Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand will share the top 30 fashion and beauty finds on their current wish list.
N o matter the trends , no matter the season, and no matter the occasion, the one thing that always stands the test of time is my adoration for unique jewelry. While it’s possible to regret adopting that new trend or for the newest piece of clothing to become lackluster, the wardrobe staple that never loses its shine is jewelry. I’ve amassed quite the collection of pieces. In fact, some loved ones may argue that I have too much jewelry. Despite the lack of space in my jewelry box, I always seem to find new items that I can’t stop thinking about. Yes, some are dreamy diamond pieces, but as an editor, I know that there is a plethora of affordable costume and demi-fine jewelry brands that make pieces worthy of any collection. Don’t believe me? Ahead, I’ve rounded up the best affordable, unique jewelry under $300. Some are pieces I own, some I dream of, and some could be yours…
I own this choker, and I can attest that it doesn’t get more quirky than a custom necklace.
These earrings look like they could be in a sculptural garden.
I just got these Baby Bok Choy Earrings, and let me tell you—the besties are jealous.
My partner recently bought me my first pair of Jacquemus earrings, but I still have my eye on this single Jacquemus bucket hat stud.
The first time I spotted this “unfollow” necklace in my feed, I immediately followed the jewelry brand Joey Baby. As I am a social-media addict, this necklace gets me.
I’m also guilty of owning these cute Martini huggie studs. Can you blame me, though? They’re a SATC-fan essential.
Anklets have been trending for a hot minute, so I couldn’t think of a better way to adopt the trend than this chic, affordable version.
These earrings exude main-character energy.
Maybe I’ve been heavily influenced by TikTok, but acrylic rings have been on my mind and on my shopping list.
Who said hoop earrings had to be boring? I love that these 14k gold-plated hoop earrings give the illusion of having multiple piercings.
Fishes on Tinder deserve a swipe left. Fish earrings, however? That’s a different story.
I own these earrings, and I don’t think I own a more unique piece of jewelry. The pairing of textured 22k gold-plated bronze and pearl still takes my breath away every time I look at them.
Yes, I have an addiction to pearl necklaces, but who wouldn’t want one with a hand-painted evil eye? Maybe it will ward off some of those side-eyes I get for having too much jewelry.
Leave it to Cult Gaia to create the most stunning floral-inspired earrings I’ve ever seen in my life.
Okay, hear me out. You can wear this as a belly chain in the summer and as a belt in the fall. It’s the most unique, trend -forward jewelry piece you’ll ever own.
Chains are a staple in any jewelry collection, but this brass mixed-metal rope chain is not your essential necklace (in the best way).
Not to play favorites with my jewelry collection (they’re all my babies), but this single earring from the AAPI-owned jewelry brand Svnr is up there for me. I love how unique it is and that it’s made in NYC from upcycled materials.
Have you ever seen such a unique ring? It checks all the boxes.
I can imagine Machine Gun Kelly and Megan Fox sharing this necklace, and I’m honestly not mad about it.
Not to sound like a broken record, but these 14k gold-plated spiral earrings give a whole new meaning to wearable art.
I’m obsessed with gemstones at the moment because they can be so unique. Case in point: this labradorite ring.
Someone send help—my jaw is still on the floor because of this ear cuff.
Admittedly I’m not a bracelet person, but this curved cuff has me reconsidering my stance.
I’m not over produce-inspired trinkets, especially when they’re as cute as these mismatched peach and pearl hoop earrings.
The warped texture on this chain-link pendant necklace is out of this world.
Tell me that these are not the most unique pearl earrings you’ve ever seen. From the sculptural silhouette to the mix of blue beads, shimmering crystals, and faux pearls, everything about them makes them a jewelry collector’s dream.
Now, this is a ring. The melted texture on this 24k gold-vermeil ring has me feeling things.
Only ’90s kids can remember when we all were obsessed with mesh accessories. Today, the grown-up version of our favorite childhood trend comes in the form of earrings thanks to Paco Rabanne.
Bamboo hoop earrings in sterling silver? Sign me up.
Are they pencil shavings, or are they recycled gold-plated earrings? I’m not sure, but either way, I need them in my life.
Next: The Only 6 Jewelry Trends That Matter This Summer