Leighton Meester Puts a New Spin on Classic Pearls

PHOTO OF LEIGHTON MEESTER COURTESY OF NUMÉRO NETHERLANDS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS PHIL CHESTER & SARA BYRNE @PHILCHESTER @SARAKBYRNE

BEST KNOWN FOR her role on Gossip Girl for the run of the show, Leighton Meester has since grown into several movie roles, modeled for top brands and released her own album. A recent shoot for Numéro Netherlands magazine reveals how a modern actress can turn a Valentino frock and classic pearl necklace — reminiscent of the faux one that Audrey Hepburn made famous in Breakfast at Tiffany’s — into something the new generation of jewelry collectors and enthusiasts might want to own and wear on various occasions.

Not to mention it is a stunning Assael three-row Japanese Akoya pearl necklace with an 18K white gold and diamond clasp, and those in the industry know that Assael works with only the finest of pearls.

PHOTO OF PEARL NECKLACE COURTESY OF ASSAEL

For the past five to 10 years, pearls have been making a comeback in unconventional designs – sometimes edgy, other times feminine yet with a unique twist in composition. But there is something about a beautifully graduated, perfectly matched pearl necklace that is familiar and breathtaking at the same time. Such a piece will outlast trends and may remind us of a piece that our grandmothers or mothers wore. See from this perspective, pearls link us to fond memories of generations of women in our families.

I would wear this necklace with much of my wardrobe.

What about you?

Beth Bernstein

Beth Bernstein is a published author of three books and jewelry and fashion expert with 18+ years experience. A broad knowledge of the history of jewelry and fashion coupled with a background in "the story", writing, trends, design concepts has earned Beth a proven track record.