How to Wear Mixed Metals: Styling Gold & White Gold Like a Pro
How to Wear Mixed Metals: The Gold & White Gold Style Guide
Mixing metals—especially gold and white gold—is one of the most effortless ways to elevate your jewelry look. Once considered a fashion don’t, combining metal tones is now a signature trend worn by celebrities, designers, and everyday stylists who love a modern, layered aesthetic.
At Jacob Mercari, we encourage our clients to embrace this trend with confidence. When done intentionally, mixed-metal styling looks polished, balanced, and beautifully personal.
Why Mix Gold & White Gold?
Blending warm and cool metals instantly adds:
- Depth & richness to your jewelry layers
- Versatility across outfits and seasons
- Visual balance, letting each piece shine
- A contemporary twist to classic jewelry
Mixed metals work for minimalist everyday looks and bold, statement styling alike.
1. Start with a Mixed-Metal Anchor Piece
The easiest way to unify your look is to begin with one piece that already blends gold and white gold.
Great anchor pieces include:
- A two-tone engagement ring or wedding band
- A mixed-metal watch
- A pendant combining yellow and white tones
- A bracelet with contrasting links
Once this “bridge piece” is in place, every additional accessory feels intentional.
2. Layer Necklaces in Complementary Lengths
Layering necklaces is one of the most elegant ways to mix metals.
Try This Layering Formula:
- Start with a short white gold chain
- Add a mid-length yellow gold pendant
- Finish with a longer white gold or mixed-metal necklace
Pro Tip: Keep each necklace at a slightly different length to avoid visual clutter and let each metal stand out.
3. Stack Rings for a Modern Mixed-Metal Look
Ring stacking showcases mixed metals beautifully.
How to Style Mixed-Metal Rings:
- Alternate yellow gold and white gold bands
- Pair a gold solitaire with a white gold eternity band
- Mix slim bands with textured or diamond-accented rings
This works especially well with Jacob Mercari’s customizable ring designs. Your stack, your way.
4. Build a Balanced Bracelet Stack
A bracelet stack is a subtle but stylish place to introduce mixed metals.
Combine:
Aim for a 60/40 blend of metals so one doesn’t visually overpower the other.
5. Mix Earrings for a Chic, Elevated Look
Whether you wear a single pair or have multiple piercings, earrings are perfect for playful mixed-metal styling.
Try pairing:
- A white gold hoop with a yellow gold ear cuff
- Gold studs and white gold huggies
- Multi-metal earrings with diamond details
It’s a small detail that adds huge style impact.
6. Stay Consistent with Style, Even If Metals Differ
To keep mixed metals looking intentional, make sure other design elements match.
Maintain consistency with:
- Jewelry style (minimalist, bold, vintage-inspired)
- Stone type (diamonds, birthstones, colored gems)
- Finish (polished, matte, brushed)
This makes varying metals feel cohesive and curated.
7. Choose the Right Gold Balance for Your Skin Tone
While mixed metals suit everyone, choosing your dominant metal can enhance your natural undertone.
- Warm undertones: lean slightly toward yellow gold
- Cool undertones: let white gold lead
- Neutral undertones: any ratio works beautifully
Of course, your personal preference always wins.
8. Diamonds Bring All Metals Together
Diamonds are the perfect neutral they highlight both gold and white gold without competing.
Consider adding:
- A diamond pendant
- A tennis bracelet
- A pavé band
- Diamond huggie earrings
Each pairs effortlessly with both metal tones.
Final Thoughts
Mixing gold and white gold is more than a trend, it’s a timeless styling approach that adds versatility, elegance, and personality to your jewelry collection. Whether you’re layering necklaces, stacking rings, or customizing a meaningful piece, Jacob Mercari designs are made to mix and match seamlessly.
If you’d like help building your own mixed-metal look or designing a custom piece tailored to your aesthetic we are happy to help!
