A simple styling guide from the makers of handcrafted silver, pearl and gemstone jewellery
Most of us choose jewellery after choosing the outfit. But the hair we wear on the day changes everything. A long drop earring that looks stunning with a high bun can disappear into open hair, and a layered necklace can get tangled in a loose braid. A little planning saves you from taking things off at the last minute.
This guide walks through the most common hairstyles and the silver, pearl and gemstone pieces that sit best with each one. If you want a wider look at what suits your face, you can also read our guides on earrings for face shape and finding your jewellery personality.
The Quick Hairstyle and Jewellery Guide
| Hairstyle | What shows | Best jewellery choice |
|---|---|---|
| Bun or updo | Ears, neck and neckline | Necklace set or statement earrings |
| High ponytail | Ears and neck | Compact pendant set or drop earrings |
| Side braid | One ear, one shoulder | One elegant pair of earrings, light necklace |
| Open straight hair | Neckline only | Pendant or short necklace |
| Soft curls or waves | Neckline, sometimes ears | Pendant set with colour |
| Half-up half-down | Front of the ears | Pearl pendant and small earrings |
1. Bun or Updo: Let the Whole Neckline Shine
An updo is the best canvas for jewellery. With nothing covering your ears or neck, a full set looks balanced and intentional. This is the hairstyle to choose when you want to wear a necklace and earrings that were made to go together.
A long chain set with mother of pearl in a rose gold tone gives a soft, luminous finish, and it sits beautifully against a bare neckline.
Styling tip: With a bun, keep the rest of the look simple. Let one jewellery set be the hero and skip extra bracelets or rings that compete with it.
2. High Ponytail: Go for Movement
A high ponytail pulls everything away from your face, so your ears and the front of your neck are fully visible. This is where a compact pendant set looks its best, because it frames the neckline without competing with the hair.
A pearl and gold-tone pendant set adds a polished touch, and it works well for office days, brunches and evenings out.
Styling tip: Keep the necklace close to the neck with a ponytail. A long chain can swing into your hair when you move.
3. Side Braid: Keep It Soft and Balanced
A side braid covers one shoulder and often one ear. That makes a pair of lightweight earrings the smartest choice. Pearl is a lovely match for braids because its soft shine echoes the texture of the hair.
Styling tip: Pull the braid to the side that has the simpler earring, or sweep it behind the shoulder when you want both ears to show.
4. Open Straight Hair: Let a Pendant Lead
When hair falls past your shoulders, your ears are mostly hidden and the neckline becomes the focus. A pendant on a fine chain sits neatly against open hair without tangling. Choose a colour that you love, because this is the one spot where it will be noticed.
Styling tip: Lift your hair over the chain after you put the necklace on. This stops the chain from catching underneath.
5. Soft Curls and Waves: Add a Touch of Colour
Curls add texture and volume, so a flat or very plain necklace can get lost. A pendant set with enamel or a floral design holds its own and adds colour to the look.
Styling tip: Choose earrings that sit close to the ear so curls do not catch on them through the day.
6. Half-Up Half-Down: Keep the Pearl Close
This hairstyle shows the front of your ears and leaves the neckline open. A single pearl pendant is the easy answer. It works for casual days, dinners and festive gatherings alike.
Prefer something with more charm? The Pearl Heart Silver Pendant adds a romantic touch, and our pearl necklace collection has more options.
Three Simple Rules That Work for Every Hairstyle
Rule 1: Show only one star
If your hair is up, choose between statement earrings or a statement necklace, unless they come as a matching set. If your hair is down, let the pendant lead.
Rule 2: Check the length
Long earrings suit tied-up hair. Short studs and small hoops suit hair that is open or half-open.
Rule 3: Think about comfort
Chains can catch in loose hair and heavy earrings can pull on a tight ponytail. Light handcrafted pieces are easier to wear for a full day.
Care Tips for Jewellery Worn with Hair
Hair products such as sprays, oils and serums can dull silver and pearl over time. Put your jewellery on after styling your hair, and wipe each piece with a soft dry cloth before storing it. Keep pearls away from perfume and hairspray, and store silver in a dry pouch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which earrings suit a high ponytail?
Drop earrings and chain earrings suit a high ponytail best, because the hair is pulled back and the earrings are fully visible. Keep your necklace short or simple so the look stays balanced.
What jewellery should I wear with open hair?
With open hair, a pendant or a short necklace is the best choice because it stays visible. Small studs or pearl earrings work if you want a little extra shine near the face.
Can I wear a necklace set with a bun?
Yes. A bun leaves your ears and neckline completely open, so a matching necklace set looks balanced and complete.
Does pearl jewellery suit every hairstyle?
Pearl is one of the most flexible choices. It works with buns, braids, ponytails and open hair, and it suits both traditional and western outfits.
How do I stop my necklace from tangling in my hair?
Wear the necklace first, then lift your hair out from under the chain. A pendant on a fine chain or a shorter necklace tangles less than a long lariat.
Find Pieces That Match Your Style
Explore our handcrafted earrings, necklaces and pendant sets, or ask us to design a piece made just for you.
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