Jewellery trends have boomed in recent months with friendship bracelets stealing the limelight thanks to Taylor Swift fans, while Pandora’s elevated essence collection captivated many a fashion editor and Thomas Sabo’s gummy bear collection only amplified our current love for the Y2K aesthetic. Plus, we caught the return of the cord necklace thanks to Instagram influencers Monikh Dale and Lucy Williams.

Now, however, it seems another style is quickly growing in popularity and it’s perfect for summer: seashell jewellery. Spotted on the spring/summer 2024 catwalks at Schiaparelli in the form of a giant gold-tone lobster necklace, shell earrings and coral-like cuffs, and at Collina Strada, who accessorised plenty of looks with silver-tone starfish, the striking jewellery style certainly adds a fun flair to fashion while also looking incredibly elegant. 

As with any statement jewellery, it’s one of the easiest ways to liven up an outfit, making any look appear much more impressive, even if it’s just that same old T-shirt and jeans underneath. 

According to Google Trends, searches for starfish and gold shell necklaces have increased by a huge 5,000%, starfish earrings by 250% and sea shell earrings by 60% in the last 90 days. So, it’s clear the sea-themed accessories are calling our name, and there seems to be no short supply of options available.

Small seller sites such as Etsy have long been a great source for handmade jewellery finds – shells included – and many small brands are now sharing their wares on Instagram as well. When it comes to seashell jewellery, Oh C’est La Vie immediately caught our eye with handmade necklaces and belts studded with tiny shells and starfish-like shapes, many of which you can watch them make through snappy Instagram videos. And taking the lead from the runway, plenty of high street brands are also stepping into the sea-themed jewellery style, including M&S, Anthropologie and Bimba Y Lola.

So the real question is whether you opt for starfish or shells, gold or silver and how large you want your mermaid-like accessories to look – we’ve got plenty of options below to get you started. Although, ironically, most of them won’t fare too well in saltwater, so best remove them before going swimming. 

Images: Daphine; courtesy of brands