The shell jewelry trend you see all over your Pinterest and Instagram feeds is much more grown-up than the shell necklaces you might’ve owned in the ’90s (cue the surfer dudes in puka shells). Statement jewelry, whether it be chunky silver cuffs, structural earrings, or shell-inspired pieces, is making a comeback—and not in the kitschy, maximalist way you might think. Shell jewelry sounds straight out of a gift shop, but in summer 2024, it’s much more sophisticated. Dainty shell pendants or sculptural shell earrings will transport you to a tropical getaway while somehow remaining office-appropriate. Shell motifs don’t feel too on-the-nose, and instead, are infused with signature silhouettes that feel timeless for wearing this summer, and beyond.
Contrary to what you might believe, TikTok isn’t spearheading this one—instead, it’s co-signed across luxury and retail brands. Models at the Roberto Cavalli Spring/Summer 2024 show were styled with minimalist shell-corded necklaces. At Ulla Johnson’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection, intricate beaded necklaces with shell pendants and earrings fit right into the designer’s boho-chic aesthetic. Sandy Liang’s Spring 2024 Ready-to-Wear show had models in minimalist casual wear with pops of freshwater pearl earrings and shell studs. Amidst the mermaidcore of years past, the emphasis on feminine, girlhood-inspired pieces, and a necessity for actually wearable styles, the shell jewelry trend fits right in.
Jewelry is personal, but there’s a bevy of shell statements to shop, from higher-end brands like Tory Burch and Jennifer Behr, to under-$50 pieces from Zara, Mango, Anthropologie, and more. For those who want to try out the trend but aren’t in the market for new jewelry, shell-inspired hair clips are a pretty alternative. We’ve rounded up our favorite shell pieces of the summer, plus some inspiration on how to style them.
Earrings
Earrings are the subtlest way to make a sartorial shell statement. Where some shell earrings are adorned with gemstones, others have freshwater pearl accents for a more literal take on the trend. No matter which one catches your eye, style them with a basic white tank, a linen skirt, and mesh sandals for weekend strolls.
Mejuri
I love the gold detail on these Merjuri Studs.
Jennifer Behr
The pearl accent is so chic.
Heaven Mayhem
Heaven Mayhem’s under-$100 studs put a sophisticated, vintage twist on the classic seashell silhouette.
Madewell
The genuine shell feel is so fun.
Anthropologie
Another sculptural take on the seashell silhouette (and they’re under $50).
Anthropologie
The pink shell on these adds a nice pop of color.
Ettika
The diamond stud, pearl, and swirl shell are the perfect combination.
Tory Burch
This Tory Burch pair is my favorite splurge-worthy piece.
Necklaces
Seashell necklaces are for the maximalist. Zara’s corded rope necklace is similar to those shown at Cavalli, while J.Crew’s chunky white shell necklace is the puka-shell necklace all grown up. Style these with a sundress and sandals for your next vacation.
Jennifer Behr
The sea glass shells and pearl beads are stunning.
Zara
This is a dupe for the Cavalli roped necklaces.
Mango
This necklace from Mango is currently on sale.
Moda Operandi
The bright orange cord and pink shell is a mood-boosting color combination.
Kendra Scott
This Kendra Scott option is for the minimalist.
J.Crew
I love the chunky texture on this necklace.
Moda Operandi
This necklace is truly a work of art.
Hair Clips
A shell barrette and clip is the practical, easygoing option for styling shell jewelry. You can throw a clip in your summer purse for laidback days, or style your hair in a mermaid updo with a shell clip for a date night out.
Free People
This under-$10 clip would look so pretty clipped in a bun.
J.Crew
The tortoise-shell and pearly pink colors look so chic paired together.
Moda Operandi
If I were buying one thing from this list, It’d be this gold clip from Lelet. It’s definitely a splurge, but is one you could make use of for summers to come.
Free People
This barrette is the definition of mermaidcore.