9 Ways to Add Vintage Touches to Outfits with Pearls

One of the best things about fashion is that there are no rules. So you can mix and match different styles to create a look that's uniquely you. And vintage style is one of the many popular choices to mix and match with other outfit looks.

Adding vintage pieces to your wardrobe injects class and sophistication into any outfit. But how do you incorporate vintage into your look without looking like you're stuck in the past? The answer is with pearls.

As a fashion stylist, I can assure you that pearls are a great way to add a vintage touch to any look. Timeless and chic, they can be worn in a myriad of fashions.

But sometimes, it can be hard to know how to wear them modern and stylishly. Well, have no fear! Below are several tips on how to add vintage touches to your outfits with pearls. Try out some of these ideas and see which ones work best!

What is a vintage look?

Vintage fashion is a popular style that encompasses many looks from different eras. While the term can be used to describe clothing, accessories, and home decor from any era, it is most commonly associated with styles from the 20th century.

One of the most defining features of vintage fashion is that it is often recycled or reused. It can be seen in the popularity of thrifting and vintage stores and the trend of upcycling old clothes. Vintage fashion is also often characterized by a sense of nostalgia. Many people who wear vintage styles are drawn to the aesthetic of a bygone era.

People love vintage fashion for a variety of reasons. And celebrities are not an exception. For example, Kirsten Dunst is often spotted in vintage dresses with floral patterns or simple, feminine silhouettes. She has said in interviews that she loves shopping for vintage clothes because it allows her to find one-of-a-kind pieces that you can't find in stores.

Lana Del Rey is another celebrity with a penchant for vintage fashion. She often wears retro-inspired dresses and tops and has even been known to sport vintage-style hair and makeup. Besides, Lana Del Rey often wears pearls to enhance her style.

What are the main elements of a vintage look?

One of the most distinctive features of vintage fashion is the use of bold, bright colors. Vintage clothing often features eye-catching prints and patterns, making even the simplest outfit stand out. Try pairing a printed dress with a solid-colored cardigan or jacket to create a vintage look.

Another key element of vintage fashion is high-waisted skirts and pants. This look was popular in the early 1900s and has come back in recent years. Pair a belt or sash around your natural waistline to create a high-waisted look. Doing so will help to accentuate your curves and give you a more hourglass-like figure.

Try incorporating some vintage accessories to add a touch of vintage glamour to your outfit. A fur stole, or feather boa is a great way to add old-school elegance to your look. And don't forget about the power of a well-chosen piece of jewelry. A statement necklace or pair of earrings can take your outfit to the next level.

Still, one of the most popular vintage accessories is pearls. Pearls were a staple of many fashionable women's wardrobes in the early to mid-twentieth century. Today, they are still worn to channel old Hollywood glamour.

Why are pearls classic fashion?

Vintage fashion is all about timeless style and elegance. And what could be more elegant than a string of pearls? Whether you wear them as a necklace, bracelet, or earrings, pearls can instantly transform your look. They add a touch of sophistication and can make even the most simple outfit look chic.

Pearls have a classic beauty that never goes out of style. Pearls can be worn with just about any type of clothing, from casual to formal. They are also perfect for any occasion, whether you're attending a wedding or going to the office.

Besides, each pearl has its beauty, making your vintage look unique. When light hits a pearl, it is reflected in a way that creates a stunning sheen. It is what gives pearls their characteristic iridescent luster.

And because they come in so many colors, shapes and sizes, there's a pearl for everyone. So if you're looking to add something special to your vintage wardrobe, consider investing in some pearls. You won't regret it!

How to choose the right pearl jewelry for a vintage look?

Regardless of your style, vintage jewelry can add a touch of class and elegance to any outfit. But how do you know if a piece is truly vintage? And more importantly, how do you choose the right vintage pearl jewelry to achieve your desired look? 

Here are a few tips:

Color

When it comes to vintage pearl jewelry, the colors are often more subdued than today's brighter shades. Vintage pearl jewelry is often more delicate than today's pieces. Think creamy whites, pale pinks, and light grays. These colors will give you a more elegant, vintage look.

So, if you're looking for a piece that will make a vintage statement, you may want to consider something with less colorful accents.

Size

Regarding vintage pearl jewelry, size matters, so smaller, delicate pearls are more classic in appearance, while larger pearls have a more modern look. If you're going for a vintage-inspired look, opt for 6mm or smaller pearls.

Keep in mind that the size of the pearl will also affect the piece's overall look. So, choose smaller, delicate pearls for a more classic look.

Shape

When shopping for vintage-inspired pearl jewelry, keep an eye out for pieces that feature these more traditional shapes. You can find them in necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more. Choose a shape that you love and that flatters your own personal style.

Pearls come in all shapes, from perfectly round to slightly off-kilter. For a vintage look, choose pearls that are more oval or teardrop-shaped. These shapes were popular in the early 20th century and will give your pearl jewelry a timeless look.

Clasp

Pay attention to the clasp on your necklace or bracelet. A vintage piece will likely have a more intricate clasp than a modern one. Look for a clasp with some design, such as an etched flower or a filigree pattern—the more detailed, the better.

Also, make sure the clasp is in good working condition. Nothing ruins a vintage look more than a piece of jewelry that won't stay put.

Style

When choosing pearl jewelry for a vintage look, style is everything. You'll want to choose classic and timeless pieces with a touch of elegance. Think about the era you're trying to emulate, and choose jewelry that would have been popular during that time.

When creating a vintage-inspired outfit, the right pearl jewelry can make all the difference. Here are a few examples of how to style pearls for a vintage look. For example, a pearl necklace and earrings are classic choices that will never go out of style. You can also add a touch of vintage glamour with a pearl bracelet or brooch. 

Another option for creating a vintage-inspired outfit is to choose a floral pearl corsage. This can be worn on the wrist or as a brooch. Besides, you can choose a ring with a single pearl. This can be worn with various clothing items to create a vintage look.

These are just a few things to remember when shopping for vintage pearl jewelry. With these tips, you can find the perfect piece to complete your vintage-inspired look.

How to pair vintage pearls

Vintage pearls are a timeless and elegant piece of jewelry that can instantly add sophistication to any outfit. However, because they are often seen as more formal jewelry, many people are unsure how to wear them in a way that is both stylish and appropriate for the occasion.

Here are some pairing instructions and matching rules so that you can wear your vintage piece with confidence:

A classic combination: A khaki trench coat with a pearl brooch 

This timeless look can be worn for any occasion, whether dressing up for work or going out on the town. The key is to keep the pearls small and delicate, so they don't overwhelm your outfit.

A casual yet chic outfit: A turtleneck sweater with a pearl necklace

This is the perfect outfit for running errands or grabbing coffee with friends. The pearls add just the right amount of elegance and vintage to the look.

A glamorous night out looks like A black dress with pearl earrings. 

This is a stunning outfit for a date or girls' night out. The earrings add a touch of glamour and classic to the outfit, while the black dress keeps it elegant.

A preppy twist on a classic: A white button-down shirt with a pearl bracelet

This is a great look for work or casual occasions. The bracelet adds a bit of personality and elegance to the outfit without being too flashy.

An unexpected combination: A denim jacket with pearl earrings 

This is a fun and unique way to wear pearls. The earrings add just the right amount of edge and vintage to the look, while the denim jacket keeps it casual.

A summertime staple: A sundress with pearl earrings 

This is a perfect outfit for any summer event, whether a picnic or a day at the beach. The earrings add a touch of classics to the look, while the sundress keeps it casual.

A timeless combination: A pearl necklace with a little black dress

This is a classic look that can be worn for any occasion. The key is to keep the pearls small and delicate, so they don't overwhelm your outfit. The little black dress is a timeless piece that will never go out of style.

A modern take on a classic: A pearl choker with a t-shirt 

This is a great look when you want to dress up your t-shirt and jeans. The choker adds a touch of elegance and vintage to the outfit, while the t-shirt keeps it casual.

A fun and flirty look: A pearl bracelet with a denim skirt

This is a great outfit for a casual day out or running errands. The bracelet adds a touch of femininity and elegance to the look, while the denim skirt keeps it casual.

Following these tips, you'll be sure to turn heads and receive compliments whenever you wear your vintage pearls.

Bottom line

Vintage touches are a great way to add personality to your outfits.

Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or want to add a touch of vintage glamour to your everyday style, pearls can help you achieve the look. 

These ideas should inspire you to add old-world elegance to your outfits. Have you tried any of these methods? Do you have another suggestion for incorporating vintage pearls into an outfit?