What’s Hot in Gen Z Jewelry: From Kitsch to K-pop-Inspired Pieces

Gen Z is redefining the rules of fashion — and jewelry is at the centre of this self-expression revolution. For this digital-native generation, jewelry is no longer just an accessory. It’s a personal statement, a mood, a memory, or even a meme.

From chaotic kitsch to clean-core minimalism, Gen Z jewelry trends in 2025 are louder, bolder, and more experimental than ever. Whether it’s K-pop idol-inspired chains or nostalgic Y2K charms, Gen Z is embracing a blend of irony, individuality, and identity.

So what’s hot right now in Gen Z jewelry? Let’s dive in.

 1. Kitsch Jewelry: The Rise of “Ugly Cute” Aesthetics

Think gummy bear earrings, rubber duck rings, beaded phone chains, smiley face necklaces — and yes, even pasta-shaped charms.

Gen Z is obsessed with kitsch jewelry, also called “ugly-cute” or dopamine dressing accessories. These playful, over-the-top designs tap into childhood nostalgia and challenge traditional fashion norms.

Trending Kitsch Jewelry Pieces:

•Beaded chokers with emojis

•Plastic rings in neon colors

•DIY-style friendship bracelets

•Charms shaped like frogs, food, or flowers

2. K-pop-Inspired Jewelry: Idols Set the Standard

K-pop isn’t just a genre — it’s a global fashion movement. Gen Z fans are taking cues from their favorite idols like BTS, Blackpink, Stray Kids, and NewJeans when it comes to jewelry styling.

Common K-pop Jewelry Styles:

•Layered silver chains (often worn over oversized streetwear)

•Bold ear cuffs and asymmetrical earrings

•Pearl chokers for men and women

•Cross pendants and lock-shaped charms

Whether on stage or in fan edits, these pieces scream edgy, gender-fluid, and fashion-forward — exactly what Gen Z loves.

 3. Modular & Stackable Pieces: Mix, Match, Repeat

Customization is king for Gen Z, and modular jewelry offers exactly that. From build-your-own charm bracelets to stackable rings and earrings, these pieces allow wearers to express a new vibe every day.

Platforms like Yunova Lifestyle are tapping into this trend with no-MOQ custom designs, letting users create exactly what they envision.

Popular Modular Concepts:

•Interchangeable pendants on chokers

•Buildable bracelets with sliding charms

•Stackable midi-rings in mixed metals

•Clip-on wallet chains and eyewear chains

4. Gender-Neutral Jewelry: Breaking the Binary

Forget “his” and “hers.” Today’s Gen Z jewelry trends are fluid, unisex, and experimental. With growing focus on inclusivity, Gen Z shoppers are buying jewelry that reflects their identity — not their gender.

Top Gender-Neutral Jewelry Trends:

•Minimalist signet rings

•Chunky chain necklaces

•Piercing-style ear cuffs

•Matte-finish bangles

Many up-and-coming brands, including Yunova, are designing collections that cater to all identities — a smart move, considering how Gen Z leads the charge on gender inclusivity.

5. Fidget & Mood Jewelry: Where Function Meets Fashion

For a generation navigating anxiety and overstimulation, fidget jewelry and mood rings are emerging as both stylish and therapeutic.

Popular Functional Jewelry:

•Spinner rings (a modern anxiety aid)

•Clickable earrings

•Color-changing mood rings

•Stretchy kinetic bracelets

These aren’t just novelties — they’re statement pieces with a purpose, blending self-care with style.

Bonus: Influencer-Driven Trends You Can’t Miss

Gen Z is deeply influenced by TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest. Jewelry trends often go viral overnight — like:

•Jelly rings worn by Doja Cat