Colder months mean more layering, and turning attention away from our clothes to accessories instead. From knee-high boots to chunky necklaces worn over knits, accessories across the board tend to make more of a statement during autumn and winter, especially jewellery.
This season, we have already seen a serious shift from dainty chains to long-line pendants dangling over tees, knits and sleeveless dresses. Big, chunky cuffs and thick bangles have been spotted worn over the top of long sleeves, while charms remain a go-to, with personalised initials and motifs dangling from necklaces. Rather than choosing between gold or silver, Australians are mixing metals across earrings, bracelets and even sleek timepieces, replacing clunky smart watches altogether.
If you have contemplated adding a few key pieces to your wardrobe for autumn, here is how you can do the same for your jewellery box.
1. Heirloom Jewels
Vintage-inspired pieces are on the rise, but not as we know it. Instead of searching high and low for dated jewellery, it is easier than ever to find vintage-looking pieces with a subtle modern twist. From pinky rings to brooches, heirloom jewellery often features gemstones for a one-of-a-kind look like Class A’s Ophelia Pinky Ring, which can be personalised with six different gemstones.
Class A Ophelia Pinky Ring, from $1,980
2. Cuff It
Quiet luxury continues to reign, yet this season cuffs are back, and bigger than ever. Far from costume-like, the wristwear we are spying in 2025 is shiny, curved and often the focal point of a fashion look. Unlike their smaller counterparts, these chunky cuffs, like COS’s new arrival, are designed to be seen, worn over chunky knits and even jackets as the weather cools.
COS Wide Cuff, $105
3. Long-line Pendants
Pendants are by no means new, we have seen them hanging around necks through spring and summer, yet they have had a subtle makeover for the cooler months. Think darker tones and brown cord in place of black; they remain an elegant way to elevate even the simplest plain T-shirt. We are lusting over Country Road’s Pia Necklace, which looks chic layered over soft knits and suede.
Country Road Pia Pendant Necklace, $99.95
4. Mixed Metals
No more choosing between silver or gold, it is time to wear both. Once considered a faux pas, mixing metals has surged in popularity, with fashion girls embracing combinations of gold, silver and even rose gold. Homegrown label Kirstin Ash is leading the way with sleek, everyday pieces like the Halcyon Bangle and matching hoop earrings.
Kirstin Ash Halcyon Bangle, $229
5. Cool-girl Charms
Long gone are the days of colourful beads, instead we are welcoming a selection of shapes in the form of charms that add personality to any piece of jewellery. Think luxe-looking gold and silver additions to necklaces; we have spotted a brand-new addition over at Mejuri that ticks all the boxes. The label just launched Puzzle Sliding Charms, designed to be worn stacked or solo, so you can choose your own birthstone, plus someone else’s.
Mejuri Puzzle Sliding Charm, from $198
6. Sculptural Shapes
Pear-drop earrings have long reigned as a statement-maker, but this season we are seeing a shift towards more sculptural shapes and organic designs. The most popular proves to be waves, organic lines and curves like Elka Collective’s Wave Earrings. Big enough in size to stand out yet small and lightweight enough for everyday wear, we have spotted this popular pair all over social media.
Elka Collective Wave Earrings, $129
7. Rectangular Timepieces
This season, watches are leaning more refined than sporty, with fashion-led styles replacing the bulky smartwatches that have dominated in recent years. Rectangular shapes are proving especially popular, with Australians moving away from classic circular faces in favour of the more vintage-inspired silhouette. A go-to for many shoppers is Swiss luxury brand Tissot, with the SRV emerging as a crowd favourite this season thanks to its art deco-inspired shape and gorgeous mother-of-pearl dial.
Tissot SRV 30mm, $725
