New year, new you. Well, that’s how the saying goes anyway. Usually at this time of the year people purge their closets to get rid of things that they don’t have use for anymore. Sometimes this means their jewelry as well. If this is something that you are considering doing, then heed my warning. All things do eventually come back into style. However, if it wasn’t your style to begin with and you don’t see your style evolving to include that piece, then it’s time to donate it or trade with a friend. At the end of the day though there are certain styles that every woman needs to hold onto. If you can’t decide about one of these styles, then keep it. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

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These are the pieces that genuinely mean something to you. A nameplate necklace, a gold bar necklace with your kids names, charms that are milestones of your life and the birthstones of yourself and of your family members. These will always mean something to you. If you don’t wear them often, then try mixing them with other jewelry that is a self expression of who you are. Pile them on with mixed material bracelets for a bohemian vibe or add an evil eye pendant. Anything that keeps the look very unique and very you.

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I call these “old faithfuls”. These are your every day go-to’s. Your favorite watch, simple earrings, eye catching ring. However you feel comfortable because this is all about the grab and go. It doesn’t matter if you have owned some of these since high school. These are your version of a jewelry security blanket. Update these pieces by mixing in some of the seasons bright colored pieces to keep them looking current. When something looks dated, you start to hesitate about wearing it. Mixing them with some current colors and styles keep your old favorites trendy.

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These are usually trendy and high impact pieces with colorful stones and elaborate detail. A lot of people save these for a night out, but I think its fun and unexpected to mix them with plain tank tops, t-shirts or a plaid button up. If you are cleaning out your things, then these are usually the pieces to start at. These are probably going to be some of the things that you end up parting with. Before you give them the boot, ask yourself these questions. “Have I worn it?” “Do I have things that go with it?” And “does it reflect my style still?”. If the answer is no to all of these questions, then it’s time to say goodbye. If the answer is yes to even one, then maybe start thinking of ways you can rework it into your wardrobe for a new look.

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There are certain things that every woman needs whether she feels she will wear them or not. Trust me, there will be an occasion where you will be reaching for them. They are timeless and classic pieces that instantly add a dose of femininity to your outfit. If you are thinking of tossing some out, then try to keep at least one or two of each. They are as follows: gold studs, diamond studs, small gold hoops, pearl earrings, gold chain, silver chain, pearl necklace, diamond pendant, dainty watch, and any diamond or pearl rings. These are the pieces that you wear when you aren’t necessarily trying to make a huge fashion statement, but still want to look put together. They are still glamorous, but in a demure Grace Kelly way.

I know that the thought of getting rid of some things seems exciting, and let’s be honest, helps make more room for new things. There is always some jewelry that you should hold onto though, whether you think you will wear it or not. Start by editing the things that you bought that were trendy at the time. Don’t be afraid to pitch that fake gold necklace covered in monkeys that you thought was cute, but hold onto those pearls that seem too boring to wear. You can always play around and mix and match things until you create a look that you like. Have fun and good luck with the 2015 purge.

xo Stephanie