How to Wear a Tennis Bracelet with a Watch
We’re often asked how best to style different pieces of jewellery, and one question that comes up time and again is:
Can you wear a tennis bracelet with a watch?
The short answer is yes — absolutely. And when styled thoughtfully, it can look elegant, modern and effortlessly chic.
Below, we’ll explain how to wear a tennis bracelet with a watch, what (if anything) to avoid, and how to make the combination work for your personal style.
Are There Any “Rules”?
Traditionally, jewellery styling followed fairly strict guidelines. A watch was worn on the left wrist, and any bracelet or bangle on the right, to create balance.
Today, those rules no longer apply.
Modern jewellery styling is all about personal taste, and with the rise of stacking jewellery, wearing a tennis bracelet alongside a watch has become not just acceptable, but stylish.
In fact, a tennis bracelet’s delicate sparkle can look especially striking next to a watch — provided you consider a few practical points.
A Brief History of the Tennis Bracelet
The tennis bracelet owes its name to professional tennis player Chris Evert, who famously stopped play during a US Open match after losing her diamond bracelet mid-game. Overnight, jewellers around the world were inundated with requests for “tennis bracelets” — a term that didn’t exist the day before.
Traditionally, a tennis bracelet is made up of identical gemstone-set links, hinged together so the bracelet moves fluidly around the wrist. Diamonds set in white gold were the classic choice, offering a timeless, elegant look.
Today, tennis bracelets are available in a wide range of materials and styles — from sterling silver and cubic zirconia to coloured gemstones and modern settings — making them suitable for everyday wear as well as special occasions.
Tennis Bracelet Styles to Consider
While the classic diamond line bracelet remains a favourite, modern tennis bracelets now come in many variations, including:
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Cubic zirconia tennis bracelets for an affordable, everyday sparkle
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Coloured gemstone designs
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Baguette-cut or mixed-shape stones
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Graduated or alternating stone sizes
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Pearl and gemstone combinations
These contemporary styles make tennis bracelets far more versatile — and easier to pair with a watch.
Wearing a Tennis Bracelet with a Watch
Wearing a tennis bracelet and a watch on the same wrist can look beautifully balanced, particularly with today’s larger watch designs.
Because tennis bracelets are usually lightweight and refined, they don’t overwhelm the wrist and instead add contrast and interest alongside a watch.
Mixed metals also work well. A silver bracelet can be worn with a gold watch, and vice versa, especially if the overall look feels intentional.
Styling Tips for Wearing a Tennis Bracelet with a Watch
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Consider the materials
A leather watch strap pairs particularly well with a tennis bracelet, as it avoids metal-on-metal contact and creates a softer look. -
Match details, not everything
You don’t need an exact match — instead, try echoing one element, such as a mother-of-pearl dial with a pearl bracelet, or a minimalist watch with a more sparkly bracelet. -
Balance proportions
A plain watch face works well with a more decorative bracelet, while a detailed watch may suit a simpler tennis bracelet. -
Try them on together
If possible, take your watch with you when choosing a bracelet. Move your wrist naturally and check how they sit together in a mirror.
Practical Considerations & Care
Which Wrist?
You can wear both on either wrist, but be mindful if it’s your dominant hand. Leaning on your wrist while writing or working may cause unnecessary wear or scratches.
Mixing Materials
Diamonds are extremely hard and can scratch watch cases or glass. Likewise, stainless steel watch bracelets can damage softer precious metals like gold.
If you’re wearing a gold tennis bracelet, a watch with a leather strap is often the safest and most elegant choice.
Bracelet Fit
A tennis bracelet should fit comfortably — not too loose and not too tight.
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Too loose: it may snag or scratch your watch
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Too tight: it may sit underneath the watch and cause friction
Most ladies’ tennis bracelets are around 7.5 inches, but adjustable styles or extender chains can help achieve the perfect fit.
Check for Damage
Regularly inspect the claws or settings holding the stones. A raised or damaged setting can scratch your watch — and risks losing a stone if left unchecked.
In Summary
There’s nothing wrong with wearing a tennis bracelet with a watch — in fact, it’s a simple way to elevate both pieces and refresh your look.
Just remember to:
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Choose compatible materials
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Ensure both bracelet and watch fit properly
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Avoid excessive rubbing or contact
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Check your jewellery regularly for wear
When styled thoughtfully, a tennis bracelet worn with a watch can look effortlessly elegant and completely timeless.
If you are looking for a perfect tennis bracelet you can view our range here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wear a tennis bracelet and a watch on the same wrist?
Yes, you can wear a tennis bracelet and a watch on the same wrist. While traditionally bracelets were worn on the opposite wrist to a watch, modern jewellery styling embraces personal preference and stacking. When worn thoughtfully, a tennis bracelet can look elegant alongside a watch.
Will a tennis bracelet scratch a watch?
A tennis bracelet can potentially scratch a watch, particularly if it is set with diamonds, which are extremely hard. To minimise the risk of damage, ensure both pieces fit well and avoid excessive movement or rubbing. Watches with sapphire crystal glass and leather straps are generally safer to wear with tennis bracelets.
Should you match metals when wearing a tennis bracelet with a watch?
Matching metals is not essential. Mixed metals are now very common in jewellery styling, and a silver tennis bracelet can be worn with a gold watch and vice versa. For a cohesive look, you may wish to echo one detail, such as the dial colour or accent metal.
Is it better to wear a tennis bracelet with a leather or metal watch strap?
A leather watch strap is often the best option when wearing a tennis bracelet, as it reduces metal-on-metal contact and lowers the risk of scratches. Leather straps also create a softer, more balanced look alongside the sparkle of a tennis bracelet.
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