How to Choose the Right Jewellery for Everyday vs. Special Events
Jewellery can elevate even the simplest outfit, but not every piece is suited for every occasion.
As a Calgary-based jewellery concierge and stylist, I help clients build intentional collections that work for their daily lives and those unforgettable moments. Whether you’re getting dressed for a morning meeting or a black-tie gala, here’s how to choose jewellery that feels appropriate, stylish, and true to you.
Everyday Jewellery: What to Look For
Everyday jewellery should feel effortless, versatile, and durable. These are the pieces you reach for without thinking. Your go-to favourites that work with most of your wardrobe.
Key Traits:
Comfortable enough to wear all day
Easy to mix and layer
Matches your everyday wardrobe and go-to colour palette
Minimal maintenance (or at least not too delicate)
Everyday Essentials:
✔ Classic studs or small hoops
✔ A signature ring or stack
✔ A simple pendant necklace or diamonds-by-the-inch
✔ A chain bracelet or small cuff
| Want help building your everyday essentials? Explore Jewellery Style Profile & Capsule Edit.
Special Event Jewellery: When to Go Bold
Special occasion jewellery is your opportunity to express your personality, mood, or meaning. These pieces often have more sparkle, colour, or sentiment, and can completely transform your look.
Look for:
Statement pieces that contrast or elevate your outfit
High-impact designs (think bold gemstones, sparkle, or sculptural shapes)
Jewellery with emotional or symbolic value (like heirlooms, milestone pieces, or meaningful gemstones)
Great Special Occasion Pieces:
✔ Statement earrings
✔ A bold cocktail ring
✔ Large gemstone necklace
✔ Heirloom or custom designs
| Curious about meaningful custom jewellery? Learn about Custom Jewellery Consultations.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Your lifestyle plays a big role in what’s practical for daily wear. Do you have young kids? Work with your hands? Travel often? These factors shape what’s comfortable, durable, and truly wearable for you.
If You’re Active or Hands-On
Stick to smooth profiles, low-set rings, and secure clasps
Avoid delicate chains or pavé that can catch or bend
If You Dress for the Office
Choose classic pieces with polish (studs, cuffs, dainty chains)
Add small flourishes like a pearl drop or subtle stack
If You Travel or Attend Events Often
Opt for versatile staples you can dress up or down
Consider mixing metals to increase your outfit options
| Need help choosing the right jewellery for your lifestyle? Explore Personal Jewellery Shopping.
Can One Piece Do Both?
Yes! Some of the most loved pieces in your collection will work everywhere. These are what I call “capsule crossovers”: designs that are elegant enough for events, but minimal enough for everyday.
Examples of Capsule Crossover Pieces
Medium gold hoops
Diamond studs
Layered chain necklaces
Diamond tennis bracelet
Vintage-inspired earrings or ring
| Not sure what fits your life and style? Let’s design your signature stack, together. Explore Styling Sessions.
Final Thoughts: Style for the Life You Actually Live
Choosing jewellery isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about aligning each piece with your lifestyle, personality, and the moment you’re in.
Whether you’re dressing for a Tuesday morning meeting or your anniversary dinner, the right jewellery can help you feel polished, powerful, and completely like yourself.
As a jewellery concierge and stylist in Calgary, I help clients find those just-right pieces that carry them through everyday moments and unforgettable milestones.
| Want personalized styling advice? Book a free Discovery Call.
| Explore The Refined Experience to curate your ideal collection.
✨ Ready to find jewellery that actually feels like you?
👉 Follow along on Instagram @refined.by.robyn