If you’ve been hanging out with me for a while, you know I love taking something ordinary and giving it a little twist, because where’s the fun in doing what everyone else is doing? That’s exactly what happened with today’s styling adventure, consisting of charms and chains.
Quote of the day: “You can’t cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.” Robindranath Tagore
In fact, the idea of adding charms and chains to an outfit reminds me of my word of the year a while back….EXTRA.
Considering one of the fall trends of 2025 was maximal accessories, I thought we could showcase different ways to bring this to life.
It all started as I was scrolling through Instagram and saw one of the stylists’ posts whom I follow. The display of charm and chains really tickled my fancy. I knew that my crew could take this idea and run with it.
Thus, we are showcasing 5 different ways that we styled charms and chains, but I bet you’ll think of even more ways by using your own creative streak. Please be sure to share what you come up with, as I’m sure there are many ideas I didn’t think about and will want to put to use.
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1. Charlotte- Waistband Charms and Chains
My mom took the idea of charms and chains and had fun creating a one-of-a-kind belt.
Talk about using some items you have lying around and creating a unique piece with them. If you didn’t realize, these “beads” are Mardi Gras beads. My mom tied 2 different necklaces together to create a belt, and then hung a charm from the front.
This look works especially well if your waistbands feel a little plain or if you’re wearing a tucked-in blouse that could use a focal point.
While you may think that your middle doesn’t need any additional focus, you’d be wrong. Because having a fun detail like this takes away the attention from the belly.
Don’t believe me…try it.
Details:
-My mom’s birthstone is garnets, and she has quite a collection of them. Her bracelet and a ring are just a couple of examples.
-These spectator pumps are ages old, but sometimes those are the most comfy shoes.
2. Jodie-Trim On Top Idea
Sometimes I love the idea of my accessories being part of the clothing instead of just an “add-on.” For this look, I wore a lightweight choker draped across the neckline of my top.
It almost mimics the look of sewn-on embellishment, but here’s the trick: it’s removable! I used my small magnets, but they aren’t available now.
Another option would be to get some magnetic necklace clasps and attach one on each side of the material.
It’s the perfect solution for anyone who loves detail but struggles with commitment. With removable charms and chains, you can switch things up in seconds.
Insider tip: It’s helpful to think about the weight of the top. I tried using my bracelet, but it ended up being too heavy and weighing down the fabric.
Details:
-My “belt” is a self-belt from 20-year-old pants I no longer have. I tied the bow in the back.
-I added a necklace to this purse instead of a scarf. Here’s the video showing how I did it.
-And then I added small scarves on each sandal. Why? Because more is more and everything else is a bore (I think Iris Apfel said that).
3. Jodie- Draped on a Vest
This idea was formulated after seeing an influencer create something similar, BUT she attached the charms and chains to the belt loop of her jeans.
The disadvantage of that is having to deconstruct the decor at every bathroom break.
So I created my own version that put all of the fun on the top half. I even made a video of the process that has 99K views and a good sprinkling of negative comments.
Details:
-I loved wearing this vest with my polka-dot blouse peeking out underneath. The blouse is a peplum, which gives the vest more verticality.
-The clear necklace used to decorate my vest is a sentimental piece that used to be my aunt’s. Then I used a cardigan clip through a button hole and the other one on the side, BUT NOT piercing the fabric.
Insider tip: When using these cardigan clips, you don’t have to put a hole through the fabric. I showcase how the pin goes around the material in a video.
4. Lesley- Necklace Statement
It’s true, Lesley admitted that this assignment was a stretch for her as she takes her clothes and accessories at face value, and doesn’t try to change them.
Yet, adding a brooch to an existing necklace it something she’s tried in the past. So she used that idea again for this episode of charms and chains.
If you’re new to experimenting, this is probably the easiest way to start. Just wear a necklace and add some charms, brooches or other jewelry to it.
Related post: You can go all out with a chain necklace and add all different brooches to it to create a one-of-a-kind necklace.
Details:
-The best type of necklace to add a brooch to is one that has an open chain link detail, so the closure of the brooch goes through it easily.
5. Jodie- Non Belt
I wore a version of charms and chains across my waist, yet not wrapped around the waist like a traditional belt. Instead I pinned a necklace from the side seams and then decorated it. This ended up as a video if you want to see the process in action.
Let me give credit where credit it due. This concept was inspired by Valerie who used a necklace as a belt with her pants, but only in the front.
Insider tip: This is a great way to add decoration to a dress without the heat from a belt that goes all the way around you.
And since you are putting it where you want it (meaning it doesn’t have to hang at your waist), you can camoflauge any pouff or extra belly.
Details:
-My ankle strap sandals have been converted to velcro to make them easier to get on and off. I created a YouTube video and blog post about this, because it’s easy and so helpful.
-I used the brooch to cover up the necklace closure, and added the clip on earrings on each safety pin for decor. But you wouldn’t have to.
Styling Tips for Beginners
If this idea feels a little “out there,” then let’s talk beginner tips:
- Start with a necklace. Wear a chunky chain with one or two charms.
- Try a handbag strap. Many purses already have chains; just add a charm or two to personalize it.
- Think about how a plain item can be “accessorized”. When you have clothing that needs either a necklace or belt, think about how you could make your own with charms and chains or something totally different.
The added benefit of this is creating new brain pathways. - Mix metals & beads. Don’t be afraid to combine gold, or silver, and use all of those items you tend to “save” for special. Everyday is special so wear it all.
Final Thoughts
Accessories like charms and chains are proof that no purchase is neccessary to create something new. You can completely transform your outfit in ways that feel fun, creative, and personal.
Each of our looks had a different vibe and composition, but they all started with the same idea of using charms and chains to add something to the mix.
So the next time you see a chain belt, necklace, or even just a loose piece in your jewelry box, don’t limit yourself to one way of wearing it. Think outside the (jewelry) box and let those charms and chains shine!
This idea is the same as being the boss of your clothes, we just added accessories to the mix.
Thank you
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Welcome to Jodie’s Touch of Style. I’m here to prove that it’s never too late to look great. Clothing and style are meant to showcase your inner personality. So let’s have fun and try new things.
It’s not just about me on this blog, but also my crew. We get to showcase not only different decades of life but also different body shapes and unique personal styles.
