2026 is the year that you’re giving your jewelry box a serious upgrade. Statement jewelry will always be the easiest way to elevate your timeless wardrobe, whether its for an everyday outfit or something for a special occasion. While statement jewelry is having a major moment right now, it’s also the perfect investment for your closet.
Jewelry trends like chunky gold earrings and statement necklaces are my cheat code for making even the most basic outfits look stylish. I love to throw on a chunky gold necklace with a tank top and jeans or add a pair of gold statement earrings to take an outfit instantly from day to night. (You’ll always find the ‘Kia’ earrings rolling around my purse!)
If you’re experimenting with statement jewelry for the first time – or if you’re mixing metals and trying gold jewelry for the first time – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the different styles and silhouettes. I’m sharing my ultimate shopping guide to the 4 must-have statement jewelry pieces to invest in during 2026.
Chunky Gold Earrings
Nothing is as chic as a pair of statement hoops. They’re the perfect alternative to gold studs if you’re looking for a signature pair of everyday earrings, and they’ll work with every outfit in your closet.
You can make even the most casual outfits, like an Alo yoga set, look more elevated with a pair of these earrings. They’re the ultimate basics for your jewelry box and a style that’s universally flattering, whether you’re a fan of a sleek ponytail or if you’re embracing your natural curls.
Statement Pearl Necklace
The ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic has had its moment, but this trend shows how much of an impact it’s had on the fashion industry. Pearls have always been seen as an investment piece, but a statement pearl necklace is the perfect way to give this classic trend an update.
The ‘Pearl Obsession’ necklace is fashion-forward, effortless chic, and the ultimate choice for your signature piece. What I love about this necklace is that it’s hypoallergenic and water resistant, making it ideal for everyday wear, from day to night.
Chunky Chain Necklace
A chunky gold necklace is the first piece that comes to mind when I think of statement jewelry. It instantly catches the eye, and takes center stage, even if you’re styling it solo or with some matching earrings. ‘Naya’ is my go-to choice for necklace stacking, but it’s also stunning by itself. It’s a statement jewelry essential that I reach for at least twice a week, giving it the best cost-per-wear of anything in my jewelry.
If you want to expand your jewelry collection in 2026, add ‘Drama’ to your wishlist as well. This chunky gold necklace is the perfect way to start incorporating statement jewelry into your closet without going too far out of your comfort zone.
Gold Statement Earrings
I couldn’t finish this post without mentioning another pair of chunky gold earrings. ‘Kia’ is the chic, elegant, and minimalistic earrings your jewelry box has been crying out for! These oversized dome earrings encapsulate modern elegance and make a statement without needing to add any other jewelry. They’re my top recommendation if you like to keep things simple with a ‘less is more’ mentality.
Make 2026 the year that you fall in love with statement jewelry. At Cult of Sun, our water-resistant and hypoallergenic jewelry is designed to be mixed and matched your way, with free standard shipping on orders over $100.
Want to learn more about the latest jewelry trends and styling? Check out these posts:
5 biggest jewelry trends of 2026
Gold necklaces for women: the ultimate 2026 investment piece
Pearl necklace, but make it fashion: the cool girl guide
