I’m not claiming to be the trendiest person around, but I do follow a lot of fashion influencers on Instagram, and right now, they’re all showing off some seriously cool necklaces. This new trend is all about layering, with lots of coins, medallions, angels, rosaries, lockets, pendants, crosses, and dainty chokers, mostly in gold.
You know, take a snap of your necklace stack, maybe add a grainy filter for effect, and you’ve got yourself a “cool girl neckfie.”
About the crosses, though—they’re literally everywhere. I think they look awesome, but since I’m Jewish, wearing a cross feels a bit off for me. I actually have a cousin who works in fashion and loves wearing crosses despite also being Jewish, and it’s totally her thing. I’m curious what you all think because I’m torn—I love many of the cross designs but not sure if it’s right for me.
Moving on to necklaces in general, finding the perfect layers can be a real hunt. I’m not a fan of pre-bundled sets because they feel a bit tacky (though having just one clasp would be a timesaver for untangling!). So, I’ve gathered some of my favorite necklaces right now, some of which I own, and others that I can’t wait to get!
1. Reliquia Star Sign Necklace: I usually don’t treat myself to jewelry, but I saw this on a friend and couldn’t resist. It’s not a major splurge either, and it’s adorable and well-made! I’m realizing I should invest more in my necklaces because I often forget to take them off in the shower, which ruins the cheaper ones. This one is shower-proof and such a chic zodiac piece—not your average cheesy style!
2. Ania Haie Long Coin Necklace: Coin necklaces are super trendy and perfect for layering. I got this one recently, and I love that it’s long and easily adjustable with a sliding bead (if that makes sense). I like layers at different lengths—a choker, two mid-lengths, and a long one. This is my go-to long necklace.
3. Heart Locket: I had my eye on this locket for a while and dropped hints to Zack until he got it for Valentine’s Day with a photo of him and the dogs inside. It’s adorable and helps me calm down when I’m anxious. It’s from JC Penney, which might be surprising, but I searched everywhere. It has a retro vibe that I’m obsessed with.
4. Gold Shark Tooth Necklace: Etsy is my favorite spot for jewelry. I just got a dainty gold shark tooth necklace that’s perfect for layering. It’s not a full-length necklace but isn’t a choker either—it’s the perfect middle length for my layers. I love the look of a gold shark tooth.
5. Rosary Drop Lariat: Back to my dilemma—can I wear a rosary as a Jew?? Because I love this style. Rosaries are one of my top long layering pieces, and I really need to know if it’s okay for me to wear one because I’m in love with this look.
6. Tiny Star Choker: I initially had a different star choker in mind, but it sold out. So, naturally, I turned to Etsy and found the same one for a third of the price, which I bought right away. A choker is essential for the layered look, and I adore a dainty gold star design.
—Cool Girl Layering Necklaces Collection