Summer’s languid pace is a natural decelerator for the speed at which the hypersonic trend cycle moves, and no category feels this change more than jewellery. When we’re preoccupied with trying to figure out which Mediterranean destination to visit for Euro summer, the chicest new hot spot to sip a glass of pét nat at or deciding which balmy dress will earn our affection, there’s less demand for new styling techniques or fresh silhouettes.
Given the timeless nature of jewellery, there are often far fewer cries for novel creations and new designs anyway, so when a specific bracelet or earring breaks through and becomes mainstream, we pay attention. This summer, it’s apparent that pendant necklaces are the only summer jewellery trend of note.
Though more discerning shoppers might tell you about their investments in polished torque chokers or ‘90s-inspired bicep bracelets, the majority of fashion people are all collectively gravitating towards boho-esque pendants that are fixed to cords and sit lower around their décolletage. Influenced by Elsa Peretti’s work for Tiffany & Co., this style ranges from the organically shaped to the more practical, but none is more enduring than the simple shell necklace.
Indeed, after cropping up over the last few summers, this season feels like shell necklaces have finally hit a fever pitch, spotted on the most tasteful in New York, London, Copenhagen and Mallorca. This time around, this trend is rendering scallop and cockle shells into wearable art, be it through pearlescent pieces that swing from lustrous cords, similar to the ones brought out by Jennifer Behr, or the silver styles seen at Juju Vera.
Summer is always a time to take a literal approach to dressing, which is why you’ll always see pieces like fisherman sandals or crochet skirts emerge time after time. (Though, wearing these right now might have you looking like an extra from Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of The Odyssey.)
Viral aesthetics like surf-core, which takes cues from nostalgic early 2000s films like Blue Crush and Point Break, are also proving how easy it is to dress for hot weather by slipping into a pair of boardshorts and chunky flip-flops. But for those wanting something a little sleeker, the shell necklace is a chicer way to acknowledge your desire to be by the coast, even if you are staying in the city.
So, to avoid looking like a washed-up siren, opt for scintillating metallics or carved stone dangled from thick cord. Or, to make matters more convenient, simply scroll through for Who What Wear UK’s edit of the most stylish shell necklaces to shop for summer 2026.
Shop the Chic Shell Necklace Trend to Wear This Summer:
Inspired by antique heirlooms, this style is handmade from silver and anchored by five pear-shaped drops that sway gently as you move.
A specialist in semi-precious stones and crystals, Jennifer Behr applies her practice of scintillating jewels to natural wonders like this black-brown calico pectin scallop seashell and freshwater pearl necklace.
For those looking for a quick fix, rather than taking their time labouring over an investment piece, don't forget the high street is a mecca for these types of trends.
Heaven Mayhem have become somewhat of a pioneer in accessibly-priced, albeit incredibly-crafted elevated accessories.
This unique turban shell that is imbued with the spirit of the sea. It's flanked by resin beads that give this piece a lived-in and well-loved quality.
The turquoise crystal brings a rich dimension to this otherwise minimal style, making it a perfect addition to banal pieces like cornflower blue shirts and black wide-leg trousers.
A conch shell is the most contemporary version of the trend. But fear not, it won't have you living out any Lord of the Flies fantasies.
Delicate and ethereal, the wispy ribbon is the perfect contrast against this aquatic centrepiece.