If you’ve ever thought of pearl jewellery as an outdated trend, you were sorely mistaken. Celebrities like Harry Styles, Kendall Jenner and even Vice President Kamala Harris, have all been snapped wearing pearls in recent months – and that’s not all.
Following on from their runway success over the past two years, pearls have once again taken centre stage on this year’s spring/summer catwalks and their popularity shows no signs of waning. In fact, these natural gems have undoubtedly become one of the biggest jewellery trends of the year.
Keen to know which styles are most popular right now? Read on as we reveal the top six pearl jewellery trends for 2021, tips for how to wear them and some added extras for those seeking something a little different.
2021 spring/summer pearl jewellery trends
1. Statement earrings
Bold, chandelier-style pearl earrings graced the runways of designers like Jason Wu, Simone Rocha and Paco Rabane, ahead of this year’s summer season. Long, shoulder-sweeping styles also featured highly, as did oversized pearl studs earrings.
Statement pearl drop earrings like these are perfect for special events and formal occasions, where an extra dash of glamour is always welcome. Pair with a sleek cocktail dress, stiletto heels and a pearl cuff bracelet for added drama.
2. Colourful gemstones
If colourful necklaces are more your thing, you’ll be pleased to know that they’re also right on-trend at the moment. Dior was one of several designers to model the vibrant gemstone and pearl necklace trend for 2021, showcasing a beaded coral design with creamy pearls in their boho-inspired Ready to Wear collection.
At Coleman Douglas Pearls, we design and supply a range of multi-coloured pearl necklaces featuring semi-precious stones like amethyst, amber and aquamarine. Easy to style, they’re perfect for adding a splash of colour to neutral summer outfits. Pair with a loose white blouse or flowy dress in beige and brown to let your jewellery stand out.
3. Baroque pearls
Irregular-shaped pearls are another key trend in 2021. Designers like Dior, Fendi and Altuzarra featured striking baroque pearl earrings in their latest spring/summer collections, offering a contemporary twist on the classic, smooth pearl.
Showcasing the beauty of pearls in their natural form, our baroque pearl jewellery range contains various one of a kind pieces in different shapes and sizes. Suitable for both everyday wear and parties, they offer a modern, edgy look for any occasion.
4. Layered pearls
Another popular pearl necklace trend for 2021, layers of luminous pearls took centre stage on the catwalks of legendary fashion designers Chloe, Chanel and Dior. Long pearl necklaces were paired with contrasting chains and multi-strand styles to create a stylish, thrown-together look, with a hint of neon pink giving a nod to 1980s punk fashion.
Layered jewellery in mismatched styles has been very popular on runways this year, and it’s an easy trend to replicate. Simply add a mix of necklaces, from pearl chokers to long bead designs and pearl chain necklaces, to give your outfit a rock-chick edge.
5. Men in pearls
Ever since Harry Styles first sparked the pearl jewellery trend for men back in 2019, other likeminded celebs and fashion designers have followed suit. This year, Thom Browne subverted gender stereotypes by featuring male models wearing skirts and pearl stud earrings, while other designers incorporated pearls into the clothing itself.
Not sure your other half is quite ready to try pearl jewellery for men? How about something more subtle? Browse our range of chic pearl tie pins and cufflinks to give a formal outfit that little extra something for a special event, without going overboard.
6. Matching pearl accessories
Alongside long pearl necklaces and bold multi-strand bracelets, pearl accessories dominated the Chanel catwalk for spring/summer 2021. Delicate pearl-chain bags and streams of pearls worn as waist belts were used to make simple outfits more eye-catching.
Complete your evening look with our pretty pearl accessories or try our versatile pearl lariats for size. These necklaces can be worn in a multitude of different ways, both around your neck or waist, depending on the style you’re going for.
Related jewellery trends for 2021
Though the following catwalk jewellery trends didn’t all feature pearls directly, it’s easy to incorporate pearls into them to create a stylish look with an added hint of glamour for summer 2021.
Asymmetric earrings
The asymmetric earring trend came about two years ago and has remained popular ever since. Ulla Johnson and Fendi featured the single earring trend again this year, and you can easily replicate it by wearing just one pearl earring, two contrasting earrings or a long design on one side and a pearl stud on the other. Take a look at our build your own drop earrings for a simple way to do this!
Long pendants
Long, delicate chains with prominent pendants were seen draped over relaxed shirts and swimsuits on Zimmerman models this year. A simple way to bring a hint of sparkle to an everyday outfit or to transition from day to night with ease, get the look with our diverse array of pearl drop pendants.
Beach-inspired jewellery
It simply wouldn’t be summertime without some beach vibes, would it? Colourful beads, iridescent pearl flanks and more unusual materials like shells and netting were the focal point of designs by Jason Wu, Versace and La Double J.
Stay on trend with Coleman Douglas Pearls
At Coleman Douglas Pearls, we are renowned for our unique pearl jewellery which incorporates a plethora of materials like leather, wood and silk. Explore our multi-coloured necklace, earring and bracelet ranges for some of our most eclectic pieces.
