Alphabet necklaces have become a jewellery staple for industry insiders, we’ve rounded up the most stylish options to shop now.
The alphabet jewellery trend burst onto the fashion scene in 2018, when every industry insider desperately tried to get their hands on (old) Celine’s viral initial letter pendant. The desirable chunky brass pendants set off a trend that has since gone totally mainstream, and is still going strong in 2021. One part sentimental, one part gloriously narcissistic, alphabet necklaces have a unique staying power of never going out of fashion.
Since Celine’s sell-out version, designers have been putting their own spin on the trend: Louis Vuitton delivered an art-deco kind of version, Chloé’s gold charm has a partially crinkled effect inspired by a piece of foil jewellery that creative director Natacha Ramsay-Levi’s son made for her, and Oscar de la Renta went all-out ornate. It wasn’t long before of the moment labels such as PD Paola and Bar jewellery joined in on the offering too.
While some necklaces need an air of ceremony around them (pearl chokers we are looking at you), an alphabet necklace is a piece you can wear without occasion, and one that easily works with any existing pieces.
So whether you’re in the market for a subtle addition to your neckline or something more stand out, we have rounded up the most stylish alphabet necklaces out here.
Go forth and adorn.
Harfi
Harfi’s handmade 18ct gold vermeil initial and birthstone necklace gives you the chance to personalise your jewellery (twice!). And you can feel good about your purchase because the brand is 100% ethically sourced and produced – employing and paying artisans from developing countries a fair price for their craftsmanship.
Zara
Best alphabet necklaces: Zara Zara’s new alphabet pendants are already flying off the virtual shelves. The sterling gold-plated silver styles are delicate enough to wear as your new everyday chain.
Shop gold-plated sterling silver chain with medallion at Zara, £27.99
Kimaï
Best alphabet necklaces: Kimaï Made from 18k solid recycled and carefully studded with lab grown diamonds, the ‘forever necklace’ by sustainable jewellery brand Kimaï is one you’ll want to cherish for… well, forever.
Otiumberg
Best alphabet necklaces: Otiumberg This little dainty pendent can be added onto your favourite chain. Crafted from recycled gold, it’ll be the perfect addition to any outfit.
PD Paola
Best alphabet necklaces: PD Paola Using mixed coloured zircona stones, PD Paola’s colourful necklace will give your neckline a pretty pick-me-up.
Pacharee
Best alphabet necklaces: Pacharee Made up from tiny fresh-water pearls, Pacharee’s alphabet necklace is a standout sentimental statement. Wear yours with a simple white shirt for maximum impact.
Not On The High Street
Best alphabet necklaces: Not on the Highstreet Fans of Schitt’s Creek will know that Alexis is a big fan of this jewellery trend. Add your own Rose finishing touch via Not On The High Street’s affordable version.
Shop initial necklace by Charlie Boots at Not on the High Street, £22
Chloé
Best alphabet necklaces: Chloé The mixed textures of Chloé’s offering make for a unique investment piece. Team yours with chunky gold hoops.
Accessorize
Best alphabet necklaces: Accessorize Part of Accessorize’s ‘Z’ collection, this simple necklace is the perfect layering tool.
Shop gold vermeil initial pendant necklace at Accessorize, £39
Bar Jewellery
Best alphabet necklaces: Bar Jewellery Bar Jewellery’s alphabet necklaces were designed by hand ‘writing’ each individual letter using molten wax that is then cast in solid silver.
Shop alphabet necklace at Bar Jewellery, £94
Oscar de la Renta
Best alphabet necklaces: Oscar de la Renta Leave it to Oscar de la Renta to bring some glamour to our necks. These ornate pieces will immediately elevate even the simplest of looks.
Shop Oscar de la Renta gold-plated crystal necklaces at net-a-porter, £250
Melissa Odabash
Best alphabet necklaces: Melissa Odabash Whether gifting to yourself or gifting to someone special, Melissa Odabash’s Swarovski necklace will add some necessary sparkle to any jewellery box.
Shop Melissa Odabash Swarovski Crystal Initial Pendant Necklace at johnlewis.com, £40
Lizzie Mandler
Best alphabet necklaces: Lizzie Mandler Lizzie Mandler’s 18kt gold Deco alphabet charm is handcrafted to a minimalist silhouette with a tiny baguette-cut diamond. Buy now and wear forever.
Shop Lizzie Mandler Deco diamond alphabet charm at matchesfashion.com, £330
Alex Monroe
Best alphabet necklaces: Alex Monroe Alex Monroe fans will know the brand for its cult bee necklace, but its the sweet intricate alphabet letter that we’ve got our eye on.
Shop Alex Monroe gold-plated floral letter at libertylondon.com, £135
Images: Getty / Courtesy of brands