This Nostalgic, ’90s Jewelry Trend Is Back And Better Than Ever

The shell jewelry trend you see all over your Pinterest and Instagram feeds is much more grown-up than the shell necklaces you might’ve owned in the ’90s (cue the surfer dudes in puka shells). Statement jewelry, whether it be chunky silver cuffs, structural earrings, or shell-inspired pieces, is making a comeback—and not in the kitschy, maximalist way you might think. Shell jewelry sounds straight out of a gift shop, but in summer 2024, it’s much more sophisticated. Dainty shell pendants or sculptural shell earrings will transport you to a tropical getaway while somehow remaining office-appropriate. Shell motifs don’t feel too on-the-nose, and instead, are infused with signature silhouettes that feel timeless for wearing this summer, and beyond.

Contrary to what you might believe, TikTok isn’t spearheading this one—instead, it’s co-signed across luxury and retail brands. Models at the Roberto Cavalli Spring/Summer 2024 show were styled with minimalist shell-corded necklaces. At Ulla Johnson’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection, intricate beaded necklaces with shell pendants and earrings fit right into the designer’s boho-chic aesthetic. Sandy Liang’s Spring 2024 Ready-to-Wear show had models in minimalist casual wear with pops of freshwater pearl earrings and shell studs. Amidst the mermaidcore of years past, the emphasis on feminine, girlhood-inspired pieces, and a necessity for actually wearable styles, the shell jewelry trend fits right in.

Jewelry is personal, but there’s a bevy of shell statements to shop, from higher-end brands like Tory Burch and Jennifer Behr, to under-$50 pieces from Zara, Mango, Anthropologie, and more. For those who want to try out the trend but aren’t in the market for new jewelry, shell-inspired hair clips are a pretty alternative. We’ve rounded up our favorite shell pieces of the summer, plus some inspiration on how to style them.

Earrings

Earrings are the subtlest way to make a sartorial shell statement. Where some shell earrings are adorned with gemstones, others have freshwater pearl accents for a more literal take on the trend. No matter which one catches your eye, style them with a basic white tank, a linen skirt, and mesh sandals for weekend strolls.

Necklaces

Seashell necklaces are for the maximalist. Zara’s corded rope necklace is similar to those shown at Cavalli, while J.Crew’s chunky white shell necklace is the puka-shell necklace all grown up. Style these with a sundress and sandals for your next vacation.

Hair Clips

A shell barrette and clip is the practical, easygoing option for styling shell jewelry. You can throw a clip in your summer purse for laidback days, or style your hair in a mermaid updo with a shell clip for a date night out.