The cord necklace was one of the defining jewelry trends of the Spring/Summer 2026 season. The pendant-on-cord silhouette appeared across the runways in a variety of shapes and sizes, everywhere from Michael Kors and Ralph Lauren to Dries Van Noten, Gabriela Hearst, and Celine, and even at emerging labels like Zankov in collaboration with New York jewelry designer Presley Oldham. With Gucci also continuing the look in its forthcoming Fall 2026 collection, the message is clear. The cord necklace is not just a passing trend but a modern classic in the making.
Ralph Lauren, Gabriela Hearst, Michael Kors Collection, Celine
Although the style traces its origins back centuries, the cord necklace entered high fashion in the 1970s when Elsa Peretti introduced sculptural pieces, most notably her Bean design, worn on simple cords. The look gained even greater traction in the 1990s and was embraced by style icons such as Kate Moss and actresses including Kate Winslet, Drew Barrymore, and Alicia Silverstone, who wore the trend both on and off the red carpet. Today, a new generation of celebrities including Jennifer Lawrence, Zoë Kravitz, and even Martha Stewart continue to champion the style.
Part of the appeal of the cord necklace lies in its versatility. The piece lends itself easily to layering and styling, grounding statement pendants and proving that bold jewelry does not need to be reserved for eveningwear. On the runway, Michael Kors styled it with desert-ready looks, while Ralph Lauren paired it with pieces suited for the seaside, both highlighting the effortless ease of the cord necklace. Celine offered a more polished approach, styling the piece with classic black tailoring. Off the runway, it pairs just as easily with crisp white T-shirts and relaxed blouses as seen by the street style set, making it a natural addition to your everyday wardrobe staples. Whether in shells and stones, gold or silver plate, sterling silver, or solid 14kt gold and above, cord necklaces feel equally modern and remain accessible across a range of price points. Below, find 18 of our favorite options to take your look to the next level.
Ralph Lauren Shell Pendant Necklace
Michael Kors Leather Wrapped Necklace
Sophie Buhai Large Full Moon Pendant
Khaite Medium Lotus Pendant
Jennifer Fisher Dagger Necklace
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Bean
Hunting Season Tagua Necklace
Tory Burch Shell Necklace
Eliou Minnow Wrap Necklace
J.Crew Grommet Necklace
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Monica Vinader Aria Necklace
Lizzie Fortunato Museo Cord Ii
Jaclyn Bloomfield is a New York based multidisciplinary fashion editor, stylist and creative consultant with over a decade of experience in the luxury fashion and fine jewelry markets. Her goal has always been to be the voice of the brand—communicating its unique perspective and positioning through compelling visual narratives that balance commercial strategic intent and awe-inspiring creativity in equal measure. Prior to working with Town & Country as a fashion editor, Jaclyn has held senior positions at Editorialist and Luisaviaroma and contributed to several top magazines. When she is not working, you can catch her going to shows and dancing the night away. Follow her journey at @jaclynbloomfield .
