How to Wear Jewelry to a Formal Event in 2026, According to Celebrity Stylists
As the 2026 awards season unfolds—from the Golden Globes to the Oscars and beyond—celebrity stylists are guiding a refined yet expressive approach to jewelry for formal events. Whether you’re attending a black-tie gala, wedding, state dinner, or high-profile fundraiser, the emphasis is on intentional, curated pieces that feel elevated and personal. Gone is the era of excessive layering or novelty overload; instead, restraint, quality, and bold single statements dominate, allowing jewelry to complement rather than compete with your outfit.
Celebrity stylist Julie Matos, who has styled stars like Julianne Moore and Cobie Smulders, stresses that “jewelry at a formal event should never feel like an afterthought—it should look intentional, elevated, and aligned with the dress code. In 2026, we are seeing bold expression, but it has to be curated.” Stylist Sara Acevedo echoes this, defining formal events as occasions demanding “elevated, intentional attire” with polish and respect for the setting, such as ceremonies, awards shows, operas, or galas.
Embrace Restraint with One or Two Impactful Pieces
The overarching trend on 2026 red carpets is “uninterrupted lines” and sculptural simplicity. Stylists recommend focusing on a single decisive gesture rather than stacking or cluttering.
- Choose oversized or dramatic earrings—such as long drops, chandeliers, or sculptural cuffs—for high-neckline or modest gowns to draw attention upward.
- Opt for a bold necklace like a torque, cascading pendant, collar, or high-jewelry choker for plunging or off-the-shoulder necklines.
- Brooches have surged in popularity, pinned to lapels, gowns, or suits for a modern, artistic touch. This trend, popularized by both men and women (from Jared Leto to Keri Russell in Boucheron pieces), adds heritage-inspired flair without overwhelming the look.
This curated approach creates elegance and balance, as seen in red-carpet moments where stars like Hailee Steinfeld in Repossi or Hudson Williams in Bulgari Serpenti let one standout piece define the ensemble.
Incorporate Color and Gemstones Thoughtfully
While diamonds remain timeless for sparkle, 2026 favors vibrant accents to inject personality.
- Colored gems—emeralds, sapphires, rubies, or even desert diamonds (in warm yellows, champagnes, and cognacs)—appear in bezel settings for a fresh, contemporary edge.
- Pair these with archival or heritage pieces, as showcased by Teyana Taylor in Tiffany & Co. or Miley Cyrus in bold emeralds, to add depth and storytelling.
Stylists advise using color sparingly against neutral, metallic, or dark gowns to keep the focus sharp.
Mix Metals and Textures with Intention
Mixed metals bring modernity, but keep it clean.
- Combine gold and platinum, or sculptural gold with white metals, for subtle contrast.
- Favor chunky cuffs, single bold rings, or cocktail watches over multi-finger stacks or excessive layering.
- Antique or vintage-inspired timepieces (like Jennifer Lawrence’s Longines) add character through history rather than flash.
Accessorize Hair and Details for Regal Polish
Elevate from every angle with subtle hair jewelry.
- Gem-accented pins, head jewels, or tiara-like pieces work beautifully with updos, drawing inspiration from events like the Cannes or Met galas.
- For added drama, consider minimalist tassels or delicate trails in diamonds.
Tailor to the Specific Dress Code and Outfit
Adapt jewelry to the event’s level of formality:
- White-tie (state dinners, ultra-elevated galas): Go all-out with your finest jewels—diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies in full sparkle.
- Black-tie or gala gowns: Statement earrings with a simple necklace, or vice versa; brooches on structured pieces for edge.
- Cocktail or semi-formal: Dynamic pieces with movement, like tassels or swingy drops, maintain evening sophistication.
- Balance necklines: Bold necklaces for low-cut styles; earrings for high or covered ones.
- For men: Brooches on tux lapels or understated watches offer subtle luxury, aligning with the gender-fluid jewelry wave.
In 2026, formal jewelry is about expressive refinement—favoring artful, single bold gestures over excess. Drawing from iconic red-carpet looks like Charli XCX in De Beers diamonds or archival Tiffany moments, the goal is pieces that feel like personal statements: elevated, current, and distinctly you. With these stylist-approved principles, your accessories will ensure you shine with confidence and sophistication at any formal occasion.
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