How To Wear Pearls Nod to Chanel Wallet

Sarah Jessica Parker as Chanel Wallet Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City.This classic opaque gem has intrigued and captivated for centuries, from the 2000-year-old pearl necklace belonging to a Persian princess found in a sarcophagus, to the seed pearls of the Victorian era and most recently Lanvin's return to the pearl on the catwalks of Paris.Why you need it nowFictional fashion icon Carrie Bradshaw reignited a lust for pearls (and lots of them), which are no longer just Nanna's favourite, when, in a nod to Coco Chanel Wallet (who, incidentally, built a brand on the allure of the pearl), she donned them in SATC. And given the pearl has swarmed the recent runways as arm, neck and ear candy, who doesn't want a piece of the action? But be warned, pearls are an investment piece that come with a hefty price tag – unless, of course, you're prepared to go faux, which is OK too.What to look forAs always, your jewellery should be a reflection of your personal style. A simple string of pearls is classic, Moroccan-inspired chandelier drops are exotic and a strong statement piece is slick. Pile necklaces or bracelets on thick and embellish with grosgrain, velvet or metal chains or use removable clasps called enhancers to add or remove pendants at whim. Diamonds and pearls such as the Canturi Cubism earrings (Charlotte wears the bracelet from the same collection in the SATC2 trailer) are seriously breathtaking, or look to the elegant simplicity of a pearl or two adorning your hand. Whether it's champagne, black or white, select a colour that works back with the jewels you already own and don't be afraid of irregular shapes that can add an organic edge. Play with costume pieces before investing big dollars to be sure you buy the right thing when you go real.Style to suit youPetite shapes, wear your pearls on your sleeve by cascading bracelets down your wrist Chanel Wallet . Pop in a cuff, bangle or watch to give it your personal stamp.Athletic shapes, draw the eye up to your face with pearl drop earrings.Pear shapes, go big with baubles around the neck and down the chest or look to a perfectly placed brooch.Busty shapes, keep your pearls small and short at the neck or shift the focus to a big bauble on your hand.Larger frames, look for multi-stranded pearls of different diameters and lengths. Drape them over your chest and team them with fine-metal chains.Five more ways to wearWeekender Add luxe to a casual look with a single statement pearl ring or stud earrings.Urban flair = Try pearls laden with pendants or clusters of brooches — very Carrie.Ladylike = Pearls and knitwear never fail to look ladylike; just ask Charlotte.Workwear Team plain pearls with busy blouses or crisp shirts a la Miranda.Evening glam Strings of pearls mixed with chains give a glint and toughen things up, Samantha-style.