Statement Jewels To Take Your New Year’s Eve Look To The Next Level

New Year’s Eve marks the last night of event-dressing season, meaning most of us have already whirled our way through our entire wardrobe of party ensembles by the time we get to December 31. Whether you have something special lined up to wear for the first time or you’re wondering how to jazz up a beloved existing outfit to ring in the New Year, make great jewelry styling your superpower.

“If your outfit is sober, choose a slew of necklaces or stacking rings and bracelets, so the jewels can become the masterpiece,” says Yvonne Léon, founder of her eponymous Paris-based brand, known for its chic and irreverent pieces. So, if you’re considering taking your trusty LBD or low-key tailoring out for a twirl, lean on your favorite pieces and stack liberally. Whether expertly cascading or artfully undone, there is a science to necklace layering, and LA-based Anita Ko – whose namesake brand is loved by the likes of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Michelle Obama – advises starting from the clavicle and working your way down: “The key to great layering is to start with a choker or shorter necklace and add styles that vary in length, width and texture,” says Ko.

If you’re going all out in sequins, colors or a unique silhouette, opt for one standout piece of jewelry. “A pendant, striking earrings, or a charismatic signet ring” are Léon’s suggestions, meaning her ‘Chevalière Marquise’ 18-karat gold and diamond ring on your pinky finger will do the trick. For square, round or V necklines, a short chain-link necklace, such as David Yurman’s chunky style, dusted with pavé diamonds, is the perfect focal point. If you’re wearing a plunging neckline, consider a long pendant, or something with an eye-catching design, such as Foundrae’s ‘Vivacity’ necklace; it’s crafted from 18-karat gold with a mix of clip-chain links and a pretty medallion featuring diamonds and two white-gold feathers that symbolize wings and a limitless sky – an ideal emblem to guide you into the new year. For high necklines, focus on earrings – Anito Ko’s pretty ear cuffs can be worn all together or across both ears.

If you want to add color to a more muted outfit in an elegant way, colored stones are a sophisticated choice – just be sure they complement each other. “Festive shades of blue sapphires, emeralds or red agate will add sparkle and elegance to your outfit,” says Léon. “For the perfect balance, pair them with diamonds or minimalist pieces in yellow gold, but avoid overloading.” Remember to consider your makeup and nails, too – a scarlet lip will enhance pretty rubies, while Marlo Laz’s morganite ‘Lexie’ ring will look ultra-chic against a chocolate-brown manicure.

If you’re adding new pieces to your existing collection, consider which events in your 2025 diary they’ll also work for, and what you therefore require. Big and bold? Dainty yet dazzling? “Look for versatile pieces you can enjoy beyond the holidays,” advises LA-based Suzanne Kalan, another jeweler beloved by A-listers. “It’s all about having fun and letting your personality shine through your jewelry. Don’t overthink it – just pick pieces that make you feel confident and fabulous.” For the ultimate versatility, Kalan’s 18-karat white-gold diamond necklace comes in a generous 37-inch length, so you can wear it in various ways. This New Year’s Eve, why not double it up for maximum impact?

What to wear this New Year’s Eve

The party jewels on Team NET-A-PORTER’s wish list