When it comes to our favorite fashion trends of 2022, pearlcore is pretty up there. If it hasn’t been all over your Instagram feed or Pinterest board just yet, stick with us and we’ll break it down for you. We’re no strangers to trend recycling, from dreading the return of skinny eyebrows to loving small baguette bags. Pearlcore is the same kind of callback to an earlier time, but in this case we’re throwing it all the way back to the 1920s and 1930s.
Pearlcore Is the Dainty Throwback Trend That Would Make Grandma Proud
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
What Is Pearlcore?
Pearlcore combines the sophistication of ‘20s fashion and the Hollywood glamour of the ‘30s to create a thoroughly modern aesthetic in 2022. From pearl details on shoes, sweaters and more to classic jewelry pieces, this trend can read as bold and sexy just as well as it can dainty and feminine. According to Pinterest's annual Pinterest Predicts report, "In 2022, people of all ages will embrace iridescent accents in their homes, in their jewelry boxes and even as nail art." The platform has seen increases in searches for pearl jewelry, naturally, but also pearl gowns, pearl nails and even pearl-themed parties (whatever that means).
Here, find 16 of our favorite pieces to get in on the pearlcore vibe while it’s hot.
1. Cece Imitation Pearl Peter Pan Collar Sweater
Pearlcore meets dark academia? We’re here for it. Not only is the collar decorated in pearls, but the sleeves also have a pearl button to tie it all together.
2. Stuart Weitzman Goldie Loafers
Loafers are a classic staple for a reason: They elevate pretty much any outfit, whether it’s slacks and a blazer for work or a flouncy minidress for play. The pearls on this pair are a vintage but trendy touch we just adore, and this particular style is also available in a gorgeous tan hue.
3. Lunika Pearl Hoop Earrings
The pearl hoop layered through the gold hoop gives these earrings dimension for a more modern look. We would pair them with a simple outfit and pull our hair back to let these baubles shine.
4. Lulus All The Splendor Pearl Clutch
Pearl bags tend to look very bridal, but if paired with the right outfit, they’ll give off classy, regal vibes. Avoid wearing this bag with white (unless you are going for a bridal look) and pair it instead with a simple LBD or black faux leather pants and a black sweater.
5. Sunset & Spring Embellished Denim Jacket
An extravagant pearly denim jacket calls for a simple top and pants to let the decadent outerwear do the talking. This one is slightly oversized and has some distressing at the bottom for a bit of edge.
6. Anthropologie Hair Clip Set
Pop a few of these pearly clips on when you’re having a bad hair day or just need an extra accessory to complete your outfit. Stack different sized clips and bobby pins on top of each other for a little added interest.
7. Aqua Faux Pearl Shoulder Bag
This quilted bag is giving us major old Hollywood vibes. The pearl strap is a fun addition against the black stitching, and it’s large enough to hold the essentials: a phone, wallet, mask, lipstick, keys and maybe even a powder compact.
8. Karl Lagerfeld Pola Studded Chelsea Bootie
These booties are detailed with gold-trimmed pearls alternating with gold studs for a grungy yet still sophisticated vibe. Customers say these boots are a little tight in width, so you might want to opt for thinner socks.
9. Joolz By Martha Calvo Evil Eye Coin Pearl Necklace
Although this necklace looks stunning on its own, it’s also a great base upon which to layer multiple gold chains for a more everyday look.
10. Gorjana Parker Pearl Bracelet
A romantic pearl bracelet is a stunning accessory to add to your look whether you’re headed to the office or to date night. The gold ring clasp breaks up the pearl pattern nicely instead of a typical lobster claw.
11. Floerns Pearl Mesh Sheer Long Sleeve Blouse
The sheer, pearl-embellished sleeves of this blouse—which has nearly 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon—are so subtly alluring and unexpected.
12. Karl Lagerfeld Paris Cavan Embellished Leather Platform Sneakers
Pearl detailing creates a perfect balance on edgy, black platform sneakers. The platform is nearly two-inches high and the sole is aptly padded for comfort, meaning these will add a bit to your height without sacrificing comfort.
13. Majorelle Vivica Cardigan
This fuzzy, cropped cardigan is a delicate and sweet way to bring pearlcore to life. Though we like this piece with light-wash denim, we would love it with a pair of winter white trousers for a monochromatic vibe.
14. Steve Madden Zelle Heel
Elevate your evening look with these strappy pumps with a gorgeous string of pearls outlining the sole. We love how, even though the detailing is subtle, it makes a big statement.
15. 8 Other Reasons Pearl Shoulder Bag
If extra is your middle name, this all-pearl shoulder bag is right up your alley. We recommend only keeping larger items like your phone and a bigger wallet in this style, since the wide weave might cause small items like keys or lipstick to slip through the holes.
16. Anthropologie Embellished Headband
The large pearls decorating this twist headband will pretty much hairstyle look even cuter. It’s available in cream, brown and dark turquoise with matching pearls on each.