The Jewelry Trends Defining 2026, From Torque Chokers to Wearing Pearls the 'Wrong' Way

Jewelry in 2026 isn't about playing it safe, it's about breaking a few rules, reviving ancient shapes, and wearing pieces in ways they were never quite meant to be worn.

The year 2026 is seeing a lot of old pieces being reinvented, with some styling choices breaking the rules of convention. If you’ve got one of these in your closet, it’s time to bring them out and have some fun.

Torque Chokers

This bold, structured band that often sits high on the collarbone, accentuated by a single stone or pendant, is making a comeback, but with a more minimalist look. Originally worn by warriors and mythological figures during the Bronze Age, the choker has been seen on Hailey Bieber, who wore a custom Lorraine Schwartz torque at the Grammys. Torque chokers have also been seen on the runways of Gucci, Schiaparelli, and Acne.

Arm Cuffs

Originally worn on the wrist, today’s arm cuffs sit higher on the arm, often above the elbows towards the shoulder. The shape came from Elsa Peretti's Bone Cuff, created for Tiffany & Co. in 1970 and inspired by the designer's fascination with the skeletal architecture of the wrist. These bangles, which are also reminiscent of the “bicep bracelet” of the 90s, have been seen on Zoë Kravitz and Alexa Chung, who called it her "upper arm shim sham."

Everyday Objects, Reimagined

Even everyday objects are finding their place in jewelry. Objects like a bean, a key, even a tinned fish, are being reimagined as wearable talismans. Tiffany & Co.'s classic Bean necklace, one of designer Elsa Peretti's signatures, is a longtime example of this, while newer pieces from brands like Alighieri also embrace this playful spirit.

Cocktail Watches

These fashionable timepieces are becoming a favorite for both daytime wear and dressier occasions. Cartier and Chanel have come up with their own cocktail pieces, with their Baignoire and Première styles, offering a softer, more delicate alternative to stacking multiple bracelets at once.

Wearing Jewelry the "Wrong" Way

Beyond the styles, there is a trend happening lately where jewelry is worn the wrong way. Runways have been breaking the rules this season, with models wearing necklaces underneath clothes instead of over them. At Magda Butrym's spring/summer 2027 show, long pearl necklaces subtly peek from sheer dresses and cropped jackets. At Fforme, jewelry found its way to handbags, including a chunky, signet-ring-inspired necklace created in collaboration with ANH Studio, draped over one.

This year’s jewelry story is all about finding other ways to wear them. From a minimalist take on bold chokers to bracelets grazing the upper arm, to pieces showing up where they’re not expected to. And these trends aren't just for the ultra-wealthy. They also show up across the spectrum, from six-figure heirloom pieces to more accessible brands like Pandora and Monica Vinader. If you're willing to be a little more out of the box, this is your time to shine.