The trend of shell jewelry that you see everywhere in your Pinterest and Instagram feeds is much more adult than the shell necklaces that you may have owned in the 90s (cue the Puka shell surfers). Trendy jewelry, whether it’s chunky silver cuffs, textured earrings or shell-inspired pieces, is making a comeback – and not in the kitschy, maximalist way you might think. Shell jewelry seems straight out of a gift shop, but in the summer of 2024 it is much more sophisticated. Small shell pendants or sculptural shell earrings will transport you to a tropical getaway while remaining somehow worthy of an office. The shell motifs don’t feel too directly on the nose and are instead finished with iconic silhouettes that feel timeless this summer and beyond.
Contrary to what you might think, TikTok is not leading this one — instead, it is co-signed by luxury and retail brands. The models of the Roberto Cavalli Spring / Summer 2024 show were styled with minimalist shell necklaces. In Ulla Johnson’s Spring / Summer 2024 collection, intricate pearl necklaces with shell pendants and earrings fit perfectly into the designer’s Boho-Chic aesthetic. Sandy Liang’s Spring 2024 ready-to-wear show featured models in minimalist casual clothes with freshwater pearl earrings and shell studs. In the midst of the mermaid core of past years, the emphasis on feminine pieces inspired by girls and a need for truly wearable styles, the shell jewelry trend fits perfectly.
Jewelry is personal, but there are a variety of Shell statements to buy, from high-end brands like Tory Burch and Jennifer Behr to pieces under $50 from Zara, Mango, Anthropologie, etc. For those who want to try the trend but are not looking for new jewelry, shell-inspired hair clips are a nice Alternative. We gathered our favorite summer shell pieces and gave us some style inspiration.
Earring
Earrings are the most subtle way to make a fashionable shell statement. Where some shell earrings are adorned with precious stones, others have freshwater pearl accents for a more literal interpretation of the trend. No matter what catches your eye, wear them with a simple white tank top, a linen skirt and fishnet sandals for weekend walks.
Collar
Shell chains are for the maximalist. Zara’s drawstring rope necklace is similar to the one shown in Cavalli, while J. Crew’s big white shell necklace is the Puka all grown up shell necklace. Pair them with a summer dress and sandals for your next vacation.
Hair Clip
A shell pliers and a Shell Clip are the practical and simple Option for styling shell jewelry. You can throw a Clip in your summer handbag for relaxed days or style your hair in a mermaid bun with a seashell clip for a romantic evening.