Jewelry: The Best Ways to Show Off Bling

There is nothing that brings a smile to our face like a pretty ring, a jangly necklace, or some sparkly earrings. Big or small, real or fake, understated or over-the-top, jewelry lifts the spirits. It also lifts a look. Colorful beads or chandelier earrings could be just the thing to make an ordinary outfit outstanding. Read on for tips on how to best use jewelry to your fashion advantage.

While jewelry is a very personal thing - gifts from your significant other, family heirlooms, purchases to mark milestones - it can also be a reflection of your style spirit. Some people can't go out of the house without loading up necklaces, while for others simple studs will do. Some women prefer an armful of bangles, and some load up on brooches. No matter your preference, bits of baubles are all about adding joy to your look - so don't stress, have fun with it.

Keep it chic. In some instances, loading up on the sparklies is an exciting way to accent. But know when to stop. An armful of bangles, for example, means you should think minimal with your necklaces and earrings.

Tone it down when your clothes have a lot going on. A ruffle-front blouse can look sweet with a thin chain in the mix, but not with a big, ornate number.

You don't have to spend a lot on your baubles. Costume jewelry adds pizzazz. Beware of anything too cheap, and avoid pieces that are just poor imitations of the real deal.

There are so many directions you can go when it comes to necklaces, from subtle (a simple gold chain or a strand of pearls) to bold (a wide bib or colorful beads) and lots of places in between.

Layer up! A mix of necklaces in varied shapes and lengths can look festive. Stop at a few strands. You don't want to look weighed down.

A wide choker or bib demands attention and should be your sole statement maker. Forgo other jewelry when wearing such a fetching item.

An open neckline on your top highlights your glitzy accent. The same goes for a solid-color shirt.

A draping necklace is lovely with a long frock. Choose a shorter strand with higher hemlines.

Consider the vibe you are going for. Add colorful beads for a boho feel, silver chains for a touch of punk, or pearls for a prim and proper air.

Whether you prefer simple studs every day or dangly drops, earrings have a big impact on your outfit. Yes, they are relatively small, but they are in the direct line of vision of anyone you talk to, so they should be well considered.

Small studs are perfect if you like a tad of glitz and don't change them every day. Diamonds are the ultimate and go with everything, but pearls or gold or silver studs are just as versatile.

Chandelier earrings draw attention. Keep your accoutrements limited to these stunners; pass on a necklace, brooch, or bangles.

Dainty drop earrings are the middle ground between petite studs and major danglies. They also offer a way to work color into your look.

You don't have to have a major rock to indulge in an eye-catching ring. From classic gold bands to exotic stones, there are styles to suit all tastes and budgets. Use rings to make an even bigger statement every time you talk with your hands.

A gob-stopper-size ring is the ideal partner for your cocktail frock. Try one for day, too, when you're wearing basics.

Stack your rings (like these from Ipppolita) for a funky edge. To properly layer, choose ones that have flat edges or single stones and can be twisted to fit on top of each other.

Don't load up every finger. One adorned digit per hand looks best (especially with cocktail pieces), but max out at two each if you like to wear multiples.

When wearing an attention-getting ring, keep in mind people will look - which means your nails should be properly groomed.

Bracelets can be exotic, simple, or just exciting. They're all about adding extra oomph. Whether you stack them, opt for one wide cuff, or pick one filled with trinkets, they give your style personality.

Try loading up on an armful. Stacked bangles - especially gold pieces of varying sizes (like this chain bracelet from Ann Taylor Loft) - put a worldly spin on your style. Add a watch into the mix, but don't go so far that you are jangling everywhere you go.

Mixing material can look rich when wearing multiple bracelets, but keep it limited to one or two types.

Lots of bracelets calls for bare wrists. Wear short sleeves or roll up long ones to display your bijoux.

One wide cuff makes an impression. So, leave the rest of your look toned down. Cuffs can easily slide over a long-sleeved knit. It's a chic way to wear them.

You may think brooches are an outdated, fuddy-duddy take on jewelry, but a glamorous pin can enrich and enliven the most basic of clothes - and there are even edgy options like this tarantula brooch from Giorgio Armani.

Pin them on your masculine pieces, like blazers and button-ups, for a feminine flair.

Smaller styles look interesting when worn in groups. Choose pieces from similar genres - all deco, for example.

Expand beyond diamonds. Pins are chic in unique styles, like rosettes and ribbons.

Put them on in unusual places. A brooch doesn't have to be stuck on your lapel. Try one on the hip of your dress, to fasten your scarf, or as a closure for your cardigan.