Since Coco Chanel (who famously once said: “a woman should have ropes and ropes of pearls,") first introduced faux pearls into mainstream fashion, they've never really left.
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There were of course times when pearls were considered 'old fashioned’, but like many other retro trends this year, they are back with a bang. If the influence of the Y2K girlies wasn’t enough to make them cool again in 2023, or the mermaidcore trend that dominated during the summer, or the Princess of Wales' appearance in a Camilla Elphick pearl belt, the Met Gala’s Karl Lagerfeld themed gala this May certainly was.
Balmain FW23
At Balmain's Paris Fashion Week FW23 show back in February, pearls shrouded Olivier Rousteing's designs in the form of everything from jackets to glasses, berets to two-pieces. Plus, pearl earrings dominated the SS24 runways, notably from Givenchy (particularly ear cuffs) - proving they're equally as trendy as they are timeless as we head into the new year.
From A-listers to TikTok's coolest subcultures: fashionistas have constantly proved that pearls are the chicest, most versatile accessory on the planet, particularly for 2023. They can be dressed up or down, and you can dictate how much of a statement they make with the way you wear them.
There’s no better time to update your jewellery box with some perfect pearls than right now.
7 ways to wear pearls and the coolest ones to shop now:
Pearl Necklaces
One Row Pearl Drop Choker - Vivienne Westwood
I have received Vivenne Westwood jewellery for various birthdays, and I still wear every piece because its so timeless. I love the crystal-embellished orb with the drop pearl hanging below, it's a statement piece yet isn't overbearing.
Amie Bead & Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings - Oliver Bonas
Oliver Bonas have a great variety of pearl earrings this season. I'm all for injecting a pop of colour into accessories, and I love these sophisticated multi-coloured gems.
River Island has been my high street go-to in 2023. This bag looks so much more expensive than it is, plus top handle bags are going to be big in 2024.
Veronica Cutout Faux Pearl-embellished Cady Mini Dress - Rebecca Vallance
What do we love more than bows and pearls combined this season? Nothing. Both adornments dominated the AW23 runways this year, and this Rebecca Vallance piece is truly stunning.
If you're a bride to be, this dress is perfect for any season. It's so elegant and the scattered pearls offer an unique design. For winter events, pop a cropped fluffy shawl over the top and wear with diamante heels.
This stunning statement ear cuff twists together beaded freshwater pearls around a molten cuff. No piercings are needed to wear this dramatic piece of ear glam...
This silver ear cuff looks like it came straight off the SS24 runway. I love the symmetrical arrangement of the pearls, plus Mara explains the cuff "evokes a sense of wisdom, serenity, and deepened connections".
Phone straps are Instagram's favourite accessory right now. This crossbody strap is an easy way to add interest to your favourite top, whilst allowing you to be handsfree with your phone.
I looked for pearl pieces that either adhered to current trends, are timeless or will suit upcoming trends. I used my fashion expertise plus trend research to pick out a variety of accessories to hopefully offer something for everybody. I also tried to choose pieces from high street to high-end, depending on whether you are grabbing a bargain or searching for an investment piece.
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