I walked past them at Walmart (shortcuts through the jewelry section are always dangerous) and immediately wanted them. Those turquoise beads called my name, but I held back. I only own one skirt they’d match. Still, I thought I saw a similar pair on my friend Ana and I knew they’d blend well with the plethora of peach things I own, so I bought them.
The Value Lies in the Versatility
1. A simple string of light-colored beads (think light pink, ivory, or opaque) can contribute an understated classiness. Jacqueline Kennedy’s timeless pearls come to mind. Even without the white gloves, you can achieve the same Classic look with a quick clasp of faux pearls.
2. In addition to being classy, beaded necklaces go with just about anything. With shirts that boast high necklines and a long line of buttons, beads may detract and even look gaudy. But that cow neck cap-sleeve blouse that leaves your neck bare or even the simple turtleneck may benefit from the beaded necklace.
3. A bright pop of color around one’s neck shouts happy. They don’t necessarily have to “match” the outfit you’re wearing, but they do have to “blend.” In other words, the peach wrap I’m wearing looks even more summeresque when paired with my favorite faux jade beads.
4. The potential for versatility abounds. Try pairing a strand of thin beads with thick. Consider braving several loops or going with one long rope. A simple shirt turns into an outfit with the right pairing of beads.
How To Choose the Right Beads For You
1. Know that you don’t have to spend a fortune. Pearls are expensive, but the faux kind work just as well (and you’ll be more likely to wear them if you’re not afraid of breaking them!).
2. Choose colors you actually like. If you cringed at my pairing of peach and turquoise up there, don’t buy turquoise. Perhaps you would prefer a pale pink or ivory. Maybe darker colors such as purple or navy blue make you smile. If you like it, you’ll wear it.
3. Think about your closet. If you don’t have a blouse that navy blue beads would “blend” with, pick the purple ones instead. Perhaps visit your closet with the express purpose of tabbing a few tops and dresses that you think would go well with a beaded necklace. What colors would look well with all or most of them? Try checking out color swatches on Pinterest.
5. Watch the weight. Hold the whole necklace in the palm of your hand to gauge whether or not it will be too heavy to wear. If you’re still not sure, try supporting the necklace with your ring finger (your weakest finger) midway between your nail and your knuckle. If your finger shakes, the necklace may be too heavy.
4. Be brave. I almost didn’t buy those turquoise beads because I wasn’t sure they were entirely “me.” Now they’re one of my favorite necklaces. Don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new. You may just find your new favorite accessory.
Do you own a pair of beads?
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About Rachelle Rea
Rachelle is an author and editor who would much rather shop for books than for clothes (this must be why malls were invented). Her favorite accessories are a smile and a scarf. Her debut novel releases next year.
Lovely Rachelle! I admit to not wearing beaded necklaces enough…I wear charms on a normal necklace length because I end up wearing t-shirt like shirts at home mostly. 🙂 I only have one string of “pearls” that I needed when I used to be in choir, but they are the wrong shade for me (need white white, not creamy white) and they aren’t a good length. :/
Haha, yes! That jewelry and accesories part of Walmart is so dangerous! Jessica and I were in there a few weeks ago and the light-weight scarves were calling to us. 😉
Rachel, you know me too well — I love scarves. ‘Specially pink ones, right? 🙂
You probably know this verse already, but it seemed fitting, considering this post is about beaded necklaces. Song of Songs 4:9 🙂
Oh, I didn’t even go into that, Jessiqua, but great point! Heirloom pearls are very precious.
And I didn’t remember that verse, either! Thanks for reminding me. 🙂
My mother gave me my great grandmother’s triple string of cream colored faux pearls on my wedding day. I wore them with my dress, and it really completed my look. I hardly have worn them since, but they are still one of my most precious pieces of jewelry.
Elisabeth, I’m still on the look-out for one of those! Let me know if you find one, ‘k? 🙂
Ooh, maybe wearing a beaded necklace – or even a pearl necklace – would be lovely paired with my wedding dress for November!? *food for thought indeed*
If you did and I had the privilege of planting that idea in your mind, m’dear, I would die happy. 😉
I want a single, simply, elegant rope of pearls now! Not that I don’t like the idea of different kinds of beads – maybe even turquoise ones! – too. Just that I especially like that picture of the gitl with the rope of pearls. So elegant! 🙂 Thank you for such a fun, practical post!