The reign of boho-chic continues. Call it the Chemena Kamali effect (we do) or the air of retro nostalgic gripping Gen Z at present (think Olivia Rodrigo’s rather controversial babydoll frocks), but la vie bohème is set to be our collective moodboard for spring/summer 2026.
The easiest way to embrace the movement? Accessories. From slouchy suede bags to fabulous fringing, vintage-inspired pieces are peppering the runway and high street alike.
Jewellery trends are clearly shifting from minimalism to overt maximalism. According to Astrid & Miyu, Google searches for ‘chunky silver necklace’ are up 60 per cent in the past three months and ‘chunky statement necklace’ have increased by 80 per cent.
Hence, beaded necklaces are set to be a summer hit. Gloriously chunky and drenched in nostalgic summer vibes, the colourful jewels have become a mainstay on the accessories scene.
Take it from both the upper echelons of luxury (Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel, Etro, Carven et al) and the hottest jewellery brands stores in town, the gems are the easiest way to inject a hefty dose of personality into your spring/summer wardrobe this season.
Which is why they are hot property in the costume department. The unwavering presence of beaded necklaces in the grand canon of film is testament to the accessory’s magic. Leading female figures with a flair for la bohème often reach for the piece, with familiar TV favourites such as Phoebe Buffay coolly championing the chunktastic silhouette.
What unites the characters who opt for a touch of statement beading? Individuality. From Daryl Hannah in Splash (a childhood favourite) to Jenna Rink in 13 Going on 30, beaded necklaces have come to represent fashionistas who aren’t afraid to stand out. And therein lies their power.
Artist Frida Kahlo poses for a portrait at her studio in Mexico City (c.1940)
Playful and quirky, these beaded beauties are very much here to stay. Shop our top picks below.
Best beaded necklaces to shop:
Aesop Jade Necklace
YSSO
Crafted in Greece, YSSO's beautiful jade-dotted necklace is a luxurious option that's set to inject your arsenal with vibrant colour this summer.
Blanca Beaded Necklace
Lizzie Fortunato
Gloriously chunky and featuring a myriad of sun-soaked hues, Lizzie Fortunato's charming beaded jewel is peppered with large acrylic beads, vintage-esque gold-tone coins and bright turquoise stones. Perfect for enhancing a tan.
Ariel Necklace
Nude Project
Spanish brand Nude Project is never short of delightful accessories to add to your seasonal archive. We love the rainbow-toned beading of the brand's adorable Ariel Necklace.
Parma Necklace with Semi-Precious Stones
Rixo
Rixo is our first port of call when it comes to kaleidoscopic beaded beauties. Featuring semi-precious stones with a boho shell pendant, this joyful necklace is set to become a summer staple piece.
Veda Beaded Necklace
Jennifer Behr
Jennifer Behr continues to lead the charge when it comes to beaded treasures. The designer's Veda Beaded Necklace hoops elegantly around the neck, boasting pale green carnelian stones that are said to spark courage.
Bead Pendant Sterling Silver Hoop Necklace
Timeless Pearly
A contemporary take on ancient beading techniques, this silver hooped necklace is heading to the top of our jewellery wish list. Slip on with ease and let the wooden and crystal-embellished beads take centre stage.
The Chloé Plage Woven Necklace
Chloé
Brilliantly colourful and brimming with personality, Chloé's gold-toned show-stopper is finished with a sleek twisted design, resin accents and beaded embellishments.
Felice Red Jade and Turquoise Beaded Necklace
Ottoman Hands
Carefully handmade with recycled materials, Ottoman Hands' red jade and turquoise stunner is a delicate option for those seeking a subtle hint of bohemian flair.
Beaded Coin T-Bar Necklace
Mint Velvet
High street fiends, listen up. Mint Velvet is stocked to the brim with cute beaded pieces to snap up this season - including this golden clip-on with a timeless T-bar accent.
Fruit Salad Bead Necklace
Pura Utz
Hand-crafted by skilled artisans in Guatemala, Pura Utz's vibrant necklace is dotted with white glass beads that form luscious fruit charms - the sweetest summer staple.
Sunset Red Beaded Necklace
Astrid & Miyu
A failsafe option that's perfect for gifting (or keeping for yourself), Astrid & Miyu's crimson jewel will elevate any everyday look with a light frosting of romantic pink quartzite beads.
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