Wait a minute … are statement necklaces making a comeback?
When did that happen? I could’ve sworn I made a lifelong vow to never wear one again!
Here’s what you can expect from this issue:
Why, after years of minimal, delicate pieces, bold jewelry finally feels right again
A quick look at the runways and how they’re bringing statement pieces back
My personal moodboard of striking chains, pendants & co.
Styling tips to balance bold accessories with effortless outfits
And, of course: the best affordable pieces from the online fashion jungle
The Comeback We Didn’t See Coming
When I think of statement necklaces and bold jewelry, I can’t help but picture cheap plastic stones, neon colors, and basic clasps – exactly the kind of pieces I wore around 2010–2012, back when the trend peaked. Since then, the word “statement” has been tainted for me – associated with bad quality and loud, flashy bling.
But the bold pieces now finding their way back onto runways and into stores don’t deserve that reputation. And while I still love delicate rings, tiny studs, and fine chain bracelets – the pieces I wear every day – I’m genuinely happy that there’s some fresh energy coming into the jewelry box again.
A bit of boldness? Feels good. Right now, basic fashion is having a major moment – we’re talking tank tops, linen pants, simple tailoring (but more on that in another issue). And while we’re all out here in our white tees and blue jeans, what we really need are accessories that bring back individuality. The kind that add a twist, tell a little story, and make a simple look feel entirely your own.
Of course, accessories can mean belts, scarves, bags, or shoes – but jewelry? Jewelry gives every outfit, no matter how good the foundation, that final touch. And not wearing jewelry at all? That’s a statement in itself.
So let’s talk about the current jewelry trends. I’ve broken them down for you into runway inspiration, my personal moodboard, and – naturally – affordable (!) alternatives to the high-end pieces. Though I’ll admit, a few splurges made it in – maybe something to bookmark as a special gift?
And as a little shopping cherry on top, we’re not stopping at necklaces and earrings. Let’s also talk about belts – the kind that go far beyond holding up your trousers and become true statement pieces in their own right.
Disclaimer: This newsletter edition is proudly brought to you in collaboration with Sézane – a brand I genuinely love and wear. It contains advertisements, as it includes brand mentions. Some links are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase a product through them. Don’t worry, it doesn’t cost you anything extra!
First things first: There are no rules when it comes to today’s statement jewelry. It could be bangles, oversized earrings, chunky wooden beads, baroque pearls, or even those trending bag charms that double as pendants. Even belts are getting their jewelry moment. Statement pieces are finally diverse, playful, and way more wearable than they used to be — and the best part? They fit right into my personal style and aesthetic.
The style that speaks to me most this season? No surprise there – it’s the Boho Romantic. Think flowing ruffles, delicate lace, and flared jeans – and yes, long, layered statement necklaces are making a comeback. Chloé clearly set the tone here, bringing back that Y2K charm we all remember (some more fondly than others). I mean, if you still have owl pendants in your jewelry box… no judgment, but let’s just say I never had an ornithology phase.
Now, I have to admit – I’m low-key tempted to bring those long necklaces back into rotation. Time to dig through my drawers and see if I’ve got anything that survived the last decade’s minimalism purge.
But there’s more: part of this Boho revival is also about treasures of the sea. Think shells, fish, seahorses, coins, pearls – basically, anything you might accidentally drag in with a fishing net. As someone who can’t resist collecting seashells on the beach, this trend feels like a personal win. It’s like my little shoreline souvenirs finally get their moment in the spotlight.
It’s one thing to scroll through runway photos, and a whole other to actually wear those looks in real life. Sure, Chloe’s Boho Romantic vibe is dreamy — all soft waves and cascading layers — and honestly, it’s the kind of aesthetic I could imagine for my wedding. But let’s be real: how many of us walk around in sheer kaftans with a thousand frills on a regular Tuesday? Exactly — not many.
That’s why I was thrilled to stumble upon wearable statement necklace looks on Pinterest. Outfits that don’t scream 2010, but still serve major inspiration. They made me want to dive back into a more maximalist approach to jewelry — and reminded me that it's totally okay to go a little over the top.
Let’s break it down: how do you actually take those dreamy boho runway vibes and make them work for everyday life? The foundation of a look I’d actually wear is a lot more minimal than what you see from Chloé, Zimmermann or Ralph Lauren on the catwalk. What I really love is the contrast — pairing statement jewelry with basics like men’s shirts, straight-leg jeans, simple tank tops or crisp white maxi dresses.
The rest of the outfit has to feel relaxed and effortless if you want to go bold with accessories. A hint of a summer tan, beachy waves and a pair of flip-flops certainly don’t hurt. But even without 30-degree weather, the look can totally work.
Think of statement pieces as a cool clash to a structured blazer, an upgrade to overalls, or the perfect complement to a suede jacket or romantic slip skirt. That’s the version of boho I can actually get behind — wearable, undone, and just the right amount of dreamy.
Picture this: turquoise waters, a salty breeze, sea turtles gliding beneath the surface — and scattered across the shore, pieces of jewelry catching the sunlight like little treasures. That’s my idea of paradise.
Lately, my style’s been leaning more minimal — less playful, more pared-back. But this kind of jewelry brings out the boho girl in me that never truly left. Maybe this summer, it’s time to embrace her again. To lean into that vintage spirit, to layer with charm and character.
So yes, my birthday wishlist this year (already shared with my mom and Lukas — subtle but strategic) is simple: just one thing. The shell necklace from Juju Vera. I’ll be dangerously close to it in New York soon. Maybe it’s a birthday gift, maybe just a sign. Either way, it’s a piece that feels like home.
My Guide to Statement Jewelry That Looks High-End (and Totally Is)
If you’ve been eyeing those romantic, beachy statement pieces and bracing yourself to drop hundreds (or even thousands) on a Chloé necklace – take a breath. You could go that route, sure, but there’s another label that’s capturing the same dreamy summer energy in its very own way: Sézane.
Sézane has always nailed that effortless French elegance, but their latest jewelry collection truly goes beyond. I already own a few of their pieces, but I was genuinely impressed by how bold, creative, and sun-drenched this new collection feels. We’re talking shell-inspired earrings, ethereal charm necklaces, goddess-worthy arm cuffs, and dreamy belts that make your whole outfit feel intentional.
My heart? Fully taken. My wishlist? Unmanageable.
Of course, I couldn’t resist pulling together a few runway gems for you – just for the moodboard (and maybe the dream cart). But don’t worry, I’ve also found amazing alternatives from smaller brands and boho experts like Isabel Marant.
If you're on the hunt for the perfect stone necklace, Project Under Maintenance should be your first stop – my own collection is begging for a few more pieces from them. And then there's Éliou, the ultimate cool-girl jewelry brand that never misses.
Now I want to hear from you: Are you ready to give long statement necklaces and boho jewelry a second chance? Or were you one of those owl-pendant girls I (lovingly!) teased at the beginning of this piece?
Still not over jewelry?
If you're craving more inspiration and want to see necklaces that blur the line between accessory and artwork, I highly recommend checking out my interview with Karl Monies from Copenhagen. We met last summer, and his approach to jewelry is truly one of a kind – sculptural, raw, and full of soul. (The interview is in German, by the way!)
This story gave me so much inspiration <3