Cufflinks, Pearls, and Personal Talismans—The Coolest Men’s Accessory Trends You’ll See in 2025
I don’t know about you, but I’m noticing big changes in how guys are accessorizing this year. The “rules” around men's jewelry are officially out, replaced by a new freedom to show off what really matters—whether that’s sharp style, a symbol that tells your story, or simply a love of cool, unusual materials.
If you’ve been keeping an eye on places like GQ, Vogue, The Guardian, or JCK Online lately, you know it’s an exciting time to be exploring men’s accessories.
Let’s get into what’s hot for 2025, and maybe even discover something you want to wear next.
Cufflinks: Not Just for Formal Wear Anymore
Everyone from high fashion runways to street style blogs is buzzing about cufflinks this year—and not just the old-school kind you’d borrow from your granddad. The cufflink is being totally reimagined.
Bold, oversized designs are taking the lead, sometimes with brightly colored stones or playful shapes that stand out. I’m seeing gemstone cufflinks (think sapphires, emeralds, or even onyx) taking the “wow” factor up a notch, while textured pieces—like brushed gold or etched sterling—keep things classy but still a little unexpected. For folks who aren’t afraid to get a couple laughs at a party, novelty cufflinks shaped like animals or pop culture icons are also in (according to recent roundups on GQ and The Jewelry Editor).
But if you’re more of a minimalist, don’t worry—sleek, barely-there metals are still trending for boardrooms and formal events alike. Some brands are even using cool tech, adding LED details for evening wear or experimenting with materials like carbon fiber and recycled metals for a nod to sustainability. It’s a big leap from the basic silver knots of a few years ago.
Pearls: Breaking All the Boundaries
Pearls have jumped the gender divide, and I am completely here for it. Once reserved for “ladies who lunch,” pearls are now showing up in men’s necklace stacks, bracelets, and even the occasional earring (nod to the stylists at Vogue for that inspiration).
But don’t visualize perfectly symmetrical, ultra-glossy pearl strands—this year’s look is far more relaxed. Guys are mixing baroque freshwater pearls with yellow or white gold chains (soft, 14-karat tones, nothing too blingy), stringing them on leather or silk cords, or even rocking pearls with bright beads for a playful, youthful vibe. Want to try it? Look up pearls layered with metals or earthy stones; that contrast is key.
It’s a cool way to add softness and sophistication to an outfit, and honestly, it just feels good to wear something with a bit of tradition and surprise at the same time.
Personal Talismans: Jewelry That Means Something
I talk to a lot of people in my shop about the jewelry they wear, and what I’m hearing lines up with what The Guardian and JCK Online are also reporting: personal talismans are bigger than ever. Instead of plain gold chains, men are choosing pendants with deep symbolism—maybe a luck charm, a religious emblem, or something that reminds them of a person or place.
Signet rings (sometimes engraved, sometimes set with vintage stones), amulets, and meaningful pendants are all part of the mix. They’re not just accessories; they’re shortcuts to stories and connections.
If you open your jewelry box, do you see something with a story behind it? I know I do.
Layering is huge here. Guys are stacking chains of different lengths and mixing metals for that “collected, not curated” effect. It’s less about matching and more about meaning—so don’t be afraid to put that inherited silver alongside a new yellow gold piece or a rustic leather strand.
Plus, materials matter: a pendant made from reclaimed wood, meteorite, or even a pebble found on a memorable trip lends individuality and a sustainable edge, which a lot of folks now value.
Unconventional Materials Make Accessories Pop
On that note: 2025 is all about sourcing the unusual. I’m seeing rings crafted from meteorite (yes, really), recycled whiskey barrel wood, tungsten carbide, dinosaur bone, or even antler. These materials tell their own stories, adding character and a little mystery to what you’re wearing.
JCK Online’s recent piece highlighted just how much interest there is in eco-friendly and exotic materials. Are you drawn to something offbeat, too? Pair a meteorite ring with a classic 1960s watch, or stack a wood-inlay band with gold or silver for a look that’s modern but grounded.
Geometric Designs and Layering Chains
Minimalist, geometric shapes are definitely having a moment. Angular pendants, chunky square rings, hexagonal cufflinks, and crisp, patterned bracelets look clean but still eye-catching (thanks for the inspo, GQ). It’s easy to dress these up or down, and they work whether you’re at a gallery opening or just grabbing coffee downtown.
Layering is key—think chains in mixed lengths or widths, paired together for a slightly “lived-in” effect. Leather necklaces are back on the scene, adding warmth and texture that contrasts against metal. How are you layering your jewelry right now? Sometimes just adding an extra chain or two can turn a T-shirt-and-jeans day into something that feels really put together.
Brooches and Earrings: Surprise Moves
I’ve got to admit, I smiled when The Jewellery Editor and Vogue both called brooches one of the coolest men’s accessories for 2025. Gone are the days when brooches were only for family weddings or royal lapels—now they’re cheeky, playful, or even a little punk. Pin one to your blazer, denim jacket, or even a beanie and see what happens—there’s definitely a conversation waiting to start.
Men’s earrings are also solidly mainstream now. Whether it’s a single diamond, a small gold hoop, or a geometric stud, earrings are an easy way to experiment without making a massive commitment to a new look.
Minimalism & Functionality Still Matter
Even with all these statement pieces, minimalism isn’t going anywhere. Spring roundups from The Guardian and GQ are full of pared-back, simple looks where one or two carefully chosen accessories do all the work. A slim gold band, a finely made watch, or a low-profile chain is sometimes all you need to elevate an outfit. If in doubt, go simple—then add one more piece if you want to push the envelope.
So, what’s on your wrist—or neck, or sleeve —right now?
Have you tried pearls, or gone for a bold cufflink lately? Whether you gravitate toward the meaningful or the playful, 2025 is hands-down the best year in ages to shake things up and make your jewelry deeply personal
Just keep expressing yourself, and never be afraid to break a rule or two.
Cheers!
Peter