Many would agree that fashion trends return in cycles, and this is certainly true the style of the 90s. With the resurgence of certain trends, thanks in part to recent pop culture moments – including the renewed interest in Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s iconic wardrobe after the FX miniseries Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette – and the return of silhouettes like capris and cropped trousers, it’s clear that many of us want to once again emulate the elegant, sophisticated style of decades past.
And although 90s fashion is often characterized by minimalism, there was also a preference for it striking jewelry.
To discover today’s trends, I looked back at some of our favorite stylish celebrities from that era, and it’s clear how timeless certain silhouettes really are. Remain to this day sparkling diamond jewelry – from hanging earrings to necklaces with a pendant – together with classic pearl necklaces and glittering tennis chains are the epitome of glamour.
For a more minimalist approach, such as that of Bessette Kennedy or Winona Rydera single piece of jewelry, whether delicate stud earrings or a timeless tennis chain, seemed to be the only accessory needed.
Wondering how you can shop those same looks now? Read on and discover the jewelry you’ll want to wear again and again.
These ’90s jewelry trends are making a comeback this summer
Glamorous stud earrings
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Sometimes a chic pair of earrings the only piece of jewelry you need for a polished, stylish look – and in my opinion, it’s a beautiful way to draw attention to the eyes. Whether you opt for statement pearls surrounded by sparkling diamonds, like Winona Ryder wore to the 1996 John Huston Award for Artists Rights ceremony, or Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s minimalist earrings at the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation dinner in 1999, the right earrings can ditch the necklace and show off your cleavage. A little body shimmer oil doesn’t hurt either!
Beautiful drop-shaped jewelry
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Whether it’s pavé diamond earrings that reach the collarbone, like the striking pair Mariah Carey wore to the 33rd Annual Grammy Awards in 1991, or Cindy Crawford’s glamorous combination of oversized diamond earrings and an equally striking pendant, teardrop shaped diamond jewelry are a guaranteed way to steal the show and ensure all eyes are on you.
Today, you can buy similar, maximalist styles that mimic the same opulent look, or opt for smaller, more subdued options.
Multi-strand pearl necklace
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Pearl necklacesoften finished with a striking piece of jewelry or pendant in the middle, reminiscent of the 1990s. During my research, I discovered a ton of style icons embracing this trend, including Princess Diana, who repeatedly wore a stunning seven-strand pearl necklace topped with an oval sapphire and diamond brooch. She famously paired the necklace with her “revenge dress” in a moment, and the jewelry itself was a gift from Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Motherbefore Diana’s wedding. Other fans of the trend included actresses Drew Barrymore and Halle Berry, and singer Whitney Houston.
Today you can find both vintage-inspired and more modern, wearable interpretations of the look that still offer an elegant and extravagant way to spruce up your evening outfit.
Timeless hoops
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Hoops never go out of style – and their appeal lies in their versatility. Diamond-studded styles instantly take a date night or festive outfit to the next level, while more minimalist pieces can be worn casually or dressed up, depending on your mood. They also come in almost every size imaginable, from large, striking earrings that you can practically wear as a bracelet to small, delicate ones. earrings that are close to the earlobe.
The statement necklace
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A statement necklace is a truly attractive focal point for any outfit, especially when it features diamonds or semi-precious stones. Draw all the attention with a stunning chandelier-style diamond necklace, reminiscent of the one Kate Moss wore to the VH1 Fashion and Music Awards in 1997. Or take Jennifer Aniston’s more extravagant approach with a multi-strand tennis necklace finished with a diamond pendant. And if you prefer to keep it simple, a striking pendant or a set of charms will also suffice.
Laura Tarafa is a Commerce Writer at ELLE. She is responsible for writing fashion and beauty stories, assisting with production and research tasks, and providing administrative support. Laura grew up in North London and later moved to Dallas. She studied Design Management and Marketing at the University of North Texas and later worked for Kohl’s Corporation. In addition to her professional experience, Laura has personal aspirations in interior design and art. When she’s not rearranging spaces or doing digital illustrations, you can find her at her local coffee shop, window shopping, or taking her dogs for walks in the park.
