously vanishes into the void that also eats your bobby pins. Instead of a dozen throwaway pieces, build a jewellery capsule with pieces that actually last.

• Material matters: Gold-filled and sterling silver beat gold-plated every time. If it flakes off in a week, it’s not worth your time (or money).
• Recycled metals: Just as beautiful, but without the environmental guilt. Who knew sustainability could look so good?
• Ethical sourcing: Because no one wants their jewellery to come with a shady backstory. Diamonds might be forever, but bad karma sticks around too.

Quality craftsmanship isn’t just about looking good, it’s about avoiding the heartbreak of a favourite ring snapping in half or a necklace clasp giving up on life. If it can’t survive more than one wear, it has no place in your jewellery capsule.

Step 4: Prioritise Versatility

A great jewellery capsule is all about versatility—pieces that mix, match, and layer together, no matter the occasion. A dainty chain can be worn alone or stacked. Studs can be swapped out for hoops when you want a little more drama. Rings can be stacked or worn solo. The idea is to get maximum wear with minimum effort.

You don’t need a hundred different pieces to cover all bases, you just need the right ones. The kind of jewellery that works just as well with jeans and a t-shirt as it does with a cocktail dress. The ones that make accessorising easy, so you can spend less time deciding and more time looking great.

Step 5: Experiment with Style

A jewellery capsule isn’t a rigid set of rules, it's supposed to be fun. Mix things up, try out new combinations, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Your style isn’t static, and your jewellery collection shouldn’t be either. Let it evolve with you. Maybe you’ll fall for mixed metals, or realise that an enamel charm is your new signature piece. The key is to keep things fresh, fun, and—most importantly—you.

Step 6: Find Your Balance

Jewellery should work with your outfit, not fight for attention like a bangle that jingles every time you move. It’s all about proportions—getting that sweet spot between just enough and way too much.

If your wardrobe leans minimalist (think sleek silhouettes and clean lines), delicate jewellery is your best friend. A simple chain, understated studs, maybe a few stacking rings. It all just works. But if you’re the type to embrace bold prints, clashing colours, and dopamine dressing, go all in. Chunky chains, oversized hoops, rings stacked high. Subtlety is not the goal here.

It’s less about playing by the rules and more about knowing when to keep it low-key and when to let your jewellery do the talking.

Step 7: Care for Your Jewellery Properly

What’s the point in curating a perfect jewellery collection if you’re just going to let it tarnish in a heap on your dresser? You wouldn’t let a stain ruin your favourite outfit, so don’t let your precious pieces get neglected either. Jewellery needs proper care to keep it looking good. Here's a few basic rules to follow:

• Handle with care: Treat your pieces like the treasures they are. Be gentle!
• Remove before activities: Taking a dip in the pool or hitting the gym? Leave your jewellery at home to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
• Avoid chemicals and cosmetics: Perfume, lotions, and cleaning products are not your jewellery’s friends. Keep them away to preserve their shine.
• Keep out of direct sunlight: Just like us, your jewellery needs a little shade. Prolonged sun exposure can cause fading or tarnishing.
• Don’t wear in water: Water, especially saltwater and chlorine, can do a real number on your jewellery. So, take it off before you jump in.
• Store properly: Tangles and scratches are the worst. Keep each piece stored separately to avoid damage.
• Clean regularly: A quick clean goes a long way. Keep your jewellery looking fresh by giving it a regular polish.

For more tips on how to keep your jewellery looking its best, check out our full care guide.

Step 7: Build Slowly and Intentionally

A jewellery capsule isn’t something you throw together in a weekend. It’s a slow burn, like finding the perfect vintage jacket or the right red lipstick. It’s about being intentional: no impulse buys, no “but it was on sale” regrets, and definitely no jumping on trends that don’t feel like you.

Take your time. Hunt for second-hand treasures, invest in quality over quantity, and support independent jewellers. The goal is to create a collection of pieces you actually love, not just stuff you've rushed out to buy. And remember, curating is half the fun.

Build Your Perfect Jewellery Capsule with Oh My Clumsy Heart

Ready to start building your jewellery capsule? At Oh My Clumsy Heart, we’ve made it easier than ever to get started with our Bundle & Save offer.

Save 10% when you choose 3 pieces or 25% when you pick 6—perfect for curating a collection that suits your style, keeps your wardrobe fresh, and won’t leave you questioning your jewellery choices.