Seashells are summer 2018’s biggest jewellery trend

Think less tacky jewellery box and more grown up elegance, Sarah Young says this season's accessory is all about the beach

Look our for rounded conch shaped shells in tones of gold and silver (Getty)

If the last time you considered wearing shells was after hitting the souvenir shop during a seaside holiday in the ‘90s then it might surprise you to hear that they’re now a fully-fledged style statement.

But we’re not talking about the bargain basement, plastic variety.

Oh no, this time round they’ve had a coming of age to take on a more luxe, infinitely more opulent vibe.

First seen at Prada men’s spring/summer 2018 show, the chunky shell necklaces also made an appearance at Miuccia Prada’s womenswear offering for autumn/winter 2017 where they adorned mismatching bangles in clashing colours and were worn layered over ‘70s-style corduroy.

Ellery, Rosalind Shell-Drop Earrings, £201, Matches Fashion

Other designers infatuated with the seashell jewellery trend include Rosie Assoulin and Dolce & Gabbana.

While the former opted for a more laid-back take with delicate shell drop earrings, the latter naturally went all out with endless riffs on seashell embellishments from gold-laden earrings to mermaid worthy crowns.

Loewe, Gold-Plated Shell and Resin Necklace, £225, Net-a-Porter

This isn’t a trend reserved for the runway alone though. A quick browse of the high street or search on sites like Net-a-Porter or Matches Fashion proves that there are plenty of shoppable options available – some of our favourites come from Loewe, Ellery and Mango.

Isabel Marant, Thin Shell Cuff, £69, Farfetch

While you don’t have to spend much to get involved, the key here is to avoid anything too cheap-looking by opting for shells in gold or silver.

Don’t be afraid to layer pieces either, and always show them off by rolling up sleeves or wearing your hair tied back.

Elise Tsikis, Valos Shell Necklace, £165, Matches Fashion

Shell Pendant Necklace, £15.99, Mango