5 Chic Ways To Wear Pearls Now
No longer the preserve of grandmothers and monarchs, pearls are enjoying a renaissance. But how to style these precious pieces for a cool and contemporary look this season? CHARLIE BOYD explains…
Once considered a perennial of any grandmother’s jewelry box, pearls have a long and rich history as signifiers of wealth, nobility and even prudishness. Perhaps the most famous pearl-wearing icon of the modern era was Queen Elizabeth II, which goes some way towards explaining their ‘prim and proper’ connotations.
The late monarch was, however, just one of a long line of British royals who displayed an affinity with pearls; Queen Victoria even began a family tradition of gifting a single pearl to her daughters and granddaughters each year on their birthday, so they would eventually have a full string.
Today, simple strings of pearls and classic drop earrings remain timeless, but many fine-jewelry designers are also experimenting with pearl creations that feel audaciously modern and are imbued with attitude. From sliced stones and those set alongside spikes, to single-earring styles and contemporary clusters, this is the way to wear pearls now…
Stacked up the ear
Rather than a traditional pair of pearl studs, a stack of single earrings, huggies and hoops feels thoroughly fresh for everyday wear. Play with size, color and scale – for example, large medallion drops by Marlo Laz can be paired with simple diamond and pearl studs by Maria Tash, or consider adding a shot of neon with Eéra’s eye-catching utilitarian designs. Meanwhile, Mizuki’s exclusive NET-A-PORTER collection of pink pearls will add variation to an all-white curation – and its ear cuff with a single teardrop pearl is the perfect final flourish.
Layered with chains
A traditional strand of pearls now needs added oomph, so pair with a slew of gold chains to create an eclectic and contemporary mix. Irene Neuwirth’s ‘Gumball’ design or a Marlo Laz gold chain featuring oversized orbs are the ultimate wish-list pieces, while Sophie Bille Brahe’s ‘Peggy Rosette’ bow design feels at its most avant-garde when styled alongside a flurry of whisker-fine chains. Don’t shy away from charms, either – Ileana Makri, Storrow and Diane Kordas all offer pearl necklaces with eclectic gold and gemstone-set talismans.
Peeking out from a collar
We’re bored of seeing pearl necklaces worn at collarbone length with a round neckline, so consider wearing a simple chain necklace with pearl accents to peek over a collared shirt this season instead. The perfect pieces? Sophie Bille Brahe’s ‘Grand Orangerie de Perle’ style is simple but impactful, while Melissa Joy Manning’s 14-karat-gold design sees three pearls sleekly speared on a precious gold bar. Those preferring a modern pendant should look to Mateo for single-drop pieces, set alongside subtle diamonds.
Adorning hoop earrings
Pearl hoops appeal to our love of the unexpected. Maria Tash offers pearl hoop earrings in either yellow, white or rose gold, each fitted with a frill of gleaming white gems. Mizuki has crafted a mix of styles – from gold hoops that hold just a single pearl at their heart, to fully strung designs that create a full loop of iridescent luster. Spinelli Kilcollin and Octavia Elizabeth are stylish options for huggie-style hoops with petite pearl drops, but Mateo’s oversized pair is perhaps the most versatile, boasting a removable pearl to offer a stalwart gold hoop, too.
Strung on chokers
Chokers have enjoyed a renaissance this year as part of the broader move towards ’90s jewelry trends. Choose a style that sits just above the collarbone, and don’t shy away from pearls set on leather, cord or velvet ribbon – this brings fresh attitude to a classic gem. Those feeling brave can even stack choker styles, mixing in colorful beads, charms and clasps.
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