On January 20th, women everywhere put on their pearls in solidarity with Kamala Harris, the first woman inaugurated as Vice President of the United States. Basically, pearls are to Kamala Harris as a lace collar is to RBG. By now you probably know the story behind why Kamala Harris wears pearls to almost every significant event in her career. As a graduate of Howard University and a member of the sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha, which was founded at her alma mater, the founding members, known as the 20 Pearls, reflect her choice to wear pearls as a way to honor her affiliation with this sorority.

Harris’ choice to wear the pearls by jewelry designer Wilfredo Rosado was also significant. Like Harris, Rosado is the son of immigrant parents. The design of Australian South Sea pearls within large oval 18k gold links, accented with sparkling diamonds at regular intervals signifies the “theme of strength, combined with softness and a bit of glamour,” according to Rosado.

Pearls never did or will go out of style but Kamala Harris certainly has ignited many women to break out their pearls or shop for styles. Pearl necklaces expand way past the classic strand. Here are five looks using different pearl necklaces. And be sure to shop for more styles at the end of this post.

MODERN WAYS TO WEAR PEARLS

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For a simple finish to this basic zip-up-and-go dress by BOSS, I added this triple pearl pendant by Poppy Finch which is a nice alternative and simplified version of a classic strand. I finished the look with beige pumps by Marc Fisher.

Outfit #2

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You can embrace various ways, including pearls in a variety of colors and with a variety of stones. This Chan Luu multi-stone necklace is comprised of stones like abalone shell, labradorite, silver jasper, and rutilated quartz in addition to peacock pearls and green pearls. I styled this necklace with a camel blazer from J. Crew, Akris Punto black pants, a grey basic cashmere sweater from White & Warren, and cognac block heel pumps.

Outfit #3

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Freshwater pearls have less of a uniform appearance and can add some variety to your pearl jewelry. This double freshwater pearl necklace from Jennifer Behr has a more modern appearance in design and is perfect for someone who enjoys pearls but doesn’t like a traditional look in their necklaces. I styled it with a satin t-shirt style from Club Monaco under a grey cashmere cardigan from Saks Fifth Avenue and the same Akris Punto pants in black. I further finished the look with black booties from Louise et Cie.

Outfit #4

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This simple pearl pendant from Anna Beck perfectly fills in the neckline of this bottle green satiny blouse from Mango. A style like this is perfect when you want a light touch of a finish at the neckline. I styled the top with wide-leg trousers from Cos and use the same beige pumps as used in the first look.

Outfit #5

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Pearls can be the stars or they can be the background players. In this look, the pearls delicately accent the asymmetrical links in this necklace from Majorica. I added this necklace as a neckline filler for this wrap shirtdress from Winser and finished the outfit with the same cognac pumps as in the first look.

Shop for pearls

Looking for more pearl necklaces? Check out these additional styles.