More Vivienne Westwood, Less Vivian Kensington.
From Makeup to Jewelry: Pearls Don't Have to Be Boring, Because Neither Are You!
I’m not exactly a pearls girl, okay?
In the traditional sense! Of course that begs the question, “Why devote an entire post to the topic?” Since you like to be nosy, I do believe there are always exceptions to the rule and pearls have taken on a whole new identity. I’m talking pearlescent angelic makeup to irregular shaped pearl jewelry mixed with gemstones.
These Aren’t Your Grandmother’s Pearls.
No offense to your grandmother of course, but pearls have got a bad rap. I know we’re not in the ‘meet the family’ stage of dating yet so let’s keep that between us.
Regarding jewelry, it’s not about the perfect strand of shiny pearls paired with a twinset. No thank you! Think more Vivienne Westwood, less Vivian Kensington. I love a Legally Blonde reference.
Before we continue, there is something I need to address. It will make us closer, I promise. Okay, so there is a little part of me that thinks some modern pearl jewelry can look a little naff.
I can feel you judging, but let me continue. You know those pearls that look a bit…plastic? I’m going to assume you’re nodding. Luckily, I’ve found fabulous options in the fashion and fine jewelry world that are worth lusting over. Plastic not included.
Pearls can be interesting!
No matter what type of jewelry girl you are, there is a pearl for you. One of the newly opened jewelry stores on Madison Avenue is Brazilian heritage brand, Sauer. If you find yourself uptown I highly recommend you go. You may even be lucky and see me at Sant Ambroeus. I personally love when pearls are mixed with diamonds in a unique way like their Agni necklace. Speaking of, my favorite drink and my favorite stone (champagne diamonds) unite when paired with tiny pearls set in a hefty yellow gold setting a la Nada Ghazal. If you want an edgier diamond option, try the Tiffany Titan pearl ring designed by Pharrell.
For a moodier vibe, I adore the rich dark grey color of Prounis’ pearl earrings. I could see myself wearing them with a black leather trench as they catch the candlelight in a dimly lit bar. Yes, I did just create that faux scenario for myself but it sounds appealing. Maybe our next date? Actually, remind me to send this to my husband. If you’re already engaged however, I suggest Sophie Bille Brahe’s pearl earrings. Perfect for during and after the wedding. There will be more on wedding jewelry in an upcoming newsletter, so strap in! Finally, you know I’m not one to succumb to trends but baroque pearls punctuated the Bottega Veneta SS25 runway so if you are a fashion girl I suggest you get ahead. Their pearl pendant necklace adds a sculptural element to your neck. If you prefer an earring, At Present’s lapis and baroque style earrings make a statement that won’t break the bank.
Okay, have I convinced you yet? Either way, you should probably subscribe.
Pearlescent makeup isn’t a trend, it’s a state of mind.
I’m sure you’re wondering where I’m going with the makeup aspect of this. Remember on our first date when I told you that I would smell good? Well I would also look luminous. We’ve all heard of dewy makeup, but particularly for Winter I love pearlescent makeup enhanced on the skin, eyes and even lips. Yes, it was trending on Tik Tok last year and while I was annoyed the world caught on, I’m happy to report this type of makeup isn’t just a trend. It’s a lifestyle.
Who wouldn’t want to look radiant every day of the week? Sign me up.
So how do we achieve peak pearlescent luminosity?
The goal is to add makeup that creates a reflective and slightly iridescent finish that gives a pearl like effect. I’m sure you’re thinking this seems a little O.T.T but calm down for a moment. Pearlescent makeup can adapt to your existing makeup routine and works for all skin types and skin tones. For textured or mature skin, I would focus on adding luster to the high points of the face, like the tip of the nose, brow bone and cupid’s bow. If you look at my Substack profile picture you’ll get a sense of what I’m talking about. My little secret part on the face to highlight is on the inside of the orbital bone. Quite chic. For darker complexions pick products with warmer iridescent colors like gold, copper and bronze like Fenty’s Killowat Highlighter in Afternoon Snack/Mo' Hunny. Since we’re visual learners, makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes’ tutorial beautifully illustrates how to get pearly, radiant skin for a more everyday look.
I’m sure even your grandma would approve.
Did I spend my whole evening putting together the below graphic? Yes, I did. I also currently use or have tried all of these products. I’m the girl at Sephora with nine different color swatches on her hand figuring out what looks best in different lighting. You should know some products did not make the cut! Luckily for you, I figured this would be an easier way to illustrate all my favorite pearlescent products in one place.
Don’t say I don’t love you.
Do you see what I mean now? Pearls are far from boring whether it be makeup or jewelry. I hope you think of me next time you’re in the mood for pearls. Or just in general.
It would be really cute of you to leave a comment or share my pearls of wisdom with your friends. See what I did there? Either way we’ll see each other next Friday. I love that we schedule our dates now. Look at us bonding!
XO XO
Grace
I wear pearls all the time! Not the long strands my Mom would go for, but a short strand or choker, layered with another short chunky gold chain/choker (kind of matching the scale), or a tennis necklace... It's kind of fun just over a crew-neck sweater. Also love the Saie "Glowy Super Gel" at Sephora - can mix into foundation or use it as a highlight. Really light and dewy but not too much...
I knew I’d love this as soon as I saw Vivienne Westwood in title, and now I’ll be stopping by Sephora to turn myself into a tiny pearl.