Goodbye, Gold Jewelry? Budget-Friendly Silver Is Now ‘Cooler, Sharper and More Fashion-Forward.’

Silver jewelry can look grown-up, even luxurious, if you wear it like this.

Jul 29, 2025 - 11:18
Goodbye, Gold Jewelry? Budget-Friendly Silver Is Now ‘Cooler, Sharper and More Fashion-Forward.’

By The Wall Street Journal | July 18, 2025

In a striking shift across the global fashion scene, silver jewelry is enjoying a major comeback—challenging gold’s long-standing dominance. Once considered the humbler sibling to gold, silver is now being embraced by designers, stylists, and shoppers alike for its cooler tone, architectural edge, and budget-friendly appeal.

“With silver, there’s a sharpness and clarity that feels more contemporary,” said one fashion editor quoted in the report. “It looks cooler, sharper, and more fashion-forward.”

This renewed attention comes amid surging gold prices, making silver the go-to for those seeking both value and style. Designers like Chanel, Alexander McQueen, and Juju Vera have all featured silver in their recent collections, from chunky cuffs and sculptural rings to minimalist chains and oversized hoops. The look? Edgy, futuristic, and distinctly 2025.

Retailers are taking note. Brands like Ritani report significant increases in silver jewelry sales, particularly pieces under $500. According to market analysts, silver jewelry is expected to grow at over 6% annually through 2027, driven by its affordability, versatility, and strong aesthetic appeal.

Silver also made waves on the runways during Spring/Summer 2025 Fashion Week, with brands like Coach and Carolina Herrera highlighting bold silver accessories styled with layered looks and monochrome palettes. Fashion insiders recommend pairing silver with crisp whites, blacks, and vibrant jewel tones—or mixing metals for a high-fashion twist.

The shift is not just stylistic—it’s financial. With silver prices rising to over $37 per ounce in June 2025, the material is gaining traction as both an accessible luxury and a smart investment. In a world increasingly driven by conscious spending and minimalism, silver hits the sweet spot.

Whether it’s a sculptural earring, a statement cuff, or a stack of slender rings, silver is reclaiming its spot in the jewelry spotlight—and it’s doing it with style.