Everyone Is Wearing Necklaces in 2026—These Are the 5 Specific Trends Set to Dominate This Summer
Trust me. They'll be everywhere by July 1.
Adorning my outfits with accessories, specifically necklaces, is my favorite part about getting dressed. I'm always in search of new jewelry trends to try, and now that it's almost summer, it's the perfect time to experiment. Shedded layers and showing more skin mean there's little room for experimenting with clothing, but that's where chic, eye-catching necklace trends come into play. And I've discovered the top ones to try out for the season that fit many aesthetics.
Whether you're into the minimalist, quiet luxury look or you're a bold dresser with maximalist taste, these are the necklace trends fashion people are wearing, and you'll want to try them before they're everywhere this summer. If you're in the market for a new piece or maybe even a few go-tos, keep scrolling to see all the up-and-coming necklace trends for the summer.
Chunky Beaded Necklaces
The runways of Saint Laurent and Chanel signaled a new era of jewelry, featuring chunky beaded necklaces. Now, the trend has trickled down to fashion people online, who are sporting chunky necklaces while on vacation or as a finishing touch to a simple outfit. Chunky beaded necklaces add elements of maximalism to even the plainest outfits, so if you're looking for ways to branch out of your comfort zone, this necklace trend is an easy solution.
Shop Chunky Beaded Necklaces
Fish-Motif Necklaces
Whimsy in fashion is so back. The fashion set has recently been infatuated with the fish motif, but my favorite form is in necklaces thanks to fashion house Chloé's S/S 25 runway collection, which featured a sea-creature theme. The trend is eye-catching and chic with a touch of fun in the mix. Whether you're into color or want to keep the motif simple, there are tons of options, and I've discovered some of the best ones.
Shop Fish-Motif Necklaces
Statement Pendants
Pendant necklaces had a major moment last spring and summer and continue to be a mainstay in the trend cycle, namely statement pendant necklaces. Fashion people are adding the chicest, most unique pendant necklaces to their looks. A head-turning necklace with a simple outfit has been calling my name for some time. You can add a statement pendant to a necklace stack like this look below, or you can keep things low-key if you prefer just wearing a pendant sans stack.
Shop Pendant Necklaces
Delicate Chains
Some trends are truly timeless, like delicate chain necklaces. While maximalism is a growing trend in jewelry, some in the fashion set are loyal to simple items that are long-lasting and timeless. I'm a fan of this mindset even though I love striking jewelry pieces. The "less is more" approach is always classic, especially regarding jewelry. Delicate necklaces have been popping up on my feed in the midst of maximalist jewelry trends, and I still find myself stopping to zoom in on each fine piece.
Shop Delicate Chain Necklaces
Collar Pendant Necklaces
Collar pendant necklaces have a dated reputation, but that is quickly changing as fashion people rediscover just how chic they can be. I've seen them styled with simple T-shirts and button-downs and with dressier pieces, from cinched blazers to long cardigans and blouses. At first, I was surprised to see the trend so easily welcomed, but the more outfits I saw, the more I was convinced it is here to stay for the long run.
Shop Collar Pendant Necklaces
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.
We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes; speak to external experts and fashion insiders; and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels, so you can feel confident in every recommendation.
Kerane Marcellus is a New York-based writer. She joined the Who What Wear team in 2025 after writing for Essence Magazine and freelancing for a number of other arts and culture publications. Fashion is a form of expression that she encourages everyone to take part in. There is no right or wrong in getting dressed! When she's not writing, she's reading in the park or gallery hopping in the city.