Fall is the perfect time to hit reset on your wardrobe and splurge on a few new accessories. Necklaces are a foolproof way to update your look with a fresh style statement for the season. Let us be your guides through the ever-evolving world of jewelry with this primer on some of 2023’s top necklace trends.
This year, the focus is on a fusion of bold statements and subtle sophistication. From chunky chain necklaces to delicate charm designs, we’re certain that everyone can find something on this list that resonates with their unique style.
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Chunky Chain Necklaces
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Medallion Necklaces
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Minimalist Necklaces
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Charm Necklaces
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Station Necklaces
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Y Necklaces and Lariat Necklaces
Chunky Chain Necklaces
Embrace your edgy side with a chunky chain necklace. These bold pieces have recently made a triumphant return to the forefront of fashion. They’re perfect for anyone seeking an eye-catching accessory that can be paired with just about anything.
If you think all chunky chains look alike, think again! Jewelry designers have been having fun with this trend. Beyond oversized links, you can find chains adorned with padlocks, toggle clasps, choker-style rings and even pendants. When it comes to the chains themselves, there is plenty of variety to be found: paperclip links, oval links and, of course, Cuban links are all popular picks for a chunky chain necklace. Some styles play with texture or feature diamond accents to spice things up a bit.
These necklaces are also perfect anchor pieces for a layered necklace stack. But whether you opt for a single thick chain or layer multiple pieces, chunky chain necklaces are all about embracing individuality and confidence.
Medallion Necklaces
Drawing inspiration from historical and cultural symbols, medallion necklaces have taken center stage in 2023. Think pendants, but bigger, bolder and circular.
Medallions can be as plain or as intricate as you’d like. They may be simple circles of gold, or they may be studded with diamonds or colored gemstones. Some medallions feature intricate carve designs or cutouts. Many medallions nod to the style’s historic roots with rustic textures, designs meant to imitate old coins, or symbols with ancient significance. Other common medallion motifs include compasses, zodiac signs, stars and suns. Another great piece for layering, the medallion serves as a focal point for your daily jewelry look.
Silver, white gold, rose gold or yellow gold–whichever metal you choose for your medallion necklace, it’s sure to turn heads. That being said, yellow gold certainly seems to be the hottest option this year.
With a touch of mystique and a nod toward the history of jewelry, these necklaces can be as personal and symbolic as you’d like. Medallion necklaces make it easy to embellish your ensemble.
Minimalist Necklaces
In stark contrast to chunky chains and intricate medallions, minimalist necklaces continue to captivate those who appreciate understated elegance. They may seem to occupy two totally different worlds, but the truth is, minimalist necklaces can beautifully complement bolder styles.
The "less is more" mantra resonates strongly in 2023, with delicate and simple necklace designs stealing the spotlight. These necklaces feature clean lines, subtle accents, and may showcase a single gemstone or a small pendant. The versatility of minimalist necklaces is a major draw, as they seamlessly elevate both casual and formal looks. Layer them in your necklace stack to add some sparkle without distracting from your focal point statement pieces.
For those who prefer timeless pieces that can be worn every day, minimalist necklaces offer the perfect balance of grace and sophistication.
Charm Necklaces
Charm necklaces are redefining personalization in the world of fashion. Interestingly, the same trend holds true for bracelets, as charm bracelets have rocketed back onto the scene. But these aren’t the charms you remember from your childhood. Modern charm jewelry has gotten a major upgrade. You can find these elevated charms in a range of designs, from delicate depictions of your zodiac sign to gemstone-studded renderings of your initials.
The fun lies in the mix-and-match concept, where wearers can add or swap charms to suit different occasions or moods. They’ve gotten a makeover since your childhood, but charm necklaces still hold the same power, allowing wearers to curate their own stories. Add unique charms that hold sentimental value, express your passions, commemorate important events, or keep close a reminder of someone special.
Charm bracelets, too, have been making a comeback. If you’re looking for a pair of quirky accessories, these may be just the ticket.
Station Necklaces
Station necklaces have always been a symbol of sophistication. They emanate a certain high society glamor, effortlessly combining simplicity with luxury. These necklaces feature evenly spaced embellishments or gemstones along a delicate chain, creating a look that is both refined and visually engaging.
Station necklaces are incredibly adaptable, capable of adding a touch of class to an everyday outfit or enhancing the elegance of formal attire. The trend's appeal lies in its ability to strike a harmonious balance between minimalism and opulence. It’s a great go-to for those seeking a necklace that seamlessly transitions from day to night.
When we think of station necklaces, we tend to think of diamonds. However, other gemstones also make beautiful station necklaces. One common alternative to the diamond station necklace is the pearl station necklace. Like its diamond counterpart, the pearl station necklace boasts evenly spaced gemstones along a delicate chain for a stunning visual effect.
Y Necklaces and Lariat Necklaces
Y necklaces are named for their shape: they feature a long, decorative drop down the center of the chest, which may or may not be enhanced with a pendant or other adornment at the end.They are closely related to lariat necklaces. You may hear people refer to lariat necklaces and Y necklaces interchangeably, though technically there is a difference: lariat necklaces have no clasps, while Y necklaces may have clasps.
Y necklaces and lariat necklaces are both flattering, elegant styles. They embody classic glamor, but many modern designers have given them a twist by playing with textures and chain styles. The flowing effect of Y necklaces, like this one from Roberto Coin, and lariat necklaces make them a gorgeous choice as the longest component in a necklace stack. They also pair well with formal wear, particularly those dresses and blouses with plunging necklines. 
Find Your Trendy Necklaces at Bradley Gough Diamonds in Fort Wayne
The necklace trends of 2023 are a testament to the diverse nature of fashion and personal style. Whether you're drawn to the bold allure of chunky chain necklaces, the understated elegance of minimalist pieces, or the quirky individuality of charm necklaces, this year's hottest options offer something for everyone. These necklaces have evolved beyond simple accessories. They’re physical embodiments of our personalities, passions and tastes.
Hopefully, this guide to 2023’s trendiest necklace styles gave you some inspiration for your fall wardrobe. Whatever necklace speaks to you–even if it’s not on this list–we’d love to help you find it at Bradley Gough Diamonds. Visit our Fort Wayne, Indiana store to chat with our expert associates and explore our full collection of necklaces. We’ll help you find the necklaces that bring out your inner glow, so you can shine through the next season and beyond.