The Rise of Gender-Neutral Jewelry in Global Retail

The jewelry industry has always reflected broader cultural shifts — from the opulence of royalty to the rebellion of youth, from tradition to minimalism. Today, we’re witnessing one of the most transformative changes in recent retail history: the rise of gender-neutral jewelry.

Once rigidly categorized into “men’s” and “women’s” sections, jewelry is now embracing a fluid identity, thanks largely to shifting societal norms and the influence of younger generations — particularly Gen Z and Millennials. For jewelry retailers, this moment offers both creative freedom and commercial opportunity.

Let’s explore why gender-neutral jewelry is booming, how global retailers are adapting, and what you can do to design, market, and sell for the new age of inclusivity.

Why Gender-Neutral Jewelry Is on the Rise

1. Changing Cultural Norms

Around the world, gender identity and self-expression are being understood in broader, more inclusive ways. This shift isn’t just social — it’s shaping consumer behavior. More people are rejecting the idea that certain styles or materials are reserved for one gender.

In fact, a 2023 study by McKinsey & Company revealed that 48% of Gen Z consumers prefer brands that don’t classify products by gender. For jewelry, this opens the door to creative designs that can be worn by anyone, regardless of how they identify.

2. Fashion Influencers & Celebrities Breaking Norms

From Harry Styles rocking pearl necklaces to Jaden Smith in skirts and Bad Bunny mixing bold accessories with streetwear — mainstream icons are redefining gender norms. This cultural shift is fueling demand for pieces that are fluid in form, bold in aesthetic, and free of gendered assumptions.

These styles often include chunky rings, chain-link necklaces, ear cuffs, bold cuffs, and layered designs — none of which scream “male” or “female,” but instead celebrate individual taste.

3. The Power of Personal Identity

Jewelry has always been personal, but today, it’s also political and emotional. Consumers are using accessories not just to decorate but to define themselves. That includes pushing past gender labels and choosing jewelry that aligns with how they feel, not how they’re categorized.

This shift has redefined demand — functionality, emotional resonance, symbolism, and individuality now matter more than gender-assigned marketing.

What Makes Jewelry “Gender-Neutral”?

Gender-neutral jewelry isn’t about creating bland, unisex designs. It’s about inclusivity, flexibility, and freedom in how pieces are styled and worn.

Some common traits include:

• Clean, minimal shapes like bars, bands, spheres, and geometric forms
• Neutral metals like sterling silver, stainless steel, and gold vermeil
• Adjustable pieces that aren’t tied to sizing stereotypes
• Layerable, stackable designs that allow for personalized expression
• Muted or versatile colors, although bold and bright palettes are also embraced by some brands

At Nakassi, we’ve seen rising demand from retailers for custom designs that defy gender boundaries — especially in categories like rings, chain bracelets, pendant necklaces, and ear cuffs.

Global Retailers Embracing the Shift

Leading fashion houses and indie designers alike are riding this trend:

• Gucci, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co. have all released gender-fluid collections or marketed existing collections without labeling.
• Emerging brands like Bleue Burnham, Tom Wood, and Hatton Labs are carving out niches in the genderless jewelry space with bold, architectural forms.
• Retailers like SSENSE and Farfetch are curating their sites to allow jewelry shopping by style, not gender.

This shift is not about abandoning traditional customers — it’s about expanding reach, tapping into new demographics, and reflecting today’s cultural values.

What Jewelry Retailers Can Learn (and Do)

1. Rethink Product Categorization

If your eCommerce store still divides jewelry into “Men” and “Women” sections, consider reworking your navigation. Create categories based on style, material, or occasion instead.

Consumers should feel free to browse without feeling like they’re in the “wrong” section.

2. Invest in Versatile Design

Design collections that can appeal across the spectrum. This doesn’t mean sacrificing aesthetic — it means focusing on universal appeal through thoughtful craftsmanship.

Nakassi offers custom jewelry manufacturing services that allow retailers to create bespoke, gender-inclusive collections with the flexibility to adjust sizing, finishes, and design elements to suit diverse audiences.

3. Use Inclusive Marketing

Visuals matter. Show your products worn by models of different identities, styled in various ways. Let consumers see themselves reflected in your brand.

Use product descriptions that emphasize mood, inspiration, or occasion rather than targeting a specific gender (e.g., “Statement ring for bold self-expression” instead of “Men’s ring”).

4. Offer Customization & Personalization

Gen Z and Millennial shoppers love pieces that speak to them personally. Offer engraving, custom length options, mix-and-match charms, or curated sets.

Our team at Nakassi supports bulk customization, making it easy for retailers to launch limited-edition drops or personalization-based campaigns that appeal to gender-fluid buyers.

5. Embrace Smaller Sizes for Bigger Impact

Not every piece has to be bold to be gender-neutral. Many buyers look for understated elegance — simple band rings, flat curb chains, or minimalist pendants.

That’s why it’s essential to offer modular designs and options across size ranges, so customers can wear what fits their body and their taste.

Future Outlook: Not Just a Trend — A Transformation

The gender-neutral wave isn’t a passing fad. It’s part of a larger movement toward inclusive, conscious, and customer-led retail. Jewelry, as a symbol of identity and self-expression, is at the heart of that shift.

Stat Watch:
According to a 2024 Euromonitor report, global demand for gender-neutral accessories is expected to grow by 22% annually through 2027 — driven largely by urban Gen Z and Millennial buyers.

Retailers who get ahead of the curve today will not only build stronger brand loyalty but also capture a broader, more inclusive market.

Final Thoughts

As identity and fashion continue to evolve, gender-neutral jewelry represents the future of retail — flexible, expressive, and meaningful. For retailers, this is a chance to break the mold, expand audiences, and create more inclusive and profitable product lines.

At Nakassi, we help brands and retailers bring these visions to life through custom jewelry manufacturing, combining global trend insights with ethical production and design versatility.

Whether you’re launching your first gender-neutral line or expanding your current collection, we’re here to support your next big move.

FAQs

Q. What materials work best for gender-neutral jewelry?
Sterling silver, stainless steel, titanium, and gold vermeil offer both a universal appeal and durability, making them ideal for gender-fluid collections.

Q. How can I test the market for gender-neutral jewelry before launching a full line?
Start with a capsule collection of versatile designs — rings, pendants, and chains — and measure engagement. Nakassi supports low MOQ manufacturing, ideal for testing market segments.

Q. Can I offer personalized options for gender-fluid buyers?
Absolutely. Personalization is highly effective in this space — from initials and symbols to chain length and finishes. Nakassi supports customized bulk jewelry production with flexible specs.

Brijesh

Brijesh brings a decade of experience in SEO and a deep love for jewelry to his writing. He excels at creating content that shines both on the page and in search engines, ensuring every story about gems and craftsmanship reaches the right audience.