How to Layer & Style Intentional Jewelry
When I first started creating jewelry 25 years ago, I wanted pieces that were both beautiful AND meaningful—jewelry that could keep up with my active lifestyle while helping me focus on my intentions. Now, as my customers build their collections, I get asked all the time: "How do I wear multiple pieces together?"
The truth is, layering intentional jewelry is an art form. And like any art, there are some guidelines that help—but the most important rule is that it should feel RIGHT to you.
Here's how I approach layering and styling intentional jewelry, whether you're mixing ocean-inspired pieces, yoga symbols, or affirmation jewelry.
The Foundation: Start With Your Intention
Before you even open your jewelry box, ask yourself: What do I need today?
- Need grounding? Reach for earth-toned gemstones
- Seeking calm? Choose blues and cooling stones
- Want courage? Go for fiery reds and bold pieces
- Healing energy? Clear quartz and simple designs
Your jewelry should support your daily intention, not just match your outfit.
Layering Necklaces: The 3-Level Rule
This is my go-to formula for necklace layering:
Level 1: Choker or Short (16") - This sits at your collarbone
Level 2: Medium (18-20") - Falls just below your collarbone
Level 3: Long (24-30"+) - Reaches your chest or below
Pro tip: Vary the thickness and visual weight. Pair a delicate chain with a chunkier statement piece. Mix smooth silver with textured elements.
Example combo from my collections:
- Short: Delicate affirmation necklace
- Medium: Ocean-inspired pendant with gemstone
- Long: Yoga inspired one of a kind gemstone necklace
The key? Each piece should have its own "breathing room" and not tangle with the others.
Mixing Your Collections: Ocean + Yoga + Affirmations
YES, you can absolutely mix pieces from different collections! Here's how:
The "Theme" Approach:
Choose pieces that share an emotional theme even if the symbols differ.
Example: Feeling like you need peace and flow?
- Ocean wave necklace (represents going with the flow)
- Lotus yoga bracelet (symbolizes rising above)
- "Breathe" affirmation ring (reminds you to stay calm)
The "Metal Unifier" Approach:
Since all my pieces are sterling silver, they naturally work together. Let the silver be your cohesive thread while the symbols tell your unique story.
Stacking Bracelets & Rings
Bracelets: I love an odd number—3, 5, or 7 pieces stacked together. Mix:
- Thin bangles with beaded bracelets
- Gemstone pieces with smooth silver cuffs
- Different textures (hammered, polished, twisted)
Rings: Don't be afraid to wear rings on multiple fingers! Try:
- One statement ring + two delicate bands
- Midi rings mixed with regular rings
- Thumb rings for a bohemian vibe
My personal rule: If your hands are doing a lot of work that day (typing, yoga, diving), go lighter. If you're having a chill day, stack away!
Daily Wear vs. Special Occasions
For Daily Wear:
- 2-3 pieces maximum
- Focus on comfort and durability
- Choose pieces that won't snag on clothing
- Go for your "intention of the week"
For Special Occasions:
- Go bold! 4-5+ layered pieces
- Make a statement with longer necklaces
- Add pieces you usually "save"
- Mix in your most meaningful jewelry
The "Getting Dressed" Ritual
Here's how I personally approach it each morning:
- Set my intention - What do I need today?
- Choose my anchor piece - Usually the most meaningful item
- Add complementary pieces - 1-2 more that support the intention
- Check the mirror - Does it feel like ME?
- Adjust if needed - Sometimes less is more
This becomes a mindful practice—not just getting dressed, but preparing myself energetically for the day.
Caring for Your Layered Look
When you're wearing multiple pieces:
- Put jewelry on LAST (after perfume, lotion, hair products)
- Take it off FIRST (before workouts, swimming, sleeping)
- Store separately to prevent tangling and scratching
- Cleanse energetically weekly, especially gemstone pieces
Style Tips by Collection
Ocean Collection:
Pairs beautifully with blues, whites, and earth tones. Layer with other ocean pieces for a "mermaid stack" or mix with affirmations for beach-to-city vibes.
Yoga Collection:
Minimalist and meaningful—perfect for layering without overwhelming. Great for daily wear and pairs with everything.
Affirmation Collection:
These pieces are conversation starters! Wear them where people can read them. Great layered with simpler pieces so the words stand out.
Breaking the "Rules"
Here's the thing about rules—they're meant to be broken!
If you want to wear 7 necklaces at once? DO IT.
Want to wear only ocean pieces? PERFECT.
Feel called to wear just one simple ring? BEAUTIFUL.
The whole point of intentional jewelry is that it serves YOU and YOUR journey.
I've been a SCUBA diver, stuntwoman, yogi, and cancer survivor. I've learned that rules are just suggestions, and the best style comes from listening to your own inner voice.
Your Jewelry Tells Your Story
Remember: You're not just accessorizing. You're wearing your story, your intentions, your dreams.
Each piece you layer is a chapter. Each combination is a new page.
So play, experiment, mix, and most importantly—wear what makes you happy in your own skin.
Because at the end of the day, that's what this is all about.
Have questions about layering your specific pieces? Send me a message—I love helping customers create their perfect combinations!
💙 Szilvia
P.S. Share your layered jewelry looks with me on Instagram @goghjewelrydesign—I feature customer styles in my stories!
Ready to build your intentional jewelry collection?
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