The expert spoke about the trends of youth jewelry in 2026

Jewelry for students and young audiences is increasingly ceasing to be a status symbol and turning into a way of self-expression, becoming part of the everyday wardrobe. On January 28, Taisiya Iznova, Director of SOKOLOV's Category management department, told Izvestia about which jewelry and accessory trends will be most in demand in the near future.

"It is important for them that the jewelry reflects character, mood or personal history, and not just demonstrates status," the expert said, emphasizing that young buyers no longer wait for special occasions to wear a ring or earrings, and prefer current products instead of family jewelry. According to her, jewelry accessories today are perceived as naturally as sneakers or a bag.

In 2026, according to Iznova, universal formats that can be easily combined and adapted to different images will be especially popular among young people. This approach reflects the demand for reasonable consumption and the desire to experiment without significant costs. Bright and playful kidcore elements with colored acrylics and crystals will be in fashion, as well as a unisex style that suggests a common "box" for two and a rejection of rigid gender boundaries. The aesthetics of mix and match, based on layering and a free combination of fine jewelry, will also retain its position.

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According to the expert, laconic but expressive solutions come to the fore in the design — asymmetrical earrings, neat cuffs, thin chains, small brooches and pins. Such products are easy to wear every day and fit into both casual and more elegant looks. Jewelry is increasingly becoming a personal manifesto reflecting a condition or stage of life, so there is a growing interest in unusual shapes, symbols, letters and emotional accents.

Personalization remains a separate trend. Young buyers are increasingly choosing products with engravings, initials, zodiac signs, or pendants associated with important life events. As Iznova notes, such an individual story is more valuable to them than the traditional idea of high cost.

For those who are just starting to assemble their jewelry collection or have a limited budget, the expert advises betting on the base — minimalistic rings, hoop earrings, thin chains and simple pendants.

"It is important to choose jewelry that will easily fit into everyday life and will not lie in a box. One universal product is better than several random ones," the specialist concluded.

On December 26, Iznov revealed to Izvestia the rules for the harmonious combination of rings. According to her, large smooth models and track rings look best on the thumb or index finger, designer accent jewelry - on the index or middle finger, and seals are still a classic option for the little finger. Rings with large stones are increasingly worn on the index finger, which makes the image more expressive.

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