Why I Always Wear Art Jewellery

I’ve always believed that style isn’t about following trends, it’s about knowing what makes you feel good, confident, and utterly yourself. At 50 something, living in Melbourne, I’ve settled into a wardrobe that feels like me. Wide-leg jeans, cashmere sweaters, tailored blazers, soft jackets are my everyday uniform. The colours? Mostly neutral and understated: navy, grey, black, green, and denim.

Minimal, monochrome, versatile. Clothes that don’t shout, but whisper elegance.

And yet, there came a moment when I realised something was missing. My outfits, though comfortable and classic, sometimes felt… unfinished. They didn’t quite capture the creativity I feel and want to express. That’s when I discovered the transformative power of art jewellery, and my style, confidence, and wardrobe changed forever.

My Style Uniform

Living in Melbourne, I’ve always been drawn to a certain kind of style - simple, practical, but undeniably chic. This city has a way of celebrating individuality, but also embracing minimalism. Melbourne fashion often leans towards a palette of muted tones and monochrome shades, which suits me perfectly.

I’m happiest in jeans, soft knits, and tailored blazers. Cashmere sweaters layered under a jacket, denim for casual days, a sharp navy blazer when I want to feel pulled together. It’s clothing that feels good against my skin, that moves with me, that I don’t have to think twice about.

This is my comfort zone: understated clothes that are timeless, not trendy. I’ve always believed that when you feel comfortable in what you wear, you radiate confidence. But, as I learned, confidence can sometimes use a little extra spark.

Because here’s the truth: even the most beautiful monochrome outfit can occasionally feel flat. Clean, simple lines are elegant, but they often need contrast. I craved something that added personality, something unexpected. That’s when I discovered art jewellery, and everything shifted.

Discovering Art Jewellery

It began with a brooch.

One day, I pinned a bright, hand-drawn art brooch to the lapel of my navy blazer. I remember looking in the mirror and being surprised at how much of a difference it made. My outfit went from “nice” to “memorable.” That single piece of jewellery added creativity, interest, and individuality to what I was wearing.

From that day on, I realised that art jewellery isn’t just an accessory—it’s a transformation.

Unlike mass-produced jewellery, art jewellery feels like a little piece of wearable art. It carries with it the intention, creativity, and vision of the designer. And when I wear it, I feel like I’m carrying a piece of art with me into the everyday.

Over time, my collection grew. Bright, sculptural brooches, playful earrings, bold necklaces, all handmade, all distinct. Mostly made by me, but I am always on the look out for interesting wearable art pieces by other makers. Each piece has a story, and each one changes the way I feel when I wear it.

Why Art Jewellery Works for Me

So why did art jewellery become such an essential part of my wardrobe? The reasons are both practical and deeply personal.

It Adds Personality & Creativity

My monochrome wardrobe is like a blank canvas. Adding statement jewellery. Whether it’s a brooch in a bold pop of colour or statement shape, a pair of sculptural earrings, turns that canvas into something expressive and alive.

Every piece I wear is unique, and it reflects my personality: creative, curious, and a little whimsical. I love that art jewellery isn’t about trends, it’s about individuality.

It Starts Conversations

Here’s one of the unexpected joys of wearing wearable art jewellery: people notice. Compliments come easily, and often from strangers. “That brooch is fabulous!” or “Where did you get those earrings?”

It’s amazing how a small piece of jewellery can spark a connection. I’ve had conversations with people in cafés, at galleries, even in the supermarket, just because of a brooch or a pair of earrings. Jewellery becomes less about adornment and more about interaction.

It’s Comfortable & Practical

I’ll admit - I can’t wear heavy jewellery. Anything that drags on my ears or feels restrictive just doesn’t work for me. That’s why I started making my jewellery - they’re feather-light, hypoallergenic, non-tarnish and so comfortable that I forget I’m wearing them.

I can spend an entire day in a pair of oversized earrings or a sculptural necklace without ever adjusting or taking it off. Comfort is non-negotiable, and the best art jewellery balances beauty with wearability.

It’s Timeless & Sustainable

Fast fashion has never appealed to me. I don’t want jewellery or clothes that’s here one season and gone the next. What I love about art jewellery is its timeless appeal.

Made with high-quality, durable materials like stainless steel and aluminium , each piece is designed to last. Many are made in small runs, by independent designers in Melbourne and beyond, which means they’re sustainable choices, too. Supporting local makers who care about craftsmanship and ethics matters to me. It feels good to know my jewellery is as thoughtful as it is beautiful. I love wearing Australian-made contemporary jewellery like inSync design and other incredible makers. 

How I Style Art Jewellery Every Day

The beauty of art jewellery is how versatile it is. I don’t save it for special occasions, I wear it every day. Here are some of the ways I style it:

• Brooches on Blazers 

A sculptural brooch instantly transforms a simple navy blazer. I love how it draws the eye upward, framing the face and making the whole outfit feel considered.

• Earrings with Cashmere Sweaters

Soft, slouchy knits look instantly more polished with bold earrings. I often pair oversized sculptural studs with my cashmere sweaters, it’s the perfect balance of cosy and chic.

• Necklaces with Denim Jackets

On casual days, a simple denim jacket gets a lift from a colourful statement necklace. It’s a way of saying: yes, I’m casual, but I’m also creative.

• Layering Pieces

Sometimes I’ll wear more than one piece, a brooch with earrings, or earrings with a necklace. The key is balance. I never want to look “overdone”, just thoughtful, playful, and individual.

This isn’t about dressing up. It’s about making every outfit, no matter how simple, and feel like it’s a reflection of who I am.

Why I’ll Never Stop Wearing Art Jewellery

At this stage in life, I know what matters to me: comfort, creativity, and authenticity. Art jewellery gives me all three.

It allows me to express individuality without sacrificing comfort. It lets me invest in pieces that are sustainable, timeless, and made with integrity. And it connects me to a community of people who share an appreciation for design and artistry.

Every time I wear a piece of art jewellery, I feel more confident. More me. It’s as if I’m carrying a little spark of creativity with me wherever I go. And that’s why I’ll never stop wearing it.

For me, jewellery is not just decoration, it’s a conversation starter, a small daily act of self-expression, and a reminder that style should always feel personal.