Like the bubbles in a glass of champagne, pearls have made a heady statement in 2018 with the incarnation of minimalist designs that are fresh and on-trend. Perfect for stacking and layering, classic pearls have been re-imagined as a modern fashion staple- making them covetable everyday accessories.

Powerful pearlescence has dominated the catwalks this season with designers presenting exciting new ways to wear pearls and pearl jewellery. Here at Astley Clarke we’ve taken our best-selling, demi-fine Stilla pieces, many of them adorned with colourful gemstones signature to Astley Clarke, and replaced them with iridescent pearl orbs and complementary metal hues for a softer, pastel palette.

Introducing the new Pearl Stilla Collection, we present a minimalist, versatile offering that adds elegance to any outfit. It also proposes the perfect bridal option for a more traditional and understated grace that is less overt than classic diamond jewellery.

‘Pearls are always appropriate.’ Jackie Kennedy

Universally flattering, the pearl’s milky white hue adds instant luminosity to the face and is extremely complementary. Rihanna radiated style prowess at the 2018 Met Gala with her pearl-embellished Maison Margiela Artisanal gown by John Galliano, with matching robe and headpiece.

For something a little more subtle but just as impressive, modern silhouettes featuring cultured freshwater pearls are adding a fresh, youthful take on pearl jewellery classics, allowing for creativity and modern styling choices that will make you stand out from the crowd this summer.

Hoop earrings have long been associated with streetwear, so juxtaposing pearls with hoops makes for an interesting pairing. Discreet enough to be stacked, our Pearl Hazel Hoop Earrings and Pearl Vera Drop Hoop Earrings add a refined touch to your multiple piercings. Available in the classic white pearl or the more unique blush tones of the pink pearl these precious pieces work perfectly against all skin tones. Alternatively, wear them solo as timeless styling accessories for a summer wedding, or consider them as a gift for your bridesmaids.

Drop earrings are also trending this season and their pairing with pearls offers a new styling option to the classic pearl stud. Our Pearl Stilla Chain Earrings are crafted in 18 carat yellow gold vermeil and interpret the traditional string of white pearls in modern earring form.

If you prefer wearing your pearls around your neck, gracefully adorn your décolletage with our modern Pearl Peggy Necklaces with graduating pearls on sterling silver and gold vermeil chains.
Alternatively, mix and match geometric ring shapes for an impactful style as our range of pearl rings wrap themselves artfully around the finger, beautifully contrasting and complementing our Interstellar and Aubar jewellery pieces.

‘The pearl is the oyster’s autobiography.’ Federico Fellini

Worn as an adornment for millennia this miracle of nature is the perfect accessory for your summer holidays. From its humble beginnings as a grain of sand, its transformation into a shimmering, nacreous gemstone makes the pearl a truly unique complement to any summer wardrobe. Now widely available in cultured freshwater variations, these elegant gemstones have a versatile aesthetic and are also affordable.

Challenge yourself to rethink how you match your pearls with your sartorial choices. Wear pearl jewellery casually by pairing pearl pendants and stacked bracelets with Tom Ford inspired denim wear, or a plain white t-shirt. Alternatively, team your pearls with a ruffled blouse and light tailored trousers as you enjoy a cocktail by the beach or romantic meal overlooking the Italian lakes. These looks work well for day or night, from casual everyday to formal fashion.

So don’t forget to pack your pearls this summer for everyday elegance that hints at Audrey Hepburn but with a modern edge.

Feeling inspired? Shop all pearl jewellery here.