3 rules to follow when choosing accessories

When choosing accessories or just your outfit in general, it helps to have a basic understanding of colours and how they play together. Here are three must-know rules to guide you.

Basics of colour

The three primary colours are red, blue and yellow. These are the ones you can’t get by mixing any other colours. The secondary colours are green, purple and orange. Each of these colours lies opposite one of the primary colours. This is where you find maximum contrast. Tertiary colours are what you get when you mix a primary colour with a secondary one — for example, yellow and green. Tertiary colours are subtle blends, variations that sit between a primary and a secondary colour.

                                         

Using this foundation you can create multiple different colour schemes. The most basic and arguably most versatile is the neutral colour scheme. It consists of black, white and grey. Stylish, simple and it works anytime, anywhere.

Monochromatic

Next in line we have the monochromatic colour scheme. This is where you utilize multiple different variants or tones of the same colour. This makes for a well put together and often subtle look.

Analogous

Now to the analogous colour scheme. This is essentially where you choose colours and tones that lie next to each other, for example red, orange and yellow. This creates a calm feeling of harmony and sophistication.

Complementary

Over to the complementary colour scheme. Here we use a primary colour with its complementary secondary colour — found opposite on the colour wheel. For example: blue and orange or yellow and purple. This would be recommended if you want something eye catching and energetic.

Triadic

Finally, I should mention the triadic colour scheme. Here we are looking to choose three colours evenly spread across the colour wheel. Like yellow, red and blue, or green, purple and orange. It is worth mentioning though that this is more difficult to pull off. However, if you pull it off, it does make for an outstanding look.

1. Consider the tone of your outfit

If you’re going for a monochrome outfit (for example, black, grey or beige) you have a lot of freedom in your choice of accessories. Here you can lead with something colourful like lapis lazuli or turquoise; this will provide your look with a nice focal point and some contrast.

On the other hand, if you’re wearing something more colourful and vivid, you should consider either picking up a colour from the outfit to lead with or go with more neutral accessories. That could be, for example, white howlite, black obsidian or grey mapstone.

2. Pick one dominant colour

If you feel like wearing multiple bracelets — perhaps even stacking them on both wrists — then a good place to start is to pick one colour to be the dominant one and then either choose colours that match (analogous colour scheme) to create nuance or choose colours that contrast (complementary scheme) for balance and visual appeal.

3. Match with your skin tone

You can make the colours of the stones stand out even more if you consider the tone of your skin.

If you have a warm tone then gold and warm colours will be elevated, for example brown, red and olive. If you lean towards a cooler tone then silver and cold colours will be a nice match, for example blue, purple and white.

Final thoughts

Accessories are more than decoration; they’re a reflection of who you are. With the right combinations you can create an impression that feels both personal and stylish. Explore our bracelet collections and start building your own signature look. And remember: keep experimenting and trust your gut.