Pearls are back: how to wear pearls the modern way
Pearls are well and truly back, but not the way they looked in your grandmother's jewelry box. The secret to wearing pearls the modern way: pair them with sleek gold or silver, choose contemporary shapes like a pearl on a ring or a double layering necklace, and wear them casually, with nothing more than a t-shirt or a blazer. In this guide we show you how to style pearls so they look fresh and modern, with our favorite pearl jewelry from the collection.
Why pearls are back in style
From the runway to the street: pearls are back as one of the biggest jewelry trends around. Not as a stiff double strand, but worked into modern designs: a single pearl on a fine chain, pearls mixed with chain links, or a pearl as the centerpiece of a statement ring. That mix of classic and modern is what makes the trend so strong: pearls feel luxurious, but they wear like a basic.
Even better: our pearl jewelry is made with imitation pearls on premium stainless steel. You get the soft glow of pearls, but waterproof, hypoallergenic and without the fragility.
5 rules for wearing pearls the modern way
1. Pair pearls with sleek metal
The fastest way to make pearls look modern: put them next to minimalist gold or silver. A pearl necklace alongside a fine gold-tone chain, or pearl stud earrings with sleek hoop earrings. The contrast between soft and sharp takes the formality right off them.
2. Choose modern shapes
A teardrop pearl pendant, a pearl on a twisted ring or pearls alternating with chain links: choose designs where the pearl is an accent rather than the whole piece. That way you get the glow without the black-tie feeling.
3. Wear pearls casually
Pearls with a white t-shirt and denim, over an oversized blazer or even on a knit: that offhand combination is exactly the trend. The simpler the outfit, the more modern the pearls look.
4. Layer your pearl necklace
A pearl necklace turns contemporary the moment you put it next to a smooth chain. Or choose a ready-made double pearl necklace with the layering already built in. You will find more styling tips in our guide to layering necklaces.
5. One pearl statement per look
Pick one eye-catcher: the earrings, the necklace or the ring. Keep the rest minimalist. That keeps the look balanced and gives the pearl the attention it deserves.
Pearl earrings: from subtle to statement
From fine stud earrings for every day to vintage statements. The Lenna comes in gold-tone and silver-tone.
Pearls at your neck and on your hand
A pearl necklace is the easiest way into the trend. The Kristy combines two layers with small pearls, while the Florine keeps things minimalist with a teardrop pendant. And if you want to wear pearls a little differently, go for a ring: the Tiger with its white pearl is a real eye-catcher on your hand.
Pearl necklaces and more
Necklaces, a statement ring and hoop earrings with a pearl drop. All waterproof and hypoallergenic.
Pearls that can handle real life
Imitation pearls on premium stainless steel: waterproof, nickel-free and colorfast. Showering, working out and swimming are all fine.
Shop all jewelry →How to keep your pearl jewelry looking good
The big advantage of imitation pearls on stainless steel: they need almost no maintenance. The base does not discolor and handles water fine. To keep the pearls themselves looking their best, wipe them clean now and then with a soft cloth and store them away from chunkier chains to avoid scratches. Perfume and hairspray are best applied before you put your jewelry on, and that goes for all jewelry.
Pearls as a gift
Pearl jewelry is one of the safest and prettiest gifts you can give: timeless, feminine and still on trend. The fine Elvia stud earrings or the Perla studs make lovely entry-level gifts, while the Kristy or Lenna make more of an impression. Everything arrives in a luxury gift box. Need more inspiration? Take a look at which jewelry suits me.
Frequently asked questions about wearing pearls
Are pearls back in fashion?
Yes. Pearls are one of the biggest jewelry trends right now, but in modern shapes: a single pearl on a fine chain, a double pearl necklace to layer or a pearl on a statement ring. Classic pearl strands are making way for playful, contemporary designs.
How do you wear pearls without looking old-fashioned?
Pair pearls with minimalist gold or silver, choose modern shapes and wear them casually with a t-shirt, blazer or knit. Keep the rest of your jewelry sleek and pick one pearl eye-catcher per look.
Do pearls go with gold or with silver?
Both. With gold, pearls take on a warm, soft look; with silver they read fresher and cooler. Choose whichever suits your skin tone and wardrobe best, or mix the two: pearls look beautiful in a mixed metals look.
Can you wear pearl jewelry in the shower?
At Lundholm you can. Our pearl jewelry is made with imitation pearls on premium stainless steel with a PVD coating: waterproof, nickel-free and hypoallergenic. No discoloration and no green marks.
What is the difference between real and imitation pearls?
Real pearls grow inside oysters and are delicate: sensitive to water, perfume and scratches. Imitation pearls give the same soft glow, but they are stronger, more affordable and, combined with stainless steel, suitable for everyday wear.
How do you combine a pearl necklace with other necklaces?
Layer a pearl necklace next to a smooth cable or snake chain with at least 5 cm (2 inches) difference in length. The contrast between pearls and sleek metal makes the look modern. Or choose a ready-made double pearl necklace like the Kristy. Read our guide to layering necklaces too.
Is pearl jewelry a good gift?
Yes, pearl jewelry is timeless and suits almost everyone. Fine pearl stud earrings are a safe entry-level gift, while a pearl necklace or pearl ring makes more of an impression. Lundholm jewelry arrives in a luxury gift box.
Love, the Lundholm team
