Girls are you still loving pearls? I was swooning over them last autumn winter, especially in this post all about my Glamorous pearl embellished denim jacket and in all honesty, my love affair with them is still burning. Of course wearing pearls is nothing new, women have been wearing strings for hundreds of years. They are one of the most coveted gems in the world and in modern times, there are so many great faux options which opens them up to being accessible to everyone, price wise. While pearls gained a reputation of being outdated several years ago, they really made a contemporary comeback in 2017 and there are so many ways that you can incorporate them into a modern, on trend outfit now.
In this post, I’m going to share 5 different ways that you can accessorise your outfit with pearls.
1. ADD PEARLS TO YOUR HAIR
No single piece of jewellery is more iconic in the history of fashion accessories than the long white pearl necklace. Glamorous women have been wearing a string of pearls for decades in the traditional way but have you thought about adding them to your hair? Wrapped around like a headband, woven through a braid or wrapped around a bun for an elegant look, there are so many options. You can also buy gorgeous pearl adorned hair accessories now should that be easier for you.
2. WEAR PEARL SHOES
Repurposing pearl jewellery isn’t the only way to think outside the box when it comes to the jewel of the ocean. In fact, its popularity today has kickstarted a new wave of pearl fashion, where many everyday clothing items and accessories are decorated with faux or real pearls, depending on your budget.
Fortunately, you won’t have to spend thousands of dollars on Chanel stilettos that have been ornamented with freshwater pearls. There are so many great options out there on the highstreet or if you Love Catalogues or online shopping, you can pick up some fab ones that you’ll not see everyone wearing like the styles that people go crazy for in Primark. These pearl trim loafers from Curvissa are my personal favourite. I have a pair and they feel like slippers under foot, super comfortable and so beautiful to look at too!
However if you want something truly unique then customisation is the way to go. Putting them on your shoes is an easy DIY project that won’t break the bank, as you can buy loose cultured pearls for incredibly discounted prices. Get your glue gun ready, and create the footwear of your dreams!
3. OPT FOR PEARL ENCRUSTED SHADES
Due to the vision of legendary fashion houses such as Chanel and Gucci, pearl-encrusted sunglasses have become a staple in the accessory wardrobe of any elegant woman. However, given the reputation and luxurious status of these brands, a single pair can set you back hundreds of pounds. Of course, if you have the budget for them, it would be a shame not to invest in the real deal but if they’re anything but loose change for you, I’d really suggest a highstreet version.
Years ago I saved up to buy a pair of D&G sunnies and despite looking after them, thinking they’d last forever, so many of the crystals fell out and the lenses became bubbled and peeled. I was devastated and couldn’t return them as too much time had passed. I definitely learnt my lesson and wont be buying such expensive sunnies again, unless spending £350 ever becomes the equivalent of me spending £30 now, relatively speaking if you get what I mean!
The fact is, you can still look glam and stand out from the crowd on a budget, emulating the look of this season’s Chanel round sunglasses with pearl detail sunglasses from the highstreet or again, by getting handy with a glue gun and some loose cultured pearls!
4. DRESS UP OR DOWN A PEARL CLUTCH
Contrary to popular belief, pearl clutches aren’t an extravagant accessory reserved for red carpet events only. They will certainly steal the show at any special occasion, an example of styling one is in this plus size prom dress post, but you can rock them out in town with confidence as well.
Some pearl bags are great for wearing during the day too. I’d suggest opting for a style that has a less flamboyant design and dress it down with casual neutral tones and bright accents for a youthful and updated aesthetic.
You could take inspiration from the stunning Olivia Palermo and her preference for Natalie Trad clutches. She has been spotted pairing an intricate mother of pearl clutch by the designer with a fitted white pantsuit, navy silk top and casual platform Oxford brogues. How fabulous does she look? I’ve got serious heart eyed emoji face over here! That’s the type of look that turns heads through its effortless elegance regardless of the occasion!
5. ADD PEARLS TO YOUR DENIM
Love them or hate them, pearl jeans and denim jackets are the simplest way to incorporate the gem into any laidback outfit without feeling like you’ve just raided your nana’s closet. They are just as versatile as regular denim, but they add that certain girly flair to your look that is hard to achieve otherwise. If you will choose one item from this list to try, start with them because in all honesty, over the last year, they’ve become my favourite way to wear pearls… aside from my gorgeous pearl stud earrings of course.
I’ve worn black jean shorts embellished with pearls but my favourite colour way is with blue denim, especially when its a little distressed as it tones down the fancy pants nature of the pearls and gives you the option of pairing your jeans or jacket with comfortable, casual pieces such as chunky knits, Chelsea boots or even a vividly coloured coat for a pop of brightness.
Wearing pearls goes beyond the items you’ll find in your jewellery box. There’s nothing wrong with the traditional earrings, bracelets and necklaces, I love them but don’t be afraid to repurpose this gem to really make a statement with your outfits. There are so many creative ways that you can do this and I hope I’ve given you a bit of inspiration in this post!
Want to accessorise with pearls yourself? Pin this post for inspo!
How do you wear or style up pearls? How confident are you with customising your clothing and accessories?
I never thought of pearls. I might give them a go when I’m feeling dressing a bit more girly. 🙂 Thanks for the post x
Oh I adore your pearl jacket – Pearls are timeless and never will go out of fashion. They are definitely not old lady accessories anymore!
I think pearls are classic and timeless. White goes with everything so they are easy to include but I hadn’t thought of combining them with denim
I love the idea of adding pearls to a denim jacket – great way to add a little bit of pop to it! Also always a clutch!!
Laura x