Metallics are having their moment – and they aren’t reserved solely for the festive season. Whether you choose a silver bandeau on holiday, a gold crossbody bag at brunch, or a bronze bangle to dress up a black maxi dress, the metallic fashion trend has officially gone mainstream.
But let’s be honest – we know that diving into metallics can feel risky, especially if you usually stick to athleisure. The good news? Metallics don’t have to be scary. When styled right, they’re surprisingly versatile, adding just the right amount of shine without overwhelming your outfit.
Whether you’re looking to embrace the LBD and metallic bag trend or you’re ready to rock a full-on chrome look, we’ve got you. Here’s how to wear metallics in a way that feels modern, wearable, and completely ‘you’ – without feeling like you’re blinding the entire room.
Why metallics are having their moment
Everywhere, from TikTok to the high street to runways, metallics are everywhere. Designers have brought back liquid-metal dresses, influencers are styling silver trousers with trainers, and metallic bags are practically a staple for evening events.
Metallics instantly elevate any outfit. They’re bold without being fussy, make a statement without overcomplicating your look, and bring the “main character energy” you didn’t know you needed.
Start small with metallic bags and accessories
Not sure where to start? If starting with a gold maxi-skirt feels a little too bold, start with accessories. They’re the easiest (and chicest) way to test out the metallic fashion trend, while still staying true to your style. Accessories like bags, shoes, and jewellery bring just the right hit of shine without overpowering your whole look.
A silver crossbody adds instant edge to a laid-back jeans-and-trainers combo, while a gold clutch is practically built for cocktail hour. Metallic bags are versatile in a way sequins never will be: they work day and night, with casual fits, everyday glam, or evening attire.
The beauty of metallic bags is how versatile they are. Daytime? Style with basics to add polish. Night out? A metallic clutch = instant glam.
- Daytime: Pair a metallic tote with denim and a white tee for an effortless yet fashionable look.
- Evening: Switch to a clutch or mini-bag that shines just enough to complement your outfit.
- Weekend: A metallic crossbody adds a playful energy to casual brunch looks.
Shoes are another subtle way to bring in some shine. Silver ballet flats, bronze sandals, or metallic loafers add polish to the most understated outfit. Other low-commitment metallics include belts, jewellery, or even hair accessories like a silver claw clip. Accessories let you dip a toe into the trend without diving all the way in.
Everyday metallics
For everyday wear, metallics should complement your look, not dominate it – think minimalist vibes with one metallic statement. Think of metallics as your outfit’s energy boost, bringing life to simple pieces without tipping into ‘extra’ territory.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Pair silver trousers with a chunky knit jumper and trainers.
- Wear a bronze bomber jacket layered over a white tee and wide-leg jeans. This is effortlessly cool – especially when paired with trainers or ankle boots.
- Try a metallic pleated skirt with a plain oversized hoodie for that effortless chic vibe.
The trick with metallics in the daytime is balance, working best when they’re the only bold element. If you’re wearing metallic bottoms, keep your top minimal. If you’ve got a statement jacket, pair it with understated basics.
After-dark drama
If there’s one place metallics feel right at home, it’s after dark. But the trick to pulling them off? Think sleek glow over glitter overload. You want to turn heads, not blind people under the club lights.
Start with a liquid-metal slip dress – the kind that clings in all the right places and catches the light with every move. Pair it with strappy heels and minimal jewellery, and you’ve got instant main-character energy. Not into dresses? A gold metallic blazer worn over a black mini dress or tailored trousers brings the same wow-factor.
Metallic skirts also work like a dream for night-out dressing. Try a silver mini with knee-high cowboy boots, or a pleated metallic midi with a slinky top. Either way, the shine does the talking, so keep your accessories minimal.
Top tip: Grounding is everything. Black, white, and neutral tones stop your metallics from becoming overwhelming. Beauty-wise, less is more – glossy skin, slicked-back hair, or a red lip keeps the look modern, not messy.
Mix your metals
Do you remember the fashion rule you used to hear about not mixing metals? Ignore it. Gold, silver, and bronze complement each other well.
Think of it like layering clothes and textures: combining different metallic tones adds depth and makes your look feel intentional, not accidental. A pair of chunky gold hoops, a silver chain necklace, and a bronze belt? That’s not clashing, that’s curated.
Here are some of our favourite combinations:
- Jewellery layering: Stack silver bangles with gold rings, then tie them together with one standout piece – like a bold watch.
- Clothing combos: A bronze skirt with a silver bag might be unexpected, but it’s certainly chic.
- Accessory play: Pair a gold belt buckle, silver bag strap, and mixed-metal jewellery for a deliberate look.
The secret is balance. Keep your outfit simple – think denim, black tailoring, or a crisp white shirt – and let the metallics do the talking. Sticking to clean shapes and minimalist silhouettes ensures your look stays polished, not chaotic.
Metallics don’t have to equal over-the-top sparkle. From a sleek silver clutch to classic gold hoops, there are plenty of ways to shine without going into full glitter overload.
And if you want to nail the metallic trend without the fast-fashion guilt, second-hand is your best friend. Pre-loved metallics are not only planet-friendly, they’re way more unique.
Shop Reliked’s full collection to shine sustainably.
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