Suddenly, Everyone Is Wearing This "Dated" Necklace, and It Couldn't Look Chicer

There's something enthralling about the rise of a new trend. It always starts the same; bubbling under the surface with a few individual sightings, and then suddenly, in the blink of an eye, a certain piece or particular style is everywhere you look. For months I've kept track of one particular jewellery trend that has been slowly but steadily growing in popularity, shimmering on the necklines of fashion people and celebrities alike, and that's the tennis necklace. 

Jessica Skye wears Daphine's Chris Cubic Zirconia & 18kt Gold-Plated Necklace (£280). 

Like the tennis bracelet, both pieces were coined as such in the late '80s after tennis player Chris Evert lost her necklace during a match. The tennis necklace can be recognised by its single row of repeating diamonds (or gemstones, depending on your budget). The design itself is so classic that I'd originally written it off as out of my price range, but when I did a little browsing, I actually found tennis necklaces at varied price points. 

At one time, this kind of glistening statement piece would have been saved for the very best of occasions, but in the spirit of the "old money" aesthetic—and potentially now the "mob wife" trend too—all eyes are on elevating the everyday. I've spotted these necklaces embellishing the crew necks of simple T-shirts and draped over the necklines of soft jumpers; worn on their own or layered up with other chains and pendants in a personalised stack. Of course, you can still wear a tennis necklace with your LBD for your next evening event, but this new way to wear adds a little shimmer to the ordinary days, too. 

Chiara Perera styles her tennis necklace with a simple white T-shirt. 

Ready to bring a little sparkle into your life? Scroll on for my favourite tennis necklaces. 

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Next Up: Not All Jewellery Is Created Equal—These 5 Chic Trends Matter the Most in 2024