With more than a century of a legacy, Robbins Brothers Fine Jewelers has maintained a strong foothold as one of the most trusted and sought after retailers in the jewelry business. As such, they’ve become well attuned to the needs of today’s modern shopper, and the ever-evolving trends. From how to pair the right metal with your skin tone to the type of makeup to pair with your diamonds, Robbins Brothers knows a thing or two about sophisticated elegance. With the holidays fast approaching, and the many parties that go with them, we sat down with Sue Hopeman (VP of Merchandising) and Kris Land (VP of Marketing) to learn the tips and tricks for mastering that perfect holiday look.
The holidays are fast approaching, and all the parties that go with them. What trends should we watch for this season?
Sue Hopeman, VP of Merchandising for Robbins Brothers Fine Jewelers:
This season highlights bold, high-polish gold and the continued popularity of yellow gold across rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Layering is a major focus, with people mixing gold and diamonds in creative new ways to build personal stacks that feel modern and meaningful. Personalization is playing a big role, from layered chains to curated ring stacks that reflect individual style. Tennis jewelry continues to surge. Both bracelets and necklaces are being worn as everyday luxury pieces and added into layered looks for a polished finish. Fancy-cut diamonds are another key trend, with shapes like ovals, pears, emeralds, and marquises giving pieces more dimension and individuality.
What tips do you have for selecting jewelry that flatters skin tone?
Kris Land, VP of Marketing for Robbins Brothers Fine Jewelers:
Start by identifying your natural undertone. Cool undertones (pink, red, or blue) shine in white gold, platinum, or silver. Warm undertones (yellow, peach, or golden) pair beautifully with yellow gold. Neutral undertones generally wear both metals well. Rose gold is widely flattering across almost all skin tones. Olive and richly melanated complexions bring their own beautiful diversity. Yellow gold, rose gold, and richly colored gemstones often enhance natural depth and warmth. Those with cool or neutral undertones, even within deeper skin tones, may favor white gold or platinum or love mixing metals for contrast.
For someone who prefers a natural makeup look, what jewelry transitions best from day to night?
K.L.:
Pearls are ideal because they add softness and radiance without overpowering the face. They pair beautifully with diamonds and move easily from day to night. Small or medium hoops are another strong option for effortless polish. Mixing metals works well too. Layering yellow and white gold adds a modern, versatile touch that transitions from casual to dressy without changing pieces.
For those who love a bold red lip, how should jewelry be paired for sophisticated elegance?
K.L.:
A bold red lip looks best when jewelry supports rather than competes with the statement. Diamonds complement any red tone, but keep pieces refined. Solitaire studs or slender drop earrings create balance. Minimalist settings in white gold or platinum reflect light beautifully without drawing focus away from the face. Skip the necklace and keep attention near the face with simple earrings. A statement cuff or standout cocktail ring adds glamour without overwhelming the look.
What trends are you seeing with nails and jewelry?
K.L.:
There’s a clear crossover between manicure trends and jewelry styling. Three-dimensional nail accents such as crystals, pearls, and gemstones are popular. Chrome and metallic finishes pair well with gold or silver jewelry. Layered jewelry remains strong, and many style layered rings and bracelets alongside manicures for a cohesive look. Balance matters. Bold nail art pairs best with minimal jewelry, while layered jewelry looks best with simple or chrome nails.
Is it tacky to pair nail art with bling?
K.L.:
Not at all. When paired thoughtfully, jewelry and nail art complement each other. Both are personal expressions of style. For a polished look, subtle nail accents like clean white details or a hint of sparkle work beautifully with jewelry. A touch of shimmer on nails can enhance the shine of rings and bracelets while still feeling refined.
Why are heirloom-inspired engagement rings making a comeback?
S.H.:
People are seeking pieces with meaning. Vintage-influenced designs feel personal, symbolic, and connected to tradition. Couples want rings that tell a story and feel like future heirlooms. Details like milgrain, filigree, and distinctive silhouettes make these pieces unique and emotionally significant, aligning with the broader trend of jewelry that carries sentiment beyond aesthetics.
How have the needs of today’s modern shopper evolved?
K.L.:
Modern shoppers value personalization and transparency. They want expert guidance while feeling free to explore styles at their own pace. They expect a warm, welcoming environment where they can ask questions, compare designs, and understand craftsmanship. Today’s customer looks for a meaningful experience, not just a transaction, and appreciates a jeweler who helps them find something that reflects their individual story.
What makes your new Pasadena prototype showroom so special?
K.L.:
The Pasadena showroom was designed to redefine the jewelry shopping experience. The open layout and natural light create an inviting atmosphere. Private diamond viewing rooms allow guests to slow down and explore comfortably. Every detail supports discovery, ease, and personal connection. The focus is on helping guests find pieces that feel meaningful, with an experience that matches the importance of their celebration.
What advice do you have for someone with an engagement ring that doesn’t suit their taste?
S.H.:
There are many ways to transform a ring so it feels fully aligned with your style. It can be reimagined with a new setting or completely redesigned using a sketch, photo, or reference image. Many couples reuse original diamonds or metals so the sentimental core stays intact while the design evolves. Robbins Brothers excels here. Our in-house design studio works closely with couples to turn a ring that feels not quite right into one that feels completely their own. If a ring doesn’t match your taste, start with open communication. We guide the process so the piece reflects your story together. An engagement ring is meant for a lifetime. There’s no reason to settle. If it can be imagined, we can create it.
What men’s pieces complete a polished look?
S.H.:
Men’s jewelry is having a major moment. Rings, bracelets, chains, and gem-accented pieces are part of everyday style now. A versatile watch collection is still the foundation. A classic work watch, a refined evening watch, and a relaxed weekend watch cover all bases. Watches pair beautifully with gold or silver bracelets for an elevated layer. Neck chains in gold or silver remain popular, with or without pendants. Rings beyond the wedding band such as signets, textured bands, and mixed metals add personality. The modern approach is simple. Choose a few key pieces that feel authentic, wear them often, and let them become part of your personal aesthetic.
Specializing in lab-grown and natural diamonds, bespoke designer jewelry, watches, and heirloom revivals, Robbins Brothers Fine Jewelers stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and trust. Their commitment goes beyond selling jewelry. It’s about creating experiences that celebrate individuality and life’s most meaningful milestones. Whether you’re curating your holiday glam or designing a future heirloom, Robbins Brothers offers artistry, expertise, and a sense of family that transforms every purchase into a lasting memory.
Stay Connected: https://www.robbinsbrothers.com/pasadena | Instagram @robbinsbrothers | TikTok @robbinsbrothersjewelers
Visit the new Pasadena flagship showroom at 987 E. Colorado Blvd, or find a location near you online. You can also find other stores near you by visiting their website.
