Ever since the 1930s when fashion designer Coco Chanel famously layered heaping strands of faux pearls around her neck and shoulders, the sophisticated gem has been synonymous with the French. While classic pearls have ridden waves of being in and out of the fashion spotlight, we can say with confidence that 2019 is undeniably the year of the pearl. The fashion crowd has been donning them all over Instagram—from stylistic pearl earrings to pearls emblazoned on fitted cardigans and trending hair clips snapped nonchalantly into undone hair. Pearls made an unmistakable appearance all over the S/S 19 runways too. There were statement single earrings at Oscar de la Renta and pearl belts and iconic layered necklaces that got a modern touch at Chanel.
Loved by first ladies, royalty (Kate Middleton is a fan), and style icon Carrie Bradshaw, pearls undoubtedly add a touch of elegance to any outfit. Scroll below to see how French women are giving them a modern touch and adding the gem to their outfits this season.
Musier
Clara Cardigan
The cool new way French women wear their pearls? Embellished as buttons on fitted cardigans. This charming cardigan sweater by Musier is a favorite among the style set.
Erdem
Fari Faux Pearl-Embellished Grosgrain Mules
Is there anything chicer than pearls embellished on black mules? The French are into it—and so are we.
Reliquia
Seashell Imitation Pearl Earrings
Trending pearl earrings add the perfect finishing touch to an effortlessly chic outfit.
Mango
Pearls Bag
Pearl bags have been seen hanging on the arms of our favorite French fashion girls for some time now, and they're undoubtedly the accessory of choice for more casual outfits.
Pearls of all different shapes and sizes with special detailing are preferred to cookie-cutter round pearls.
Miu Miu
Pearl Button Oversize Cardigan
Just add cropped jeans, black heels, and a tweed Chanel bag, and you're practically French.
Mizuki
14-Karat Gold Pearl Earrings
The French don't tend to "dress up" for a night out as much as Americans do, but they spruce up outfits with accessories like long-string pearl earrings (preferably worn in just one ear à la Caroline de Maigret).
Maje
Embellished Knitted Cardigan
Say oui to embellished pearl cardigans in neutral hues.
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.