The men’s jewelry market has exploded in recent years, thanks to no small part to the likes of celebrities from Harry Styles and Shawn Mendes to Pete Davidson and A$AP Rocky. It’s also a trend that hasn’t gone unnoticed at major fashion shows, where the men’s collections often feature heavy metal bracelets, stacked rings and textured necklaces. It may seem intimidating to enter the world of men’s accessories, but if you know where to look it’s possible to build up your collection with sleek styles that won’t offset your wardrobe (or your wallet).
To help get you started, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite contemporary jewelry brands for men, all of which offer minimalist and refined designs that won’t weigh you down. From edgy metals to sleek leather, these options will add the finishing touches you’re looking for without overwhelming your look.
If you’re looking for minimal, modern metal pieces, it’s hard to go wrong with gold and silver. Both are easy to pair with other metals and can be worn alone or layered together. Sterling silver is a particularly versatile option, offering a clean and crisp finish that will never feel too dated.
Depending on your taste, you can look to contemporary brands like Mejuri for understated essentials that won’t overwhelm your outfit or budget. This Canadian-based brand’s foray into men’s jewelry celebrates design stripped down to its essential elements, with simple geometry and modern materials.
Other brands that offer a more eclectic take on men’s jewelry include Brooklyn-based artisan Scosha Woolridge, who embraces color and wanderlust in her sculptural pieces. Similarly, Montego Bay-born designer Maor Cohen uses the beachy style he’s drenched in to create his vibrant and exotic men’s pieces.
You can also find a lot of men’s jewelry at Nordstrom, where the selection includes everything from high-end brands to casual everyday staples. The retailer’s in-house line, Pyrrha, offers classic gold and leather styles that are a great starting point for any budget. It also stocks a range of affordable and unique brands, including Ambush (founded by the wife of hip-hop artist Verbal) and Tom Wood, which makes men’s necklaces, earrings and bracelets inspired by work tools.
The best part about jewelry for men is that it’s totally customizable based on your personal taste. You can even mix and match from a few of these brands to create your own signature look. Just remember to layer with care — too many pieces can quickly detract from your overall look and look like you’re trying too hard. Try to stick with three or fewer pieces on each arm, including your watch, and avoid anything that is wider than the width of your tie if you’re wearing a collared shirt.