How to Wear Pearlcore, Spring's Most Nostalgic Fashion Trend

Getty/Jeremy Moeller
Getty/Jeremy Moeller
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Pearls have seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks in no small part to the prevalence of period dramas and the cottagecore movement. The TV shows and romanticized lifestyle trend have underscored the nostalgic mood that's taken over fashion lately, especially as people emerge from the pandemic. More and more, pearls are being incorporated into day-to-day looks, rather than being strictly reserved for costumes or special occasions.

Enter the pearlcore aesthetic, which refers to embellishing garments and accessories with pearls. Pinterest referenced it in its 2022 business report after noticing a spike in search traffic for pearl gowns, pearl wedding decorations, and pearl-themed parties. Around the world, and particularly in Australia, people were also looking up pearl bracelets, pearl chokers, and pearl nails to enliven their looks. The report predicted what we're now currently seeing, stating, "In 2022, people of all ages will embrace iridescent accents in their homes, in their jewelry boxes and even as nail art. Pearl-themed parties will be on the rise, too, as people opt for pearly gowns and wedding decor."

Pearlcore regularly receives celebrity endorsements, most remarkably with Barbie Ferreira's 2021 Met Gala debut gown, which was covered in pearls. We also spotted them again at this year's Met Gala, where "Gilded Glamour" was the theme and where Anitta's take on the trend involved dripping layers of pearls on her jewel-tone dress. And back in 2018, Kate Middleton wore elegant pearl earrings for the christening of her third child, Prince Louis.

If you are curious about pearlcore and want to know how to style pearl items with your wardrobe, read on for more.

What Is Pearlcore?

Pearlcore is a micro fashion and home-decor trend that involves using pearls and iridescent decor accents or beads that resemble them. From pearl necklaces to pearl-encrusted cardigans, these gems have found their way onto garments and accessories alike, giving them a regal update and plenty of visual interest. To go the DIY route, buy your own pearls and glue or sew them onto a pair of jeans, tote bag, or slip dress.

How Do I Style Pearl Items?

Pearls add dimension to any garment or accessory. The key is to let that piece shine by keeping the rest of the look relatively minimalist. Take, for example, a top-handle pearl bag, which can dress up a casual jeans-and-T-shirt outfit or enhance the inherent sophistication of a silk slip dress. Or consider a pearl-embellished denim jacket and wear it with an understated top and relaxed trousers. A striking piece — like Rosie Assoulin's pearl minidress — needs just a pair of kitten heels and small clutch to remain the star of the show.

If you're ready to embrace the pearlcore aesthetic, get started with these pieces ahead.

Pearl Jewelry: Caitlyn Minimalist Pearl Drop Earrings
etsy.com

Pearl Jewelry: Caitlyn Minimalist Pearl Drop Earrings

The understated elegance of these Caitlyn Minimalist Pearl Drop Earrings ($18, originally $26) stand out, making them a foundational piece in any jewelry rotation. The gold-tone metal complements the pearls beautifully, as will a satin slip dress or open-back blouse.

Pearl Clothes: David's Bridal Embellished Top
davidsbridal.com

Pearl Clothes: David's Bridal Embellished Top

Center your look around this stunning David's Bridal Embellished Top ($200), which will turn heads at the next wedding you attend. The string of pearls and rhinestones give it a gilded edge, while the plunging neckline and spaghetti straps keep it feminine and sweet. Pair it with a champagne-colored silk skirt for maximum visual impact.

Pearl Jewelry: H&M Double-Strand Necklace
www2.hm.com

Pearl Jewelry: H&M Double-Strand Necklace

Finish off your casual-Friday blazer uniform with this H&M Double-Strand Necklace ($10) for an understated touch of glam. The double strand layers on the charm, while the pearlescent plastic beads and beaded flowers will enhance plunging necklines, from V-neck minidresses to square-neck blouses.

Pearl Clothes: Sandro Porto Imitation Pearl Button Top
nordstrom.com

Pearl Clothes: Sandro Porto Imitation Pearl Button Top

Featuring short sleeves, a spread collar, and a row of imitation pearls as fasteners, this Sandro Porto Imitation Pearl Button Top ($245) is anything but average. Pair it with the matching pants for a striking monochrome moment or with your go-to denim jeans or skirt for a more relaxed look.

Pearl Jewelry: Mejuri Mini Pearl Satellite Bracelet
mejuri.com

Pearl Jewelry: Mejuri Mini Pearl Satellite Bracelet

Take this Mejuri Mini Pearl Satellite Bracelet ($98) out for a spin by pairing it with a blazer dress or a polished sweater vest. Whether you stack it with other bracelets or wear it separately, the dainty pearls and gold chain will make a subtle statement at the next office party or birthday celebration.

Pearl Flats: Stuart Weitzman Pearl Slide Sandals
shopbop.com

Pearl Flats: Stuart Weitzman Pearl Slide Sandals

For those who don't compromise on style or comfort, these Stuart Weitzman Pearl Slide Sandals ($295) are a favorite. The woven raffia material adds texture, while the pearl accents and gold-tone hardware bring a dose of glam.

Pearl Heels: Mach & Mach Diamond of Elizabeth Sandals
Net-a-Porter.com

Pearl Heels: Mach & Mach Diamond of Elizabeth Sandals

These Mach & Mach Diamond of Elizabeth Sandals ($1,150) are indeed quite the splurge, but you'll get plenty of mileage out of them. Wear with everything from office-ready shift dresses to flowy midi skirts. The rows of faux pearls and diamond embellishments offer up plenty of visual interest.

Pearl Clothes: & Other Stories Pearl Bead Mini Skirt
stories.com

Pearl Clothes: & Other Stories Pearl Bead Mini Skirt

Retro yet modern, this '60s-inspired & Other Stories Pearl Bead Mini Skirt ($99) is a classic choice for business meetings and first dates alike, especially when paired with a sweetheart-neckline top. The pockets make it super practical, while the pearl bead accents amp up the glamour.

Pearl Clothes: Zara Knit Cardigan
zara.com

Pearl Clothes: Zara Knit Cardigan

Channel your inner Regencycore fan in this Zara Knit Cardigan ($50). From the Peter Pan collar to the sunny shade of yellow, this sweater is equal parts sweet and playful. Style yours with tailored trousers and low-heeled mules for an elegant summer look.

Pearl Bags: Vanina La Riviere de Galets Handbag
nordstrom.com

Pearl Bags: Vanina La Riviere de Galets Handbag

All eyes will be on this Vanina La Riviere de Galets Handbag ($188, originally $375) wherever you go, thanks to the glistening beads that immediately catch the eye. Sized to fit just the essentials, it will brighten your favorite jeans-and-tank-top look or enhance an already dressy blazer-and-trousers combo.

Pearl Clothes: Rosie Assoulin Pearl Mini Dress
fwrd.com

Pearl Clothes: Rosie Assoulin Pearl Mini Dress

Ring in someone's new year with this Rosie Assoulin Pearl Mini Dress ($389, originally $995) that will turn heads on the dance floor, especially when paired with sleek heels. It is cut in a lightweight jersey fabric and features detachable pearl bead accents, a ruched bust, and ruching along the sides.

Pearl Clothes: Sunset & Spring Embellished Denim Jacket
bloomingdales.com

Pearl Clothes: Sunset & Spring Embellished Denim Jacket

Give your favorite layering staple a glam upgrade with this Sunset & Spring Embellished Denim Jacket ($128). The distressed garment is approachable and edgy, while the pearl embellishments are undeniably opulent. It's designed for an oversize fit, so you'll be comfortable as you throw it over a basic tank top or a chic, rib-knit dress.