Pearls

The Pearl Necklace Aesthetic: From Classic to Avant Garde

Written by Diana
The Pearl Necklace Aesthetic: From Classic to Avant Garde

Hero cottagecore necklace is from BARYADESIGN on Etsy

Pearls have been a classic jewelry staple for literal centuries, but they’ve only recently become the new go-to accessory for people who are into aesthetic fashion.

What happened?

The internet happened, I think. It got so easy to start creating your own designs and selling them on marketplaces like Etsy, and fashion got much more fun for it.

Thanks to this, pearls are no longer reserved for classic 50s aesthetic outfits and elegant office wear.

Also, the prices got way more friendly.

Whether it’s a single stunning pearl pendant or multiple strands of baroque pearls, the pearl necklace aesthetic is modern, versatile and can be adapted to any look.

Let’s explore how you can take your favorite pearl necklaces from classic to avant garde.

Types of Pearls

The first step to creating a specific pearl necklace aesthetic is understanding what type of pearls you can choose from.

  • Freshwater pearls

Freshwater pearls come in irregular, button and drop shapes with colors ranging from natural whites and creams to soft pinks and light blues. This is the type of pearl that looks less classic and is sometimes called the baroque pearl. Real natural freshwater pearls can also be quite affordable - more here.

  • Keshi pearls

Keshi pearls are small seawater pearls that are irregularly shaped and are also called the baroque pearl. They come in an array of natural colors including yellow, green and black.

Good Etsy vendors: TheVeryPearl

  • South Sea pearls

South Sea pearls are perfectly round and generally larger than freshwater pearls. They come in shades of white, silver, gold and grey.

Good Etsy vendors: TheSouthSeaPearls

  • Akoya pearls

Akoya pearls are the smallest sized cultured pearls typically found in white or cream colors.

Good Etsy vendors: PernuloStudio

  • Tahitian pearls

Tahitian pearls are known for their unique dark tones ranging from deep blacks to greens, purples and blues. These darker pearls are much more suitable than your regular pearl for witchy aesthetic outfits and other darker styles.

Good Etsy vendors: TheSouthSeaPearls, PernuloStudio

Pearl necklaces in aesthetic fashion

Pearl necklaces bring elegance and sophistication to any outfit. Whether you’re a fan of minimalism, bohemian chic, or something a little more dramatic, there is a pearl necklace that can match your style.

Most necklaces below are around the 40 USD mark, but generally they go between 20-80 USD on Etsy.

Danish Pastel Necklaces: Any dainty white or pink pearls

If you’re looking for something a little more delicate, tiny white seawater pearls are a great choice. These necklaces are perfect for the Danish pastel aesthetic, especially when layered together. Whether you go for a single strand or multiple strands, these necklaces will bring a subtle touch of elegance to your look.

[both] Cute and aesthetic pearl and beads chokers on Etsy: UNICjewelleryStore

Coconut girl aesthetic: Pearls and fimo

Coconut girl aesthetic jewelry is the perfect way to add a tropical touch to any look. It features a range of playful and vibrant pieces, from delicate necklaces with pearl pendants, to bold and colorful creations made with bright beads and fimo. Many necklaces will also feature shells and other beach-inspired elements, which gives them a summery, playful vibe.

Pink fimo and freshwater pearls in this necklace from Etsy: BARYADESIGN

Witchy Vibe or 70s and Hippie Aesthetics: Tahiti pearl

For a more witchy vibe, Tahiti pearl necklaces are the way to go. With their unique dark shades, these necklaces are sure to add an air of mystery to any outfit. Whether you opt for a single strand or a daring choker design, these necklaces will give your look a touch of gothic glamour.

Witchy dark Tahitian pearl necklace on Etsy: PernuloStudio

Goth and punk vibes: Classic Pearls on Black Leather Cord!

Whichever type of pearl necklaces you decide to go for, it is known that pearls are sure to add a touch of class and sophistication to your outfit.

But did you know that they can add a touch of rock’n’roll too?

childofwild.com

Cottagecore with a Statement: Baroque pearl necklace

For those looking to make a bold statement, baroque pearl necklaces are a great way to spice up a minimalist look. From the classic single strand to more Victorian designs, these necklaces are sure to draw attention.

Cottagecore-inspired Keshi pearl necklace on Etsy: skinstudiojewelry

Boho aesthetics: Any dainty but irregular pearls in stacks

As you can see, whether you’re looking for something bold and daring or something more subtle and delicate, pearl necklaces are the perfect way to elevate your look.

Etsy: JordanSkyJewelry

Etsy: annieandcojewelry

Clothing Style

The next step is choosing what clothes you want to wear with your pearl necklaces. If you want a more classic look don’t hesitate to pair them with timeless pieces like blazers, crisp white shirts or cardigans for an elegant style that never goes out of fashion. To achieve a more avant garde feel pair your pearl necklaces with off-shoulder tops, oversized T-shirts or even jumpsuits for an edgy yet classy look.

Hairstyle for an aesthetic pearl necklace

For the perfect hairstyle when wearing your favorite pearl necklaces opt for something effortless yet stylish like messy fishtail braids or beach waves that will perfectly frame your face while still showing off your stunning accessory. Opting for a chic updo like a French twist bun will also give you a sophisticated look while still keeping all the attention on your pearl necklaces!


To put it simply, pearl necklaces have always been seen as classic jewelry pieces but in the second decade of 21st century, they can be just as versatile as any other accessory!

There are many types of pearl necklaces each offering their own unique vibe – from classic to avant garde – so don’t be afraid to mix things up by pairing them with various clothing styles like blazers or off-shoulder tops depending on the look you want to create.

Add in some effortless hairstyles such as braids or buns and you will have the perfect combination of beauty and elegance every time! So go ahead – let those beautiful pearls shine!