Just about every woman out there grew up playing with their mother’s or grandmother’s pearls, fantasising about a day when they were ‘grown up’ and could wear such beautiful treasures on a daily basis.
While a strand of pearls was every woman’s staple accessory in the ‘20s, by the ‘80s they were considered old fashioned and only worn by the old, “blue rinse set”. Since then, designs, styles and trends have changed and now pearls are back in a BIG way and have been completely reimagined from the classic pearl stud earrings or necklace.
What is the History of the Pearl?
According to Hindu legend, the god Krishna drew the first pearl from the ocean and offered it to his daughter on her wedding day to symbolise purity, unity and love. Many of the world’s other religions also consider pearls to have a sacred meaning, and this shared symbolism has made them the perfect gem to wear on a wedding day.
When it Comes to Weddings…
Pearls have always been popular for weddings due to their beautifully soft hue and colour that compliments your gown, mimicking the various shades of bridal white or ivory with their luscious outer shell.
When it comes to weddings – a heirloom or sentimental piece of jewellery never goes out of fashion. Just look to the royal weddings where there is a strong tradition of wearing pearls on their wedding day – style icons Meghan Markle or Kate Middleton show just how timeless they are! These pieces are usually classic in their design – meaning they can be worn from generation to generation and always look elegant and timeless.
While these classic designs are popular generation after generation, brides today are choosing to embrace a more modern look with quality costume jewellery that incorporates sleek design and freshwater pearls.
Pearls are not only trending for earrings but for the overall look on the big day. From embellishment on gowns to headpieces, clutches, veils, shoes hair pins and clips– they are a favourite all round for the big day.
Let’s Talk Fashion!
There are so many ways you can wear pearls today, the traditional pair of pearl stud earrings have become a staple in our jewellery box, as have pearl hair pins and clips. Just like you can never go wrong wearing black, pearls work in so many ways. They are constantly popping up your favourite influencer, the runways and in all the glossy mags.
[Couture houses such as Chanel were the ones who were responsible for popularising the pearl being worn in costume jewellery. “A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls,” declared Coco Chanel, who was rarely seen without a pile of pearls casually draped around her neck. She shocked society ladies by mixing the real thing with fakes and teaming her pearls with casual daywear. We can largely thank her for elevating the status of costume jewellery and we haven’t looked back since!
Can’t get enough of pearls?