How to Wear Bold Jewelry Right Now

Sure, it's easy to wear bold chunky jewelry when it's cold outside, but what about as it warms up? What's acceptable and what should be stored? What are a few great pieces that will update my wardrobe and not break the bank? We explore the answers to these questions, and more, as we take a look at statement jewelry for spring and summer.It's all in the details – This season, choose pieces that have elaborate or intricate details. These tend to look better with lightweight warm weather clothes like sundresses, delicate tank tops and sleeveless dresses. Try a great pair of chandelier earrings with many colored stones, or a pair of crystal and filigree drop earrings. One pair of great earrings like these can update an old favorite and make it new again.

Color, Color, Color – Bold jewelry tends to look a little heavy, especially if it includes a setting of jewel toned gems, so lighten it up with stones in spring colors. Go for pastels like chalcedony, blue agate or amethyst. These Easter egg hues look great with neutrals and keep the pieces looking fresh and vibrant. For brighter colors, try ethnic-inspired pieces that utilize beads and glass stones. A striking cocktail ring or necklace may be just the ticket for dressing up for a night on the town.Think Outside the Box – If you can't afford to run out and buy a new piece of gold or sterling silver statement jewelry, consider other materials for a similar impact. There are some great plastic and resin pieces available that are low on cost buy high on style. Plastic beaded necklaces and bracelets have a little bit of a retro vibe and are cool and careful for spring and summer.

Bold Jewelry: Fashion 2009

Bold Jewelry: Fashion 2009

From oversized bangles to huge hoop earrings to a mountain of gold chains, we've certainly seen it all when it comes to large over-the-top jewelry. Designers send costume-y pieces down the runway, but in reality, we see a lot of these trends carry over to the street scene. Celebrities such as Beyonce, Rhianna and Gwen Stefani are often seeing rocking huge earrings while out and about. Upscale retailers such as Nordstroms and Blooomingdales stock a wide variety of this type of jewelry. Even Target is in on the trend, offering statement rings and oversized bangles to the masses for a fraction of the cost. So what's all the fuss about?

It's about getting noticed. It's about making a statement. It's about defying the previous rules of fashion and pushing the envelope in terms of how much is too much. Bold jewelry was very popular in 2008, with everything from neon geometric shapes to layer-upon-layer of chains. Today, we continue to see everyone from pop icons to movie stars to college kids wearing this fashionable trend.

The great thing about bold jewelry is that it's meant to be exaggerated. It's meant to have a sort of costume appeal to it. Therefore, many of the pieces available are inexpensive, simply a replica of the real thing. Since all it takes is one bold piece to make your outfit stand out, most anyone can afford to get in on this fun trend.

If you're a little wary about wearing statement jewelry, start with something low-key like a giant cocktail ring, which can add a whole lot of pizzazz to a basic outfit. Work your way up to Cleopatra style bracelets or arm cuffs, if you're daring. Bold jewelry is meant to grab attention, so just be confident, and let your jewelry sets do the rest.