A Masterclass In Bangle Stacking

The bangles-versus-bracelets debate can be a divisive topic, splitting true jewelry obsessives into two distinct camps. There are, however, some undeniable benefits of bedecking yourself with bangles to create the ultimate wrist stack. Easy and breezy, bangles are popped on in a split second and can be stacked to striking effect with close-to-zero effort – no chains or clasps to complicate matters. But this simplicity – and the endless covetable options – can make knowing where to start seem confusing.

“Curating the perfect bangle stack is all about balance,” says Emily Johnston, fine-jewelry buyer at NET-A-PORTER. “It helps to first work out what will suit your wrist and lifestyle: are you someone who uses a computer keyboard all day and could find the clatter of chunky bangles to be cumbersome; or are you the type who wants to make a real statement with a sizeable stack?” asks Johnston. “Once you’ve worked out whether you’re taking a minimalist or maximalist approach to your curation, it will become much simpler to choose individual pieces.”

Some fine-jewelry designers do the hard work for you. Sophie Howard, founder of British brand By Pariah, wanted to give her customers a helping hand with their wrist styling, offering ready-made stacks of bangles in semi-precious materials and metals, including agate, sterling silver and 14-karat gold. “I love to stack my bangles like my ring stacks – mixing hard stones, solid gold and pavé diamonds for a look that’s timeless, contemporary but uniquely mine,” she explains. Maison Mayle similarly offers a candy-striped set of five bangles for those who enjoy bolder color palettes, while Spinelli Kilcollin’s elegant mixed-metal design is perfect for the ultra-minimalist.

To curate your own wrist-candy collection from scratch, consider the unique qualities of each design you include – and how it will sit alongside its neighbor. “Play with gold shades and textures, such as twisted, striped and smooth silhouettes, to create contrast and depth,” suggests Parisian fine jeweler Yvonne Léon, who is admired for her eclectic and irreverent designs that deliver color and shine in spades. “The key is to mix the different pieces while letting your creativity do the talking,” she advises.

Contrast can also be created with different combinations of scale and size. “Combining bangles of different widths is another great way to balance your stack,” says Kelly Souied, co-founder of Rainbow K, a firm favorite for Dua Lipa and Jennifer Lopez. “Thinner styles worn alongside wider pieces create visual equilibrium and highlight each individual piece,” concurs her partner, Kelia Toledano. The duo is known for taking a classic piece of diamond jewelry and riffing on it with modern design codes – and their bangles are no exception.

If how your jewelry makes you feel is more important to you than having an exacting approach to curation, simply follow your gut. Misha Daud, one of the most influential tastemakers in the wrist-styling world, always plans her look on the spur of the moment but does have some crucial guiding principles. “My stack is never less than three, and it is always compiled with love. Plus, plenty of gold, diamonds and more diamonds,” she quips. “If you’re starting out, begin gently and you will get a feeling for it – it will become more individual to you over time.”

This is a sentiment shared by collector and content creator Danielle Miele, who focuses on adding sentiment to her wrist-styling. “My bangle stack is ever-evolving – and I have a bangle for every year I have been married,” she explains. “I like adding vintage pieces and meaningful engravings, both hidden on the inside and visible on the outside,” she explains. “I also love taking basic bangles and adding diamonds to them to make them special. Each stone represents a milestone in my life.”

There’s only one rule for the best bangle stack: there’s no such thing as too many bangles. French fine jeweler Marie Lichtenberg, who is renowned for her whimsical, bohemian pieces, sums it up best: “I am neither for discretion nor minimalism when it comes to jewelry. Wrists should be an infinite playground.” Amen to that.

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