How to Wear Pearls Casually: Modern and Chic Outfit Ideas

The purpose of this article is to show you how you can incorporate classic pearls into a modern ensemble. When envisioning pearls, the first thought that usually comes to mind is a pearl necklace, yet wearing pearl jewelry has more diverse possibilities – from bracelets made of mother-of-pearl and rings to charm necklaces.

We looked for inspiration from the most famous fine jewelry designers. We have noticed that combining pearls with gold and other brightly colored gemstones is a trend that has staying power. Creative combinations bring together classic sophistication and modern style.

We created modern, casual outfits that subtly featured pearls. When styling with these beautiful gems, the definition of ‘casual’ can be broadened – our garments fit both formal and elegant occasions yet remain classic overall. How to wear pearls casually might be a challenging task but here are some ideas to get you started.

How to style pearls with pants?

White wide-leg pants in a combination with green and gold

To construct the modern ensemble with pearls, the key rule is, to begin with, a white palette. In this example, wide-leg white pants provide a timeless foundation.

The second rule is the color block. The golden bangle decorated with mother of pearl and diamonds creates a contrast with the green silk blouse. Furthermore, this silk blouse is adorned with yellow and purple lilies, making it the ideal garment to pair with gold jewelry.

The third aspect is visual aesthetics. A silk shirt creates visual interest and space, while high-waisted trousers accentuate the waist to create a feminine silhouette.

The fourth dimension is the materials used. The silk shirt top has a pattern and the pants are monochrome. A gold bangle with mother of pearl and silk creates timeless elegance and femininity.

Casual in this example has a glamour, but is still perfect for meeting friends in the city.

Marina B: Soleil Gold and Mother of Pearl Bangle
Gucci: Pussy-Bow Floral-Print Green Silk Shirt
Valentino: Silk-Crepe Wide-Leg White Pants (Similar)

Pearl bracelets with an orange blouse

For this look, we chose wide-leg trousers and paired them with an orange blouse. The pearl bracelet with gold elements brings out the yellow and orange hues of the blouse. Try gold earrings embellished with pearls for more light reflection on your face.

David Yurman: Bijoux Spiritual Pearls and Gold Bracelet
Ulla Johnson: Kaya Gathered Tie-Dyed Orange Cotton Blouse
Valentino: Silk-Crepe Wide-Leg White Pants (Similar)

Pearl charm necklace and jeans

With the youthful charm necklace, you can either replicate each of its colors in your outfit or create a color-block look.

The golden necklace is highlighted by pink gemstones, and embellished with white pearls.

We chose to create a color block with light blue sequined jeans. This additional decoration of jeans looks more festive, but ordinary denim in blue or black would also work perfectly. To balance the look, we chose a white knitted top with short sleeves and gold buttons.

To complete this casual but modern take with a twist, choose white chunky sneakers.

Pearl earrings for a summer look

In this summer ensemble, we chose to create a base with a white embroidered top and green flared pants.

When styling an outfit, it is essential to consider which elements of the outfit are the most dominant and use jewelry to draw attention away from it. In this example, an embroidered top with puff sleeves and a ribbon bow is the central figure of the ensemble.

We chose to draw attention to the face and give it a light reflection with pearl earrings. As an alternative, you can choose pearl drop earrings or a pearl choker. However, a long pearl necklace or a bracelet would not be the best choice.

The golden hue of the jewelry serves as a contrast to the green flared pants, creating an interesting visual. In terms of aesthetics, a cropped top with a V-neckline pairs perfectly with high-waist flared pants.

How to wear pearl jewelry with a dress?

White shirt dress and pearl ring

For this outfit, we chose a white shirt dress as the main element. To create a summer ensemble, we accessorized with raffia mules and an elegant pearl gold ring adorned with diamonds. Bring more light to the face with a pair of earrings with natural pearls.

To complete the outfit, add bright-colored items such as a silk scarf or a handbag.

Flower-print dress with gold and pearls bangle

We chose a floral-print dress with a white background and combined it with golden elements – pearls and diamonds bangle with slides. A sleeveless dress looks great with bracelets, you can wear several gold bracelets in different patterns at the same time.

To add visual interest, consider incorporating green or orange accents like a silk scarf or handbag.

How to style pearls with a skirt?

Pearl ring and a maxi leather skirt

We created a classic outfit with a floral-print top and an ivory maxi leather skirt as a base.

The blouse with a ribbon is the main focus, while the gold pearl ring helps to divert attention. You can also wear a gold bracelet or pearl earrings, but choose one of these steering wheels, as three different pieces of jewelry in one ensemble would be too much.

Pearl and turquoise pendant with a ruffled skirt

This outfit is a perfect summer ensemble. All elements are expressive, so the shoes and handbag should be neutral. One shoulder-ruffled top creates the base.

When wearing this pearl and turquoise charm, choose a gold chain that is not too long, otherwise, it will not look neat with ruffles.

Storrow showed in an example how this charm is combined with a pearl necklace. However, choosing pearl necklaces in our example would not create visual coherence.

How to wear pearl jewelry with a suit?

Red suit with pearls and turquoise charm

In this example, we wanted to illustrate that white natural pearls can be combined with brighter colors.

We chose a double-breasted blazer emphasizing the feminine silhouette with high-waisted wide-leg pants. The turquoise and white pearls contrast beautifully with the dark red and blue suit.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored how various pearl jewelry pieces can be used to elevate any outfit. Pearl jewelry is a timeless accessory and can be used to complement both casual and formal looks. Whether you choose a single pendant necklace, pair of earrings, or bracelet, it can be a great addition to any ensemble and will add a special touch of sophistication.

Knowing some rules will help you to incorporate pearls into your casual or slightly dressier or more formal outfit. Choose modern gold jewelry with mother of pearls or with natural pearls. A white base color in your outfit will create a great start to wearing pearls.

With these tips and examples, you will have a better understanding of how to wear pearls casually with different outfits.

Featured image by Efigie lima Marcos.

How to Wear Pearls Casually: Modern and Chic Outfit Ideas

How to style pearls with pants?