Once considered prim or old-fashioned, pearls are back in fashion in a big way. We’re not talking the clutching kind of strings of pearls here, either – far from it, 2022’s pearl jewellery has undergone a thoroughly modern remake and is now the easiest way to inject a bit of luxe femininity to any outfit.
The rise in the demand for pearls comes from the ‘pearlcore’ trend, which has seen pearls become popular in interiors as well as fashion. It seems we’ve taken a liking to the gemstone thanks to hit dramas like Bridgerton, which has made us all revel in regency-era style. But most recently, it was singer Adele who caused a surge in pearl jewellery searches. After the release of her music video for Oh My God, searches for pearl earrings rose by 77 per cent, according to data platform Love The Sales.
Not very inspired by your jeans and tee combo? A pair of gold hoops with pearl pendants will elevate the plainest of outfits from basic to chic in seconds. Meanwhile, this season’s pearls look just as stylish with dressier outfits, too.
While we’re mostly talking about the freshwater pearl-style here, there is still a place for the perfectly polished, spherical style, which work best encrusted onto a hair slide or hairband. The freshwater style is considered to be more fashion-forward, while the polished, rounded style give a more traditional look.
If gold tends to be your metal of choice, you’re in luck as you’ll find it’s the go-to combination with pearls this season – the combo gives more of a nostalgic vibe than silver does. However, some silver pearl pieces do exist and they boast a lovely modern feel.
Even better, you don’t have to fork out an arm and a leg to get some pearls in your life – most high street brands currently boast a fantastic range of faux pearl jewellery pieces at affordable prices.
Keep scrolling for our edit of 21 of the most stylish pearl jewellery pieces to add to your collection asap, from just £3.99.
The pearl jewellery pieces that will luxe up any outfit
Harris Reed Moonlight Drop Earrings, £275, Missoma
Perla Double Pearl Drop Gold Plated Drop Earrings, £42, Oliver Bonas
Statement pearl earrings, £12, Accessorize
A B Davis 9ct Gold Freshwater Pearl Bracelet, £25, John Lewis
Bold Pearl Hoop Earrings, £85, Mejuri
Pearl Drop Necklace, £39, Charles & Keith
18ct Gold Pearl Single French Hook Earring, £475, Annoushka
Nura Keshi Pearl Drop Earrings, £95, Monica Vinader
Ocean Shell Earrings, £65, Edge of Ember
Mother of Pearl Signet Ring, £34.95, Seol + Gold
Almeta Freshwater Pearl & Bar Gold Plated Bangle, £45, Oliver Bonas
Pearl hoop earrings, £15.99, ZARA
Believer Ear Jacket in Yellow Gold, (£84) was £120, Olivia & Pearl
Single Pearl Satellite Necklace, £20, Orelia
Pinky Pearl Half Eternity Yellow Gold Vermeil, £175, Otiumberg
Marti Earrings – Hazelnut, £95, Shrimps