Ask Belle: Statement Necklaces, Yea or Nay?
Sep 29, 2014
Hi Belle,
Are big “statement” necklaces over? You seem to be featuring simpler ones these days, but I really like the large ones, and I’m hoping that I’m not hopelessly off-trend?
What are your thoughts? DG
This is a two-pronged answer because not all necklaces are created equal. Overly large necklaces, like the bubble necklaces that were everywhere in 2012, are out of style. They’re just too big and too heavy, and the J.Crew-knock-offs seem very dated (perhaps because they were so popular when they first came out).
You need to decide what kind of statement you want to make. Is it big? Is it colorful? Is it textured? This Kate Spade necklace has an art deco feel and a versatile, neutral color palette. Looking for art deco for less? Check out this necklace from The Limited and this one from Forever21.
Unless you plan to wear a large necklace regularly (ala Diane Lockhart on The Good Wife), I wouldn’t spend more than $50 on one. Some more expensive ones that I really love include this onyx, multi-strand necklace from Kate Spade and this beautiful teal-agate necklace.
Looking in a more conservative price point? I like this geometric necklace from Charlotte Russe; it would look great with a black crew neck sweater. This Cara necklace with shades of blush and black is long and impactful. My favorite necklace that I found was from Chico’s in shades of gold, black and blue. If you want something daintier, they make a similar single strand version.
I’ve seen BaubleBar advertising a ton of statement necklaces recently, but theirs tend to be super over the top, like this one https://www.baublebar.com/stardust-phoenix-bib-necklace.html
Yay or nay on the bib-style statement necklaces?
I think that necklace is gorgeous. I think it’s over the top for work, but would look great with an LBD for cocktail party or formal event.
I really like unique, interesting statement necklaces and am making them a signature piece of my work wardrobe. I love Diane Lockhart’s style, and I never connected that she wore a lot of statement necklaces too. And yes to the teal agate necklace… if only I had $400.
Etsy is a good go-to source. If you find a style you like, you might be able to order it in more than one color: Amethyst: https://www.etsy.com/listing/194048732/amethyst-necklace-gemstone-beaded?ref=sc_3&plkey=41c23bcef40785d07ea0a00a493360d35f00b31c%3A194048732&ga_search_query=multistrand+necklace&ga_ref=auto3&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery
I think it depends on what you are wearing. I think a statement necklace goes great with a basic (slightly boring otherwise) outfit or to make a feminine look a bit edgier (or vice versa).