I’m usually quite predictable when it comes to jewellery. Give me a gold hoop, a chunky cuff and maybe a ring or two and I’m happy. Shell necklaces? Starfish earrings? They always felt a little too on-the-nose for me.
However this summer, jewellery inspired by the sea doesn’t feel like souvenir-shop territory anymore. It has structure, and lots of whimiscality. The best pieces scream “I’m on holiday.” Whether it’s a shell pendant hanging from a leather cord, coral-shaped earrings or a bracelet that looks like something washed up on the shore, coastal jewellery is by far one of my favourite trends this season.
The Shell Revival
Shells have very subtly shed their beach-holiday reputation. Instead of delicate cowrie necklaces, designers are working with oversized conch shapes, molten finishes and geometric forms that feel close to wearable art. They don’t need much styling either. A crisp white shirt, gold shell earrings and slicked-back hair is more than enough.
Jewellery With a Little More Colour
After what feels like years of wearing nothing but gold, the girls are actually enjoying seeing colour creep back into jewellery. Maybe it’s because summer wardrobes are naturally simpler, but turquoise, coral, candy reds and sea-glass greens suddenly make perfect sense. A beaded necklace instantly makes a white shirt look more interesting, and somehow looks even better when it’s mixed with pieces you already wear every day.
Fish, Starfish & Everything In Between
Fish pendants, starfish earrings and tiny ocean-inspired charms sound kitschy on paper, but brands are giving them a much cleaner, more refined finish. They’re playful without feeling childish, which is a difficult balance to get right.
More Is More
Minimal jewellery seems to have taken a back seat for now, and honestly, I’m not complaining. Oversized pendants, chunky studs and stacked necklaces bring a bit of personality back to getting dressed. If you’re going to wear a simple tank dress or an oversized linen shirt, your jewellery may as well do the talking.
