Once reserved for old Hollywood starlets and prim wedding portraits, pearl jewelry is experiencing a massive revival. In 2025, this classic gem isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. From red carpets to street style, celebrities are proving that pearls can be edgy, gender-neutral, and totally contemporary.

Whether you’re seeing them stacked over graphic tees, draped with sleek eveningwear, or reimagined as statement earrings, one thing’s clear: pearls have shaken off their traditional reputation and become a fashion essential again.

Read on to learn what it is that makes pearls stand out, find ideas for how to wear them yourself, and answer how do oysters make pearls.

The A-List Pearl Fans Redefining Luxury

If anyone deserves credit for making pearls cool again, it’s Harry Styles. Since his solo debut, Styles has famously woven pearls into his androgynous looks—from single-strand necklaces to layered chokers, worn with lace shirts or oversized blazers. He’s turned a classic symbol of elegance into a playful, subversive accessory embraced by fans of all genders.

Rihanna is another pearl champion, sporting them with everything from dramatic couture to sleek streetwear. She’s been photographed in oversized pearl drop earrings, multi-strand chokers, and even pearl-encrusted sunglasses. Her approach is maximalist but modern, pairing pearls with bold makeup and edgy silhouettes.

Zendaya, the red carpet’s reigning style queen, takes pearls in a fresh direction. Think minimalist pearl studs, sculptural rings, and sleek hairpins that deliver just enough vintage nod without feeling stuffy. Her pearl looks strike that perfect balance of timeless and youthful.

Even global superstars like BTS have embraced pearls. Jungkook, Jimin, and V have all worn pearl necklaces onstage and in photoshoots, pushing the gem firmly into unisex fashion territory and inspiring millions to follow suit.

Why Pearls Feel Fresh Again

So, what makes pearls the breakout jewelry star of 2025? Fashion experts point to a few key factors.

Gender-Fluid Styling

Pearls lend themselves perfectly to gender-fluid styling. No longer coded as “ladies’ jewelry,” they’re now seen as a way to play with masculine and feminine elements in a single outfit. That versatility resonates with younger generations embracing fluid fashion choices.

Sustainability

Pearl sustainability matters. Natural pearls, when responsibly farmed, have a far smaller environmental footprint than many mined stones. Consumers who care about ethical sourcing find pearls an appealing, more ocean-friendly alternative.

Modern Design

Finally, pearls adapt beautifully to modern design. Today’s jewelers are creating unexpected shapes, chunky silhouettes, and mixed-material designs that feel anything but old-fashioned.

How Are Pearls Made?

Part of what makes pearls so special is their natural origin. Unlike most gemstones that require cutting and polishing, pearls are created inside oysters and mussels over time. When an irritant enters the shell, the mollusk coats it in layers of nacre—the luminous substance that gives pearls their iconic glow.

If you’re curious about how pearls are made, there’s an entire world of sustainable farming, careful harvesting, and natural beauty to explore. Understanding their formation only adds to their modern appeal, connecting wearers with nature in a tangible way.

How to Wear the Trend Yourself

The best thing about the pearl revival? You don’t need celebrity stylists to make it work. Pearls are more accessible than ever—and easier to style.

• Mix with casual basics: Throw on a single pearl strand with a white tee and jeans for an instant upgrade that feels both effortless and intentional. Pearls add polish to laid-back essentials like denim jackets, linen trousers, or even your favorite sneakers. It’s the perfect way to balance classic elegance with everyday ease, making your outfit feel curated without trying too hard.
• Layer fearlessly: Combine delicate pearls with chunky chains, beads, or colorful cords for a playful, maximalist vibe that’s completely modern. Don’t be afraid to mix metals or textures—the contrast is what makes layered jewelry look personal and cool. Pile on bracelets or necklaces to create an eclectic, vacation-ready stack that tells your own style story.
• Go minimal: A pair of sleek pearl studs or a sculptural ring is timeless yet current, offering a subtle nod to the trend without overwhelming your look. Wear them with a tailored blazer, a slip dress, or even a crisp button-down for a touch of understated luxury. Minimal pearl accents are the kind of pieces you’ll reach for again and again, no matter the occasion.

To start building your own collection, look for pearl jewelry that spans classic strands, modern drop earrings, and everything in between.

Bonus Tip: Make It Your Own

Pearls are at their best when they reflect your personal style. Don’t be afraid to mix vintage heirlooms with modern pieces or experiment with unexpected pairings. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or adding polish to everyday wear, pearls offer endless ways to stand out while staying true to yourself.

The 2025 Forecast: Pearls Are Here to Stay

This isn’t just a passing trend. Designers continue to innovate with pearls, celebrities keep pushing styling boundaries, and the public is rediscovering their beauty in fresh ways. In a world craving authenticity and sustainability, pearls feel like the perfect fit—natural, versatile, and endlessly personal.

So if you haven’t already, now’s the time to join the modern pearl renaissance. From the stage to the street, they’re set to be one of 2025’s defining jewelry stories.