The original post is located at www.elle.com
Since I entered my 30s, quality jewelry has become more important than ever. What I put on daily is a personal choice—worn with the intent to showcase authenticity and the best parts of myself, rather than to try to be someone I’m not. And every piece that enters my closet—whether an item of clothing, jewelry, or a bag—needs to be super-versatile, wearable in a multitude of ways and for a variety of occasions.
This wasn’t always the case. Until recently, I spent most of my life purchasing one-off event jewelry, costume jewelry, and inexpensive earrings and necklaces that would tarnish after a few wears. They always had an expiration date in my head. In contrast, now I’m always seeking longevity and ease, pieces that are classic and enduring. Inside my jewelry box you’ll find the likes of simple gold hoops and diamond studs—items I know I’ll feel my best in.
That’s why Pandora’s freshwater-pearl pendant necklace was love at first sight. Classic, beautiful, and elegant, it features a 14K gold-plated chain and a solitary cultured freshwater pearl in the center.
Pandora
And it’s quickly become my go-to collier de jour for everything from office meetings and video conferences to date nights and special occasions. I style the dainty necklace with a simple white tee and pair it with my classic tweed lady jacket and jeans. It sits perfectly around the collarbone, always in view but never distracting. And its three loops allow me to easily adjust the length depending on how I’m planning to wear it. (I especially love to layer it with my tennis necklace for a modern touch.)
Recently, I paired the pendant with one of my favorite LBDs for a night out at one of Manhattan’s most refined and exclusive dining venues. With my hair pulled back in a sleek bun, it was the dash of charm I needed to pull the entire look together—and the source of not a few compliments as well.
Pandora Treated Freshwater Cultured Pearl Collier Necklace
Having established its place of honor in my own jewelry box, the Pandora pendant has of late also presented itself as a prime gifting option; it would make a beautiful commemoration for a sister or a friend marking a special occasion, like a graduation or a wedding, for instance. And with Mother’s Day around the corner, I’ve decided to give it to my own mother, as a wardrobe staple all her own. She’s a no-fuss kind of woman and rarely treats herself, but I can already envision her wearing the pendant with her sweet breezy blouses during the summertime, or a cozy knit cardigan during the fall. She lives on the other side of the country, so it will serve as a subtle reminder that I’m always with her, and she is with me.
