Oddly enough, I’ve been into pearls as of late. Which is strange, considering in my mind they’re the bastion of all things antiquated and stodgy. I know there’s the whole Chanel standby of layering so many pearls on top of each other, but for me, most pearl necklaces seem more like a form of sartorial strangulation than anything else. However, there are a couple exceptions. Notable exceptions, in fact.

One of my favourite pieces I’ve found this summer is from the Ossington Ave. mainstay, I Miss You Vintage. [It’s a short sleeved, turtle-necked crop top comprised entirely of pearls. Armor heavy, and certainly off-kilter, it’s a piece best saved for those moments when you feel like indulging your inner eccentric heiress (read: Daphne Guinness). The lesson here? Look for pieces that use pearls in a non-traditional way. Whether you can find boleros covered in the stuff, or your own crazy crop top, it’s a statement piece that’ll look primly punk.

The second item that’s been in constant rotation in my wardrobe is another find from I Miss You Vintage (except it’s their new Victorian concept shop). A little more cute than kooky, it’s an incredibly on trend 1940’s pearl collar necklace. You can pair something like this with an adorable skirt/top combination for an easy touch of elegance, or with a long sleeved black silk shirt and leather trouser for a more monochromatic vibe.

If you find yourself unable to commit to wearing pearls on your body, why not wear them on your head? Wear a necklace like a garland, or glue larger pearls to bobby pins and barrettes to add some drama to your ‘do.