Insiders' Fashion: Jewelry As Identity. Why The Most Personal Accessories Define Your Style

By Isabel Castrejón Pascacio

In a world where fashion trends shift at a rapid speed, jewelry remains one of the few elements of style that consistently carries deep personal significance. Unlike clothing, which can be seasonal, utilitarian, or trend-driven, jewelry often holds sentimental value, emotional history, and a sense of identity that transcends what’s merely fashionable. Jewelry is more than an accessory, it tells a story. Whether it’s a ring passed down through generations, a necklace bought during a transformative trip, or a bracelet gifted by a loved one, each piece becomes a reflection of who you are. It can signify milestones, beliefs, heritage, or simply the kind of beauty that resonates with your soul. This storytelling power makes jewelry a deeply personal part of how we present ourselves to the world.

Personal style is more than what you wear, it’s how you wear it. And at the core of that style is intention. Jewelry, when chosen personally and worn with meaning, creates visual anchors that define and distinguish your look. A minimalist might wear a delicate gold chain every day; a maximalist may stack bold rings and mix metals with abandon. Both are making intentional choices that tell others: this is who I am.

Your style should evolve with you, and jewelry allows that evolution to happen subtly and authentically. Changing the way you layer necklaces or choosing a new statement earring can shift your entire aesthetic without replacing your entire wardrobe.

Unlike fast fashion, jewelry invites emotional attachment. You remember where you were when you got it, who gave it to you, or what moment it celebrates. That emotional tie is what elevates it from accessory to artifact. The right piece doesn’t just match your outfit, it matches your mood, your memories, a moment in your life.

While trendy costume pieces have their place, personal jewelry is often an investment, not just in money, but in meaning. Choosing or designing a piece that feels like you is an act of self-expression and self-respect. It’s not about impressing others but about affirming yourself. You can truly get to know someone’s personality by looking through their jewelry collection.

One of the most powerful ways to make your jewelry truly personal is by buying from small or local jewelry designers. These independent makers often pour their creativity and individuality into every piece, resulting in designs that are far more distinctive than mass-produced alternatives. When you shop small, you’re not only supporting craftsmanship and ethical production, you’re also curating a collection that feels original and reflective of your personal values. These pieces often come with stories of their own, enriching your style with authenticity and adding layers of meaning that can't be found in a mainstream brand. Maybe you don’t know exactly what your jewelry style is yet, and that’s okay. Discovering your personal style is a journey, one that evolves over time through exploration and experimentation. Simply walking around your town and visiting local shops can help you discover what you're naturally drawn to. It's a great way to begin your accessory journey, especially with local artisans who are willing to listen and collaborate. These relationships can become more than transactional, they can be creative partnerships between artist and customer.

Here are some standout local jewelry brands that cater to a variety of tastes:

Barbosa Collection is ideal for the bohemian and confident. Known for its intricate, gold-toned designs, the brand embraces a baroque aesthetic that echoes the spirit of San Miguel de Allende. Every piece makes a statement, ensuring you stand out with elegance.

Crystal Victoria Designs appeals to the bold and artsy. With expert silverworkand a constant exploration of enameling techniques, her designs play with geometry and color in playful way.

Lunática Jewelry is perfect for those who lean toward contemporary elegance. Whether you're dressing minimally or accessorizing a bold outfit with pearls, her pieces add effortless sophistication. Head designer Jade Muriel focuses on creating organic forms that feel like natural extensions of the body.

Jewelry should never be an afterthought. It should be personal, intentional, and central to how you express yourself. In a sea of trends, it’s the deeply personal touches that make your style unforgettable. Whether you wear a single cherished piece every day or rotate through a curated collection, your jewelry should always tell your story.

Isabel is an art history professor at the UNAM as well as founder of WearSanMiguel, and organizes Fashion Parade, the largest yearly fashion show in San Miguel