Necklaces are the ultimate accessory game-changer – they can instantly elevate any outfit from drab to fab with just the right amount of sparkle and personality. But with trends constantly evolving, it can be tricky to know exactly what’s in style. Never fear, I’m here to give you the full scoop on the necklace trends that are majorly hot right now.
Chunky Chain Necklaces
Let’s start with the bold, statement-making vibe of chunky chain necklaces. These babies are all about making an edgy, modern impact whether you’re rocking a casual jeans-and-tee combo or a dressier going-out look. I have this one gunmetal chain that’s basically become my security blanket – I throw it on with everything from sweats to slip dresses. It just instantly adds that cool-girl, IDGAF attitude.
The great thing about chunky chains is that you can wear them alone as the focal point or layer a few of different sizes and textures. I’m really digging the mix of a thick curb chain with a couple sleek snake chains right now. Just be careful not to go too over-the-top unless you’re really committed to that rappper-meets-rockstar aesthetic.
Styling Chunky Chains
- Try a single statement chain over a plain tee or tank
- Layer 2-3 different chain necklaces of varying lengths
- Let chains be the star by pairing with a low neckline or open collar
- Mix metals like yellow gold, rose gold, and silver for an eclectic look
Popular Jewelry Pie Chart
Dainty Layered Necklaces
On the total opposite end of the spectrum, we have the trend of layering multiple dainty, delicate necklaces. This vibe is all about achieving that effortless bohemian look that seems like you just wandered out of a chic Parisian apartment decorated by a well-traveled artist. Ooh la la.
To get this look right, you’ll want to mix and match different chain styles and materials – think gossamer copper chains, beaded earthtone strands, and whisper-thin silver pendants. The key is making sure the necklaces are varied in length so they gracefully graze your neck and décolletage. It’s meant to look eclectic yet understated, like these pieces have just accumulated over the years from your spiritual journeys and vintage markets.
Full disclosure, this is a trend I’ve struggled with because I’m basically a chaos muppet when it comes to accessorizing. I inevitably end up with a tangled mess of necklaces that looks like the bird lady from Home Alone got into a tussle with Mr. Mammal fromĭ Kid ‘n Play. But when done right, this layered look is such an easy way to add some romance and personality to any outfit.
Tips for Layering Necklaces
| Necklace Type | Description | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Choker | Close-fitting necklace that sits snug against the neck | 14-16 inches |
| Princess | Medium length that falls just above the collarbone | 16-18 inches |
| Matinee | Hangs between the collarbone and bust line | 20-24 inches |
| Opera | Longer style that falls below the bust | 28-34 inches |
For an effortless layered look, start with a choker or princess length necklace as your shortest piece. Then add 1-2 longer matinee layers, and consider finishing with an opera length necklace as the finale.
Pearls Galore
In case you hadn’t noticed, pearls have made a major comeback from the world of white gloves and country clubs. Don’t get me wrong, pearls will always be a timeless classic – but they’re getting a very of-the-moment makeover with tons of fresh, modern new styles.
We’re seeing everything from single strands of imperfect, baroque pearls to delicate seed pearl pendants and clustered, escalating pearl earring jackets. And the colors have expanded way beyond basic white – you can now get pearls in trendy shades of grey, pink, blue, green, and even black. As someone who practically grew up at a tennis club, I have to admit I’m really digging these cooler, more laidback takes on the preppy pearl.
How to Style Pearls in a Modern Way
| Style | Description | Suggested Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Single Strand | A simple strand of pearls in any size or color | White tee + blazer, sheath dress, distressed denim |
| Statement Piece | Chunky, clustered, or asymmetric pearl designs | Plain knit, satin camisole, structured button-down |
| Pearly Accents | Delicate pearl charms, jackets, or scattered details | Sweaters, casual jackets, simple jewelry layering |
To make pearls feel modern rather than mumsy, look for designs with edgier materials like leather or mixed metals. Or try contrasting a traditional pearl strand with something super casual like an old band tee or ripped boyfriend jeans. It’s all about surprising, unexpected pairings.
Colorful Statement Pieces
While we’re on the topic of bold, eye-catching necklaces, let’s talk about one of the biggest trends for Spring/Summer – vibrant pops of color. That’s right, the brightest, most cheerful necklaces are ruling the roost this season. Think juicy resin pieces, glossy enamel hoops, and chunky beaded strands in zesty shades.
I have to admit, I was a little skeptical of this trend at first. As much as I love color, wearing something that bold around my neck area seemed almost aggressively cheerful. Like I’d be that obnoxious person power-walking around the neighborhood at 7am on a Saturday, blinding everyone with my neon necklace and aggressive optimism.
But you know what? After embracing a few colored pieces, I’m fully on board. There’s just something so fun and mood-boosting about slipping on a zingy bright necklace. It instantly livens up any basic outfit and makes you feel like a Ray of DGAF Sunshine out there.
The key with colorful statement necklaces is to keep the rest of your look relatively pared down so the necklace can be the star of the show. I’ve been loving mine with a simple white tee or tank and cute shorts for an easy warm-weather look. Or they also add the perfect punch when worn over an LBD or slinky slip dress for a dressier night out.
Colorful Necklace Pairings
| Necklace Style | Suggested Outfit Pairings |
|---|---|
| Resin Link Necklace (hot pink, tangerine, cobalt blue) | White tank, denim shorts, sandals |
| Enamel Door-Knocker Hoops (sunshine yellow, fire engine red) | Black slip dress, strappy heels |
| Chunky Beaded Strands (kiwi green, fuchsia, turquoise) | White button-down, cropped jeans, sandals |
One last tip – don’t be afraid to mix and layer different colorful pieces too! A vivid beaded number looks so dope layered under a set of bright enamel hoops. Just have fun with it and let those cheerful hues make you smile.
Personalized & Symbolic Necklaces
Okay, last but definitely not least, it’s time to talk about one of the sweetest and most meaningful necklace trends – personalized and symbolic styles. These types of necklaces are all about representing special moments, loved ones, your unique personality, or simply putting your favorite symbols out into the universe.
We’re seeing tons of beautiful options here, from dainty initial necklaces to portraitsbags or coin pendants engraved with birthdates or relationships. Celestial motifs like moons, stars, and constellations are also hugely popular, along with spiritual symbols like hamsa hands, evil eye pendants, and ankhs. You can keep it simple with a solo symbol or go bolder with a full statement piece.
Personally, I’m a huge fan of these special necklaces because they allow you to wear little talismans that are rich with meaning and sentiment. My go-to is a sleek lil evil eye choker that was an anniversary gift from my partner – it makes me feel spiritually protected and reminds me of their love. See, already getting sappy over here!
Other pieces in my rotation include a gold vermeil locket with a photo of my grandparents, a dibs necklace with my sister’s initials, and an asymmetric choker with both my astrological sign and my spirit animal (the otter – hey, I’m a silly lil thing). To me, these meaningful layers are like imbuing your outfits with little amulets that hold precious memories or ideologies.
Popular Symbolic Motifs & Meanings
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hamsa Hand | An ancient Middle Eastern symbol for happiness, luck, health, and gratitude |
| Evil Eye | Meant to ward off negative energies and protect the wearer |
| Ankh | An Egyptian hieroglyphic that represents everlasting life and eternal presence |
| Tree of Life | Signifies rebirth, growth, fertility, family, andconnective harmony |
| Astrology/Zodiac Signs | Tied to one’s astrological traits, destiny, and cosmic vibrations |
| Initials or Names | Can represent your own identity or honor close loved ones |
Whether you choose a single initial pendant or layer various symbolic talismans, these pieces allow you to adorn yourself with little charms holding personal power and juju. Not to mention they can make beautifully sentimental gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or just because.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it – from edgy chains to bohemian layers, playful brights to meaningful amulets, the necklace trends this season are an eclectic and personality-packed bunch. The best part? With so many different aesthetics and price points out there, there’s definitely something for everyone to adorn themselves with some fresh new sparkle.
So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and experiment! Try a chunky chain or punchy resin piece to add some edge. Work on perfecting that effortless layered look. Pay homage to granny’s pearls but give them a modern remix. Or adorn yourself with little symbols and talismans that feed your soul. Remember, above all else, the right necklace (or necklaces!) has the power to elevate any look while allowing you to showcase your unique identity and spirit.