Wearing a different type of jewelry is one of the easiest – and most affordable – ways to shake up your look. If you’ve been curating a new Pinterest board of outfit ideas for 2026, you’re guaranteed to spot at least one common trend: gold necklaces for women. Effortlessly chic, always on trend, and perfect for taking you from the beach to the bar and everywhere in between.
A chunky gold necklace is the ultimate starter piece if you’re a silver girlie taking the plunge and experimenting with gold jewelry for the first time. It’s universally flattering for all skin tones and complexions, and the perfect way to get a luxury look on a budget. A chunky chain necklace doesn’t have to break the bank, and I’m sharing some of my go-to Cult of Sun pieces and the best ways to style them for every season.
Layered Pearl Necklace
Necklace layering is a nostalgic throwback to the early 2000s with a slight bohemian feel. Styling a gold necklace with a pearl necklace feels contemporary and trendy right now as pearls are having a major moment.
These aren’t the traditional pearl necklaces your grandma wore. They’re synonymous with beach chic and feel ethereal, often oversized in shape to give them an otherworldly look.
If you want to make a statement - ‘Pearl Obsession Necklace’ might be the right one to go for. It’s the ultimate ‘it girl’ necklace that encapsulates the contemporary pearl trend by giving a chunky gold necklace a more feminine feel with a baroque pearl.
For a timeless option, channel your classy side with the more classy ‘Pearl Drop Necklace’. Keep it simple for days at the beach or layer with your favorite choker for a fun twist. It’s the perfect base piece for styling with another pearl necklace or a chunky gold necklace.
Chunky Gold Necklace
When I’m getting dressed up for a night out, I want my jewelry to complement my outfit, rather than distract from it. A chunky gold necklace is the perfect way to showcase a fresh tan, and it’s a styling secret that every cool girl uses to elevate their night-time looks. It adds a touch of luxury to your outfit and balances the look of a plunging neckline. A chunky gold necklace works for any occasion, whether you’re heading out for date night, grabbing cocktails with your girlfriends, or exploring a new city on vacation.
‘Naya’ is my top recommendation for the chunky gold necklace to kickstart your collection. If you prefer a quirkier look, try the ‘Drama’ necklace with its paperclip-inspired silhouette. No statement gold necklace is complete without a pair of chunky gold earrings. I love to style the ‘Ava’ earrings with the ‘Naya’ necklace as my cheat code for looking put together without spending hours on my hair and makeup.
Abstract Gold Necklace
Abstract jewelry is on the rise, drawing inspiration from the beauty of the raw world around us. At Cult of Sun, the beach and Mother Nature are our favorite muses. Shells, rocks, and natural surfaces are some of the most popular silhouettes and textures that jewelry designers are experimenting with right now.
Most gold necklaces for women incorporate abstract elements, from natural metals to melted shapes. The ‘Creased Pendant Necklace’ is a classic piece you’ll wear every day and makes the perfect gift at under $50.
Gold Coin Necklace
Do you find yourself staring at jewelry in a museum exhibition and wishing you could own it? You're not alone. A vintage looking gold necklace has been trending in the last few years and is personally one of my go-to styles.
A coin necklace is one of the oldest styles of gold necklaces for women. You can have your own little piece of history with our ‘Aztec Coin Necklace’. This understated necklace is one you’ll never take off. Style it solo or layer with a strand pearl necklace for an elevated look or to transition your outfit from day to night.
Refresh your closet or discover new styles with these three gold necklace trends for women. These pendants are easy to style solo or layer together for a unique layered look. Whether you’re a fan of a pearl necklace or stick strictly to gold, have fun with these trends and make them your own.
FAQs About Gold Necklaces for Women
Have you got a question about gold necklaces? You might find your answer on our blog, or you can send us a DM on Instagram.
What is the best gold necklace to buy?
A chunky gold necklace is one of the best options, as you can style it solo or layer it with other necklaces. While it’s a statement piece, you can make a gold necklace feel more wearable by pairing it with a neutral outfit or styling it up for a beach wedding.
What is the most flattering gold necklace for women?
A vintage-inspired coin necklace is the most flattering gold necklace for women, and you wear it as a pendant or style it with pearls, a chunky chain, or a choker.
What is the best length for a woman’s gold necklace?
An 18” necklace is the most popular length for women’s necklaces as it will sit around your collarbone. If you’re looking to jump on the layered necklace trend, or prefer to wear a higher necklace, you may want to try a 20” necklace instead.
How can you wear jewelry to look classy?
Jewelry is the secret to elevating any outfit, making even a white t-shirt and jeans feel classy. You can use a chunky gold necklace as a statement piece or incorporate classic pieces, like pearl earrings and understated gold bracelets.
Want to learn more about the latest jewelry trends and styling? Check out these posts:
Trend alert: gold pearl earrings
Pearl necklaces but make it fashion
5 must-have jewelry sets for any occasion
