The Very Millennial “Ugly” Necklace Trend Is Back And Here Are 11 Ways To Style It In 2026
Gen-Z may have dismissed the chunky necklace trend as “cringe” and “ugly,” but millennials wore it best the first time around. Now, in 2026, this bold statement piece is making a major comeback and it’s better than ever. Here are 11 fresh ways to style it for today
Carrie Bradshaw would absolutely approve of what’s happening right now. The return of the chunky necklace!
Chunky Necklaces Are So Back In 2026
Back in the golden era of Sex and the City, Carrie Bradshaw didn’t just accessorize, she was a full-blown walking fashion mood-board, shaping trends season after season. And among the chaos of tulle, Manolos, and oversized flowers sat the crown jewel of her chaos: the chunky statement necklace.
Fast forward to 2026, and yes, Gen-Z may have rolled their eyes at our “extra” phase, but guess what? The drama is back, the necklines are louder, and we’re ready to serve looks again.
So here’s your fashion-savvy guide to rocking chunky necklaces this summer without looking like you time-travelled (unless that’s the vibe, in which case, respect).
11 Stylish Ways To Wear A Chunky Statement Necklace
The Classic White Tee Upgrade
Nothing says effortless cool like throwing a bold, oversized necklace over a plain white tee. Think chunky gold chains layered over an oversized tee with denim shorts. It’s effortless, undone, yet still unmistakably runway-ready, like you didn’t try, but absolutely nailed it anyway.
Pro style tip: The chunkier the necklace, the better. Consider going for a chain-link design for a bold, stylish edge.
Bejewelled Drama With Slip Dresses
Bring out your inner Carrie. A slinky satin slip dress paired with a crystal-heavy, borderline blinding necklace? Yes. Always yes!
Pro style tip: If you want to really blow away your partner, I’d suggest going for a nude-coloured slip dress (yes, Carrie-coded again!).
Linen Meets Metal
Summer means linen, and lots of it. But instead of going minimalist, clash it beautifully. Pair breathable linen shirts or co-ords with thick metallic chokers or layered chains.
Pro Style Tip: Don’t be afraid of colours.
Bikini To Brunch (Trust the Process)
Chunky necklaces at the beach? Absolutely. Layer a shell-inspired or resin chunky piece over your bikini top and throw on a sheer shirt. Suddenly you’re not just at the beach, you’re ready for brunch with the girlies.
Pro Style Tip: Choose waterproof or resin-based statement jewellery so it holds up to sun, salt, and sweat.
Button-Down, But Make It Fashion
Steal-from-the-boys shirts are having their moment again. Unbutton slightly, pop the collar, and let a bold necklace peek through.
Pro Style Tip: Extra points if it’s a multi-layered chain situation.
Go Maximal With Prints
Florals, stripes, abstract chaos, the works! Don’t hold back. Pair loud prints with equally loud necklaces. The trick? Commit fully.
Pro Style Tip: Half-measures look confused. Full drama looks intentional.
The Power Suit Remix
Yes, even in summer! Lightweight suits paired with chunky necklaces deliver boss energy with personality.
Pro Style Tip: Swap the inner shirt for a bralette and let the necklace do the talking.
Resin And Colour Pop Pieces
Not everything has to be gold or silver. Think chunky resin necklaces in citrus shades, translucent pastels, or funky shapes.
They scream summer, gelato, and “I’m fun, but also stylish.”
Pro Style Tip: If you’re a first-timer, start with pastel shades before you find out just how much you’re open to experimenting.
Layer Like You Mean It
One chunky necklace is great. Three? Iconic. Mix textures. A thick chain, a beaded strand and a pendant piece.
Pro Style Tip: It shouldn’t match perfectly and that’s the whole point.
Also Read: The Rise, Ruin, Redemption Of Coco Chanel
Over Dresses With Volume
Puffy sleeves, tiered skirts, exaggerated silhouettes, just bring them on! Chunky necklaces help anchor the look so you don’t float away into cottagecore oblivion.
Pro Style Tip: A stacked pearl necklace might just be the ultimate finishing touch.
The “I’m Not Trying Too Hard” Tank Look
Ribbed tank, tailored trousers, and a bold necklace – basically quiet luxury’s slightly louder, slightly nosier cousin who always shows up looking better than expected. It’s simple, but the necklace makes it feel styled, not accidental.
Pro Style Tip: If I were you, I’d pair the tank top with light weight denim high waist culotte jeans.
So…Why Are We Obsessed Again?
Because maximalism feels fun again. After years of clean-girl minimalism and neutral palettes, we’re craving personality. And honestly? Millennials never really stopped loving this trend. We just waited for the world to catch up again.
Gen-Z can call it cringe. We’ll call it iconic.
Also Read: Top trends from Milan Fashion Week Spring/ Summer 2026