Whether you love ’em or hate ’em, studs are having a major moment right now, and they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Once reserved for goth chicks and pit bulls, these days studs can be spotted everywhere from your local Trader Joe’s to A-list red carpet events.

As a pro-stud dresser, I’m pleased with the studded high-fashion offerings that designers are currently putting out. Studs automatically add that bad-ass vibe that’s necessary for certain days; they’re a way to say, “Don’t f*$# with me,” while flashing a confident smile and still minding your Ps & Qs.

In order to get studs right, it’s important to balance them with softer pieces. You want to walk the “approachable yet not-afraid-to-stand-up-for-yourself” line. I made this hard-edged studded jacket work by pairing it with a floaty chiffon-back tank and black harem pants.

It has a certain something to it, don’t you think?

Jacket: Beulah. Tank: BCBGMAXAZRIA. Pants: Nation LTD. Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell.