Close up of dress hemline and hand holding a pearl bag

Pearlcore is the Classy Trend We’re All Wearing Right Now
Fashion / 2 months ago

The world is your oyster

This post may contain affiliate links. Learn more

Pearlcore was one of the biggest trends of 2022, taking the runway, high street and our wardrobes by storm. As genderless fashion flourishes in 2023, pearly staples are set to be more popular than ever. As Grace Kelly once said, ‘the pearl is the queen of gems and the gem of queens’.

The Country & Town House Responsible Buyers’ Guide

Trending for 2023: Pearlcore

According to Pinterest, in 2022 ‘people of all ages embraced iridescent accents in their homes, in their jewellery boxes and even as nail art. Pearl-themed parties were on the rise, too, as people opted for pearly gowns and wedding décor.’

But what exactly makes pearls so special? Considered a symbol of perfection, long life and fertility, the pearl has long been considered a valuable gemstone. Found buried in oyster shells, pearls are the hidden treasures of the sea. Like most precious gems, you have to dig deep to find them – and the result is certainly worth the effort.

Model in white fur coat and pearls walking down runway

Online searches for pearl dresses tripled in 2021, while searches for pearl-themed parties and pearl rings (perfect for weddings) both doubled. An interest in men’s jewellery, in particular pearl necklaces, also soared, with searches increasing seven-fold.

Some of the world’s most acclaimed designers are already ahead of the curve when it comes to embracing all things pearly. Simone Rocha, the Irish designer known for her whimsically dreamy collections, never shies away from pearls when it comes to crafting her signature look. Her recent SS23 collection was testament to this, showcasing Rocha’s love of pearl accessories and iridescent fabrics.

Simone Rocha SS23 (c) Ben Broomfield

Celebrities have also been a key driving force in the trend, with the likes of Kate Middleton, Harry Styles, Griff and Adele all incorporating a statement pearl or two into their wardrobes. In Harry’s case, Pearlcore has also presented an opportunity to blend the boundaries between masculine and feminine fashion.

Harry Styles in a black shirt wearing a pearl earring, at the MET Gala 2019

Want to get involved with the Pearlcore trend? As always, keep the planet in mind when shopping. Re-wearing old clothes is the best way to be sustainable, but if you can’t avoid it then shop consciously at responsible retailers, as well as rental and resale sites.