- - I’m Building a Jewelry Capsule Wardrobe—These Are the 3 Staples I’m Investing in First

Laura TarafaJanuary 15, 2026 at 11:15 PM

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How to Build a Versatile Jewelry Capsule Wardrobe Courtesy of Rocksbox

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One of the easiest (and arguably most fun) ways to elevate your look is with a thoughtfully curated jewelry collection you can dip into depending on your outfit and, of course, your mood. There’s something almost magical about slipping on a pair of earrings and a few rings that suddenly makes you feel polished and pulled together. And for lavish evening affairs, nothing compares to layering on statement pieces—sparkling faceted stones, bold mixed metals, and designs so dazzling you can’t seem to look away.

As a self-proclaimed jewelry-obsessed magpie (with an overflowing jewelry box that desperately needs downsizing), I started thinking about how to simplify a collection without sacrificing style. If you, too, are considering paring back your glittering stash (or thoughtfully adding to it), I’ve decided to break down exactly what a jewelry box needs to feel complete, at its most minimal.

To gain a little expert insight into how to build the perfect capsule, I turned to the pros. I reached out to Christina Caruso, New York City–based jewelry designer and founder of her eponymous label, whose opulent creations have been worn by style icons including Katie Holmes, Cynthia Erivo, and more. I also sought expertise from Rosanna Fiedler, founder and designer of Wyld Box, known for bold designs crafted from fine metals, precious stones, and diamonds—with serious personality pieces and fans like Cardi B, Ashley Graham, and Jenna Ortega.

Ahead, discover exactly how to curate a capsule of your own. With just a few key pieces per category, you can build a versatile jewelry wardrobe for every occasion.

How to Build a Jewelry Capsule

1. The Foundation Pieces

“When you’re building a jewelry capsule collection, start with intention,” says Christina Caruso. “It’s about creating a thoughtful edit of pieces that elevate your everyday style while still feeling timeless.” She suggests starting with the styles you instinctively reach for. “Our Thick Hoop, Torus Cuff, and Gold Choker are perfect examples of foundation styles. They have a modern, understated elegance that works with everything.” Serving as the anchors of a capsule collection, these pieces offer a versatile base for effortless layering.

Thick Hoop

$100.00 at atpresent.com

U-Link Earrings

$138.00 at jenny-bird.com

Luna Mini Ring

$3500.00 at Fwrd

Dome Wavy Ring

$80.00 at oakandluna.com

Talia Gold Bangle Bracelet

$85.00 at analuisa.com

Torus Cuff

$945.00 at christinacaruso.com

Parker Bracelet

$75.00 at amazon.com

Deco Paper Clip Chain Necklace

$250.00 at Nordstrom

18k Gold Plated Flat Curb Chain

$98.00 at rocksbox.com

Lucy Williams Short Square Snake Chain Necklace

$275.00 at Missoma

2. The Timeless Must-Haves

For Rosanna Fiedler, longevity in a jewelry capsule comes from authenticity and balance. “Start with intention. A jewelry capsule should reflect who you are—your rhythm, your energy, your story.” Pieces that endure are those that work seamlessly between occasions and styling moods. “A strong capsule should have a mix of metals and textures—for instance, a bold cuff, a sleek pair of hoops, and a signature pendant that transitions from day to night.”

Premium Akoya Cultured Pearl Stud Earrings

$250.00 at brilliantearth.com

1 ctw Round Lab Grown Diamond Stud Earrings

$695.00 at grownbrilliance.com

Solid White Gold Simple Hoops

$265.00 at astridandmiyu.com

Ava Baguette Channel Set Hoops

$3000.00 at hannahflorman.com

Classic Diamond Tennis Bracelet

$2468.00 at ringconcierge.com

Bezel Lab Diamond Tennis Bracelet

$2260.00 at withclarity.com

Bayberry 7 White Topaz Bracelet

$588.00 at haverhill.com

Sterling Silver Mindy CZ Studded Ring

$86.00 at sterlingforever.com

Signature Midi Knockout Pendant

$230.00 at deandavidson.com

White Gold Oval Shape Lab-Grown Diamond Pendant

$950.00 at jamesallen.com

3. The Statement Styles

Even the most pared-back jewelry wardrobe benefits from moments of expression. Christina turns to sculptural and organic shapes to create visual interest. “I love when a collection feels balanced—something like our Palm Leaf Earring or Ginkgo Leaf Earring adds an artistic/organic element that still feels effortless.”

Rosanna also sees statement pieces as essential to a well-rounded capsule. “At Wyld Box, we design with that in mind: every piece has meaning and presence. Begin with one or two statement designs that instantly elevate your everyday look, then layer in smaller, complementary pieces over time.” Throw on a bold, artful piece to make an everyday statement, or a more dramatic jewel-adorned style on a night that calls for extra sparkle.

Ginkgo Leaf Earring

$445.00 at christinacaruso.com

Celeste Earrings

$195.00 at karayoo.com

Asterales Celestial Drop Earrings

$275.00 at saksfifthavenue.com

Darianna Earrings

$1275.00 at Jennifer Behr

Manifestation Locket Single Charm Necklace

$450.00 at aweinspired.com

18K Yellow Gold Malachite Luna Cuff

Moda Operandi, Inc.

$19700.00 at Moda Operandi

Hera Bracelet

$840.00 at kinraden.com

Ona Ring

$126.00 at Agapée

Blue Topaz Ring

$218.00 at wolfandbadger.com

Morganite and Diamond Lotus Ring

$22800.00 at danielgibbings.com

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