Your Guide to Holiday Jewellery: Comfort, Style and Sparkle in the Sun
From nautical beads to evening sparkle — here’s what to wear (and how to care for it) on your summer break.
Packing for a holiday isn’t just about clothes and sun cream — the right jewellery can make every outfit feel complete, whether you’re relaxing by the sea, exploring a new town, or heading out for dinner. Holiday jewellery should be comfortable, heat-friendly, easy to wear and even easier to love.
This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the best holiday jewellery for women, men and children — including nautical and floral styles, tips for cleaning and caring for your jewellery in the sun, and pieces that suit warm-weather dressing from day to night.
What Jewellery Works Best in Hot Weather?
Heat, sweat, and sunscreen can be tough on jewellery — especially if it’s heavy, contains sensitive metals, or isn’t designed for all-day wear. That’s why summer jewellery should be lightweight, hypoallergenic, and made from materials that are comfortable against the skin.
Wooden beads, resin, clay, and semi-precious stones like jasper or amazonite are all perfect for hot climates. They don’t heat up against the skin like metal can, and their textured finishes give off an earthy, relaxed feel that pairs beautifully with linen, cotton and swimwear.
Elasticated bead bracelets are also a great option for warmer weather. They’re easy to slip on and off, don’t require fiddly clasps, and can flex with your wrist throughout the day. Whether you’re sightseeing or lying poolside, they add interest without effort.
Nautical and Floral Jewellery: Perfect Summer Styles
Holidays and nautical jewellery are a natural pair. Think shell tones, ocean blues, rope textures and sea-glass inspired beads — all of which evoke calm coastal energy. Nautical bracelets made with wooden beads, turquoise stones or knotted cords are particularly popular for beach days and boat trips. They’re unfussy but stylish, and feel right at home with sun-bleached fabrics and natural textures.
On the other hand, floral jewellery brings a soft, romantic tone to your summer outfits. Resin studs with pressed flowers, ceramic beads with floral patterns, or charm bracelets featuring petal motifs add a playful, nostalgic touch that pairs well with floaty dresses or floral skirts. These are perfect for garden lunches, day trips and relaxed summer evenings.
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How to Care for Your Jewellery on Holiday
Jewellery and holidays don’t always mix well — sand, sea salt, sun cream and sweat can all dull your favourite pieces. But with a little extra care, you can keep them sparkling throughout your trip.
Top jewellery care tips for summer:
Avoid applying sunscreen or body lotion while wearing jewellery. Wait until it’s fully absorbed before putting on bracelets or necklaces, especially if they include resin or metal.
Take jewellery off before swimming, especially in salty or chlorinated water. It can tarnish metals and affect elastic or coated finishes.
Store pieces in a soft pouch or small case to avoid scratches and tangles, especially if you’re travelling.
Wipe jewellery gently with a soft cloth at the end of the day to remove sweat, oils and sunscreen residue. A gentle baby wipe works well for wooden and stone beads.
Holiday jewellery doesn’t need to be precious — but a bit of care can keep your favourites looking their best long after the tan fades.
Holiday Jewellery for Evenings Out
Once the sun sets, your holiday jewellery can take on a new sparkle. For evening dinners or drinks, opt for bolder pieces that catch the light — think gold-toned metals, shimmering beads, or statement earrings.
A pair of resin drop earrings flecked with gold or pearl is perfect for elevating a maxi dress. Layered bracelets with semi-precious stones add relaxed glamour to a sleeveless blouse. A chunky statement necklace can dress up even the simplest outfit when you want to feel a little more put-together without packing heels.
The key is to keep it comfortable — even on warm evenings. Look for pieces that are still hypoallergenic and light enough to wear for hours. Resin and coated stainless steel offer shine without the weight, and soft-stretch bracelets won’t feel tight as your skin naturally warms up.
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Children’s Jewellery for Summer Holidays
For little ones, summer is full of excitement, ice cream and adventure. Jewellery should be fun, practical and completely safe. Look for kids’ jewellery that’s elasticated or adjustable, made from soft materials like wood or resin, and free from sharp edges.
Brightly coloured beads, flower charms or animal-themed bracelets are a lovely way for children to feel included in the holiday fun — whether at a family wedding or a beach picnic. Choose hypoallergenic options wherever possible, especially if your child has sensitive skin or will be wearing the jewellery for long days in the sun.
And remember: simple designs are best. They’ll be easy to clean, easy to wear, and more likely to survive the bumpy ride home in a suitcase pocket.
Men’s Jewellery: Wooden Bead Bracelets and Natural Tones
Men’s jewellery is often overlooked on holiday — but a few well-chosen pieces can enhance any look. Wooden bead bracelets are a great starting point. They’re comfortable, durable, and strike the perfect balance between rugged and refined.
Pair a single strand with a linen shirt or stack a few neutral-toned styles for an effortless layered look. Wooden bracelets in darker shades like teak or walnut are great for evening, while lighter beads like ash or olive wood suit daywear.
For men who prefer something with a little more meaning, consider semi-precious stone bracelets with grounding stones like lava rock, agate or tiger’s eye. These add subtle depth and make for a great travel keepsake.
Jewellery That Moves With You
When it comes to holiday jewellery, flexibility is everything. Choose pieces that can take you from breakfast to beach to sunset cocktails without needing to be swapped out every few hours.
Think natural textures, relaxed silhouettes, and tactile finishes. Handmade items often feel more personal and are usually made in small batches, meaning you’re wearing something unique. Plus, you’re less likely to be wearing the same earrings as everyone else by the pool.
Avoid jewellery that’s too delicate or precious to enjoy — holiday jewellery should be joyful, easy and expressive, not something you’re constantly worrying about.
Final Thoughts
Holiday jewellery is about capturing the feeling of freedom, fun and a slower pace of life. Whether you love nautical charm bracelets, floral resin studs, semi-precious stone accents or wooden bead designs for men, there’s something for everyone in the summer sun.
Choose hypoallergenic, lightweight materials, look after them with care, and you’ll return home with more than just tan lines — you’ll have wearable memories of where you’ve been.
Whether you’re packing for a city break, a week by the sea or just some sunny days at home, let your jewellery reflect the mood: relaxed, personal, and full of warmth.
