Seashell Necklaces: From the Beach to the Catwalk
Beach-themed accessories are dominating fashion trends, combining ocean charm with urban style in an irresistibly appealing trend.
The iconic white shell necklace of the 2000s is making a strong comeback, reimagined in a new way. This time, instead of polished shells, we’re seeing fresh, original versions of the shells, as if they were just picked up from the beach.
Originating among surfer dudes in the 70s, the accessory became a big thing in the 90s and early 2000s, cementing its place in fashion history. For younger generations, shell necklaces were associated with iconic Y2K movies like Blue Crush and Holiday in the Sun, and reality TV shows like Laguna Beach and The OC. Then, when paired with a Hollister polo, the accessory got the upgrade it needed to meet the fashion trends of 2024.
Shell necklaces were also on the runway, with extravagant versions of the traditional shell necklace. Shows at Schiaparelli and Casablanca featured ocean-inspired necklaces and earrings.
However, this is not the first time fashion has embraced the beauty of the ocean. In 2020, we were treated to classic hoop earrings with seashells from Bali, presented in Oscar de la Renta's Spring/Summer collection.
Even at Prada, in its Autumn/Winter 2017 collection, the brand dressed models in surfer-style necklaces, contrasting with business suits and cardigans.
Model Gigi Hadid and influencers like María Pombo and Chiara Ferragni are among the many stars embracing the trend, opting for shell necklaces, anklets, and even using them in beach-inspired bags.
Kim Kardashian made a statement at the second edition of Midore Green Halloween in New York. For this look, she chose an XL seashell bra, along with a green, mermaid-tailed, form-fitting dress. The jewellery was accented with white pearl necklaces, which were paired with seashell pieces.
In the music video "Spirit" from the album "The Lion King: The Gift" released in 2019 with the remake version of The Lion King, singer Beyoncé wears an impressive crown, made from mother-of-pearl shells.
Sistas actress Novi Brown also wore a full-body costume made from mother-of-pearl shells to the 2022 BET Awards, created by the same designer who made Beyoncé's headpiece. Nigerian designer LaFalaise Dionn even calls herself the “Queen of Cowries.”
Even Queen Elizabeth II can't resist the charms of this accessory. One of the Queen's most iconic pieces of jewellery is the Courtauld Thomson Scallop-Shell brooch, created in 1919 by Goldsmiths and Silversmiths Co. of London, and partly designed by Sir Courtauld Thomson.
This piece of jewellery has a symbolic significance as it was bequeathed by Mr Thomson to his sister, Winifred, who then gave it to the Queen Mum in 1944. It was from this time that Queen Elizabeth II became the heiress to this beautiful, diamond-encrusted brooch.
If necklaces aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other options: from seashell belts to oversized seashell earrings, to even XXL boho necklaces. These accessories will add a pop of colour to your summer outfits, and prove that adding a little nautical inspiration to your style is never a bad idea.
